Silvana says, "I feel incredibly privileged to have been able to experience this wonderful healing retreat at From Gaia for You. Danilo and Ilse are very kind and welcoming, and I immediately felt comfortable, safe, and at ease." See more
Lisa says, "My experience at Sinchi Runa has been transformative, and I don’t say that lightly. I came for my first 3 day retreat in September 2023 and I had no idea what to expect (I’ve returned 2 more times, the last being March 2024)." See more
Rowena says, "Avalon have thought of everything with love and care. I felt genuinely welcome and safe whilst being guided through my stay - Not just the ceremonies, but every activity and integration too." See more
Anonymous says, "Die Anmeldung und der Kontakt verliefen wunderbar. Auch die Durchführung des Retreats und die Organisation des Teams waren ausgezeichnet. Ich möchte nicht zu sehr von meinen Erfahrungen mit Ayahuasca erzählen." See more
Marco says, "Boris and the entire team at APL delivered a very organised, professional and supportive experience. Everything from the pre-call to integration on site and even after care shows that APL takes great care and pride in their work - You really get the sense that these guys are switched on and love what they do." See more
Jordan says, "I want to thank you in this way too that you came in to our Country and helped us Heal , Learn , Listen to what the Plants can teach us about the world. It was a nice experience Ayahuasca with a Shaman from Peru without going to the Amazon." See more
Eduard says, "Wonderful atmosphere, caring and friendly people around. It was nice to be a part of it for a while. " See more
Claryn says, "This retreat has opened my heart to love and healed me in every possible way. I felt I shifted the ancestral trauma that had lived inside me throughout, even before, my life." See more
Marina says, "It was an unforgettable experience! I was totally green that's why I had a wrong perspective and my doubts but with help of Mira family I left being a new person - well, at least better version of me:) All members are very caring, kind, interesting people with experience and great knowledge." See more
Suzanna says, "This review is especially for the skeptic. I’m a 42 year old married woman travelling alone. I’m a yoga teacher and I have a 18 year old daughter who has an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is addicted." See more
Osama says, "Lovely team, a beautiful place to be where you can rest your mind and soul 🙏🏼" See more
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Having a clear intention before the ceremony can make an incredible difference in how your experience unfolds.
Maintaining psychophysical purity, or some form of dieta can go a long way in warding off unnecessary suffering once you drink.
Make sure that your intentions are not actually your expectations. It’s in your best interest to let go of the illusion of control.
Ayahuasca, often called the "vine of the soul," has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples of the Amazon rainforest. Its origins are deeply intertwined with the spiritual and healing practices of tribes like the Shipibo, Asháninka, and Quechua. The brew, made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of the Psychotria viridis plant, is not merely a substance but a doorway to a living tradition. It carries the wisdom of the rainforest, a wisdom that speaks in visions, emotions, and sensations rather than words.
In Europe, ayahuasca has found a new home, far from its ancestral roots. This migration has sparked both curiosity and controversy. While some see it as a bridge between cultures, others worry about the risks of cultural appropriation or dilution. The truth lies somewhere in between. Ayahuasca in Europe is neither a perfect replica of Amazonian traditions nor a wholly disconnected phenomenon. It is a hybrid, shaped by the values, laws, and spiritual hunger of a continent grappling with modernity. For those drawn to this path, it is essential to approach ayahuasca with respect for its origins. This means acknowledging the Indigenous stewards of this medicine and recognizing that their wisdom cannot be fully separated from the brew itself. At the same time, it is possible to honor the tradition while engaging with it in a way that feels authentic to one’s own cultural context. The key is to tread lightly, with humility and an open heart.
Europe offers a diverse array of ayahuasca experiences, from small, intimate ceremonies in rural retreat centers to larger gatherings in urban settings. The legal status of ayahuasca varies by country, with some nations allowing its use in religious contexts, such as within the Santo Daime church, while others impose strict restrictions. This patchwork of regulations means that seekers must do their homework, ensuring that their chosen setting aligns with both their personal values and local laws.
Costs can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred euros for a weekend ceremony to several thousand for a multi-week retreat. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it is worth considering what lies behind the price tag. Authentic facilitators often invest heavily in safety measures, experienced staff, and ethical sourcing of the brew. These factors, while not always visible, can make a profound difference in the quality of the experience.
Time commitment is another important consideration. A single ceremony can be transformative, but it is often just the beginning of a longer journey. Many find that integrating the insights gained from ayahuasca takes weeks, months, or even years. For this reason, some retreats offer extended programs that include preparation and integration support. These can be invaluable for those new to the medicine or dealing with complex emotional or psychological issues.
Safety is paramount when working with ayahuasca. The brew is powerful, and its effects can be unpredictable. A reputable facilitator will screen participants carefully, asking about medical history, mental health, and current medications. Certain conditions, such as heart problems or a history of psychosis, may make ayahuasca unsafe. It is crucial to be honest during this process, even if it means being turned away. The goal is not to exclude but to protect.
Ethical considerations extend beyond physical safety. A trustworthy facilitator will create a container that honors both the medicine and the participants. This includes setting clear intentions, providing a safe and comfortable space, and offering support before, during, and after the ceremony. It also means being transparent about their training and experience. While there is no universal certification for ayahuasca facilitators, a genuine guide will have a deep respect for the medicine and a commitment to ongoing learning.
Cultural sensitivity is another hallmark of an ethical retreat. This means acknowledging the Indigenous roots of ayahuasca and, where possible, supporting the communities that have preserved this tradition. Some retreats partner with Indigenous healers, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and compensated. Others may focus on creating a more localized approach, blending Amazonian practices with European traditions. Both can be valid, as long as they are done with integrity and respect.
An ayahuasca ceremony is not a passive experience. It is a journey into the depths of the self, guided by the intelligence of the medicine. The effects can vary widely, from vivid visions and profound insights to intense emotional releases and physical purging. This last aspect, often referred to as "la purga," is a natural part of the process. It is the body’s way of releasing what no longer serves, whether that be physical toxins, emotional baggage, or old patterns of thought.
For many, the journey begins with a sense of heightened awareness. Colors may appear more vivid, sounds more resonant, and emotions more palpable. As the medicine deepens its work, participants may encounter challenging emotions or memories. This can be unsettling, but it is also an opportunity for healing. The key is to surrender to the process, trusting that the medicine knows what it is doing. Resistance often leads to discomfort, while acceptance can open the door to profound transformation.
Integration is where the real work happens. The insights gained during a ceremony are like seeds; they need time, care, and attention to take root. This might involve journaling, meditation, or conversations with trusted friends or therapists. Some find that dietary changes, such as reducing processed foods or alcohol, help to maintain the clarity gained from the experience. Others may feel called to make larger life changes, such as ending a toxic relationship or pursuing a new career path. Whatever form it takes, integration is a vital part of the journey.
Ayahuasca is often portrayed as a quick fix or a magical cure-all. While it can indeed be transformative, it is not a substitute for the hard work of personal growth. The medicine can shine a light on the shadows, but it is up to the individual to do the work of integration. This process can be messy, uncomfortable, and slow, but it is also deeply rewarding. Another common misconception is that ayahuasca is inherently dangerous. While it is true that the brew carries risks, these can often be mitigated through proper preparation, screening, and support. The key is to approach the medicine with respect, humility, and a commitment to safety. When used responsibly, ayahuasca can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.
Finally, it is worth remembering that ayahuasca is not the only path to wholeness. For some, it may be a vital part of their journey. For others, it may not be the right fit, and that is perfectly okay. The true essence of spiritual growth lies not in any particular practice or substance but in the recognition of one’s own inherent completeness. Ayahuasca can be a mirror, reflecting back the beauty and wisdom that have always been there. But the reflection is not the source. The source is you.
The effects of ayahuasca typically unfold across distinct phases over 4-6 hours, though the full journey can last up to 8 hours for some people. Traditional Amazonian ceremonies usually begin in the evening and continue through the night, with the most intense period occurring 1-2 hours after drinking the medicine. The physical effects often start within 30 minutes, while the visionary phase commonly peaks between hours 2-4. After the main journey subsides, many experience a gentle "landing" period of 1-2 hours where insights continue to emerge. In traditional contexts, integration begins immediately after the ceremony and extends for days or weeks - this is considered an essential part of the medicine's work. Some retreat centers observe that certain participants may feel subtle energetic shifts for several days following a ceremony, though these are typically mild and manageable. Each person's experience with the medicine follows its own timing and rhythm. Traditional healers emphasize that the effects aren't limited to the ceremonial hours - rather, the ceremony opens a door through which healing and understanding continue to flow long after the acute effects have passed.