How to prepare for an Ayahuasca Retreat: A Step-by-Step Guide
Embarking on an Ayahuasca retreat is more than just a journey to a beautiful location; it’s a deep dive into the self, offering opportunities for profound insights and healing. However, like any transformative experience, the more you prepare, the more fulfilling and impactful your journey will be. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ready yourself for an Ayahuasca retreat.
1. Dietary Preparation
Ayahuasca works best when your body is clean. In the weeks leading up to your retreat, consider adopting a simple, clean diet. Avoiding processed foods, lowering caffeine and salt consumption. Avoiding alcohol, and any recreational drugs.
At LaWayra we recommend:
At least 4 weeks before the retreat stop taking SSRI antidepressants.
1 week before ceremony, but if possible more stop consuming:
any medications: antibiotics, any psychoactive medicine.
Obviously consult your doctor before that.
Stop consuming weed, alcohol as well as any other drugs.
For 2-3 days before the ceremony, but if possible more avoid:
- Fermented foods
- aged foods
- junk food
- red meat (optionally)
- overly ripe fruit
- milk products
- spicy food
- citrus fruit.
It is also recommended to lower salt and caffeine consumption.
At least 2 days before the ceremony avoid having sex.
2. Set Clear Intentions
Why are you seeking this experience? Reflect on your motivations. It could be healing from past traumas, seeking clarity about life decisions, or spiritual exploration. Clear intentions can guide your journey.
If you need help setting intention read this post
3. Mental & Emotional Preparation
Engage in practices like meditation, journaling, or counseling. These can help you confront and process any emotions or thoughts that might arise during the retreat.
Here is a meditation I recorded for you that you might want to try
4. Physical Fitness
While you won’t be running marathons, being in good physical shape can enhance your experience. Simple exercises, yoga, or nature walks can help.
5. Pack Wisely
Bring comfortable clothing especially plenty of change clothing. Bring insect repellent even though we don’t have too much mosquitos at LaWayra there still are some.
Bring a jacket cause nights at LaWayra tend to be chill, or you can buy one of our lovely ponchos
6. Educate Yourself
The more you know about Ayahuasca, the better. Read books, watch documentaries, or attend workshops.
If you want to see my reading list check out this post
7. Respect the Process
Ayahuasca is not a ‘quick fix’. Itās a journey that requires respect. Be prepared for both challenging and uplifting experiences.
8. Build trust
Ayahuasca can be daunting. And in order for your healing process to take place you will have to let go and trust your facilitators. Luckily at LaWayra in our years of work and tens of thousands scups served we have collected a lot of reviews that can help you trust us. Check out our Google reviews
Or watch video testimonials on our Instagram
Feeling ready to embark on Ayahuasca journey? Book your spot here.