During the retreat in the ceremony is generally held at night, it starts at 7pm and finish at 11pm, in a ceremonial space (like a maloka), lasts several hours, and is guided by a shaman and experienced facilitator (to take care of you or supporting you for some needing)
What to Do?
focus in Humility and Openness.
Listen carefully to the shaman/facilitator. Silently reaffirm your intention. Prepare your space (mat, blanket, purge bucket, toilet paper).
Respect.
Drink the dose offered to you (calculated based on your context). Remain silent and concentrate.
Surrender and Trust.
Allow, don’t resist: The key is to surrender to the medicine. Do not fight the visions, sensations, or purging.
Introspection and Focus.
Be the observer: Watch thoughts, emotions, and visions without judgment or attachment. Return to your intention if you feel lost.
Release and Acceptance.
Accept it: Purging is considered essential and is seen as a physical, energetic, or emotional release. Use the bucket discreetly.
Respect for Others’ Space.
Silence: Do not talk or interact with other participants unless it is an emergency or instructed by the shaman.
Receptivity to Healing.
Listen to the Icaros: The shaman sings ícaros (medicinal songs) that guide and protect the space, and often direct the healing process. Concentrate on the music.
Patience and Stillness.
Remain in your spot until the shaman closes the ceremony and indicates you may get up (usually at dawn).
During the Retreat (Between Ceremonies)
A retreat is not just the ceremony; the time in between is vital for Integration.
Rest and Silence: Sleep and rest a lot. Maintaining silence or talking as little as possible helps you preserve your energy and continue processing the experience.
Journaling and Reflection: This is the ideal time to write down your visions, insights, or key messages. The ayahuasca experience can fade quickly if not recorded.
Simple Eating: Strictly follow the post-ceremony diet (post-dieta) provided by the center (generally rice, vegetables, broths, without salt, sugar, or fats). This helps the medicine continue working and aids integration.
Nature: Spend quiet time in nature (walking, meditating, or simply sitting). This helps to “ground” the energy and information received.
Integration and Consultation: If the retreat includes psychologists or therapists, take advantage of sessions to discuss your experiences and begin to make sense of them in the context of your daily life.
Key Attitude
Trust: Trust the process, the medicine, and the guide.
Humility: Remember your role is that of a student; the plant is the teacher.
Be Kind to Yourself: The experience can be emotionally intense and challenging. Treat yourself with patience and compassion.
Ready to explore the healing power of ayahuasca as medicine? Contact us today to learn more about our retreats and how we honor this sacred tradition in the heart of the Amazon.