IMG20230401172914 01 01 01

The Role of the Shaman in Ayahuasca Ceremonies

Hello everyone, I’m Sam Believ, founder of LaWayra Retreat near Medellin, Colombia. Today, I want to discuss a vital component of ayahuasca ceremonies: the role of the shaman. Understanding the shaman’s role can provide insight into the profound and transformative experiences that occur during these ceremonies. Shamans are the spiritual guides and healers who lead […]

The Role of Nature and Setting in Ayahuasca Healing

The Role of Nature and Setting in Ayahuasca Healing

Hello everyone, I’m Sam Believ, founder of LaWayra Retreat near Medellin, Colombia. When it comes to the healing power of ayahuasca, the environment in which the ceremony takes place plays a crucial role. Today, I want to explore the significance of nature and setting in ayahuasca healing and how it enhances the overall experience. Ayahuasca, […]

Two shamans practicing ayahuasca. Father and son. Traditional roots of Ayahuasca

Traditional Roots of Ayahuasca in Amazonian Cultures

If you’ve ever wondered about the origins and cultural significance of Ayahuasca, let’s take a step back in time and explore its deep-seated roots in Amazonian traditions. Ayahuasca, the “vine of the soul,” isn’t just a brew; it’s an embodiment of centuries of tradition and wisdom, passed down through generations of indigenous communities in the […]

group of people performing ayahuasca ceremony

Colombia – The Cradle of Ayahuasca

When people think of psychedelic tourism and Ayahuasca – Peru often comes to mind. But actually Colombia is the cradle of Ayahuasca. Let me take you on a brief trip through the history of psychedelic tourism and Ayahuasca in Colombia and tell you how it’s making a powerful comeback today. The Early Days: Richard Evans […]

What is Rapeh? An image of a facilitator applying rapeh.

What is Rapeh? Delving into an Ancient Amazonian Tradition

What is Rapeh? When many people hear of spiritual journeys in the Amazon, they often think of ayahuasca. However, there’s another lesser-known, yet deeply revered practice: Rapeh. Often pronounced as ‘rapay’ or ‘hape’, this sacred shamanic snuff holds an integral place in the rituals of South America’s indigenous tribes. The Basics At its core, Rapeh […]

Fire and Its Role in the Ayahuasca Ceremony

Fire and Its Role in the Ayahuasca Ceremony

Hello everyone, I’m Sam Believ, founder of LaWayra Retreat, located near the serene surroundings of Medellin, Colombia. Today, I want to delve into an elemental aspect of our ayahuasca ceremonies: the role of fire. Fire, in many cultures and spiritual practices, symbolizes transformation and renewal. In the context of an ayahuasca ceremony, its role is […]

Two shamans practicing ayahuasca. Father and son. Traditional roots of Ayahuasca

Ayahuasca and Religion: A Harmonious Connection

I’m Sam Believ, founder of LaWayra Retreat near Medellin, Colombia. If you’ve ever been curious about ayahuasca and its effects, you’re not alone. This powerful plant medicine has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures for healing and spiritual growth. Today, I’d like to provide a comprehensive overview of what you can expect from an […]

IMG20231106160711 01

Is Drinking Ayahuasca Contradicting Your Religious Beliefs?

In recent years, the use of Ayahuasca has gained attention in various spiritual and religious circles. This traditional Amazonian brew is known for its potent psychedelic effects and has been used for centuries in ceremonial and medicinal contexts. Many find that Ayahuasca doesn’t contradict but rather enhances and deepens their personal connection to their faith […]

Medicine music and it's importance during Ayahuasca cermony

Medicine Music and Its Importance During Ayahuasca Ceremony

Hey friends, I’m Sam Believ, founder of LaWayra, our ayahuasca retreat near Medellin, Colombia. Today, I want to talk about something close to my heart: the role of medicine music during our ayahuasca ceremonies. Music is a powerful tool that guides and enhances the ayahuasca experience. At LaWayra, we carefully curate our music to support […]

man performing ayahuasca while group people meditate

What is a Taita?

Who is Taita? Understanding Colombian Ayahuasca Tradition If you’re exploring the world of ayahuasca, especially in Colombia, you might’ve come across the term ‘Taita“. Taita, in many indigenous Colombian cultures, is more than just a title. It’s a mark of deep respect, denoting a healer or a shaman, specifically one who conducts ayahuasca ceremonies. Another […]