Ayahuasca is one of the most powerful plant medicines in the world, and understandably, many people who consider trying it ask themselves, “Am I really ready for this?” or “I am afraid of this experience.”
To answer this question, let’s take a closer look at Ayahuasca and the fears surrounding it.
Key takeaways:
- Ayahuasca’s reputation of having to face your deepest fears, confront your darkest trauma etc. has people understandably afraid of Ayahuasca. However, the nature of Ayahuasca is a lot more loving that people give her credit for.
- In the end the healing always comes through the love, light, understanding, compassion, acceptance and forgiveness, which is also the path of Ayahuasca
- It takes a lot of courage to look within. Ask yourself honestly how long you hae been struggling with whatever you are facing at the moment, how well your methods of dealing with it have worked, how much longer you are willing to stay in that situation and if you are ready to change.
Table of Contents
The Personal Decision: Is Ayahuasca Right for You?
It’s vital to recognize that Ayahuasca isn’t the right choice for everyone. While some individuals may be drawn to the plant medicine’s potential for healing and self-discovery, others might instinctively feel that it’s not suited for them.
In the end, the decision to embark on an Ayahuasca journey is a deeply personal one, and each person must carefully weigh the pros and cons before making that choice.
To be clear, the intention here is not to persuade or dissuade anyone from trying Ayahuasca. For every reason not to drink the brew, there may be a compelling counter-argument as to why it might be beneficial.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to determine whether this powerful experience aligns with their personal path and objectives.
There are those who, upon hearing about Ayahuasca, quickly and decisively determine that it’s not for them. They may have no desire to engage in such an intense, introspective experience, and their decision is evident.
It’s essential to respect these individuals’ choices and understand that plant medicine isn’t the only means of personal growth and healing.
However, there are also those who find themselves on the fence, intrigued by the possibilities but apprehensive about the unknown.
This group may be grappling with mixed emotions: part of them yearns to explore the healing potential of Ayahuasca, while another part fears the unknown, worrying about potential adverse reactions or discomfort.
It’s for these individuals that a thoughtful consideration of the pros and cons becomes especially crucial.
Ayahuasca’s Reputation generally scares people
Ayahuasca has gained a reputation for making people face their deepest and darkest fears, confront their inner demons, and relive their most traumatic memories.
Some stories even describe it as an intense journey to hell and back, with a myriad of terrifying experiences and visions.
Of course, one would naturally be afraid of an experience like this. But we have to take into consideration that these stories are the ones that go viral on the internet, creating an overwhelming impression of the Ayahuasca experience as solely fear-inducing and nightmarish.
However, it’s essential to recognize that the healing power of Ayahuasca comes from a diverse range of experiences, not just the dramatic and terrifying ones.
In the end, healing always comes through love, light, understanding, compassion, and forgiveness.
And this is also the way of Ayahuasca. Only these aspects of Ayahuasca do not garner as many views, but they are so much more common than the terrifying ones.
In many cases, the healing we seek comes not from a swift kick in the back, forcing us to confront our fears, but from the gentle embrace of love and understanding that Ayahuasca can provide.
This nurturing aspect of plant medicine is often overlooked, as sensationalized stories of fear and terror take center stage.
It’s important to remember that watching these fear-based stories can impact our subconscious, potentially shaping our own Ayahuasca experiences and perpetuating a cycle of fear.
Ayahuasca: The Master Plant’s Deep Intelligence and Guidance
Ayahuasca, often referred to as the master plan, possesses deep intelligence that seems to understand us better than we understand ourselves.
It provides us with what we need and can handle. Sometimes offering a harsh look in the mirror of our lives. Yet, this introspective journey is often precisely what we require for growth and healing.
By trusting in Ayahuasca’s inherent wisdom, we can embark on a journey guided gently and effectively by the plant’s profound insight.
The master plan’s ability to tailor the experience to our individual needs and readiness is nothing short of remarkable.
For instance, a friend who has been working with Ayahuasca for about five years only began processing the memory of childhood sexual abuse in the fourth or fifth year of his journey.
This crucial aspect of his healing didn’t surface earlier because he most likely wasn’t prepared to face it at that point in his journey.
Similarly, if I had some of the intense / difficult ceremonies that I experienced later in my Ayahuasca journey in the very beginning, it would have possibly stopped my journey with Ayahuasca.
As we progress in our personal journeys with Ayahuasca, the plant seems to know what we’re ready for.
Ayahuasca’s deeper intelligence allows it to guide us through our healing process with a remarkable level of care and understanding.
By trusting in this wisdom and setting intentions for a gentle experience, we often find that the plant medicine responds accordingly, providing us with the right balance of challenge and nurturing that we need for growth and transformation.
In conclusion, embracing the deep intelligence of Ayahuasca as the master plan helps us navigate our journey with trust and confidence. By understanding that the plant knows what we need and can handle, we can open ourselves up to the powerful, transformative experiences that it has to offer.
Also, it is important that you prepare for your Ayahuasca ceremony. I wrote a blog specifically about this:
Find out if Ayahuasca is right for you
- Will you be safe physically and emotionally?
- How will you be supported in the ceremony?
- How do the facilitators handle difficult situations?
- How will you be able to process the experience?
- You want change, but will your life be unrecognizable after Ayahuasca?
+ 13 things to consider before drinking Ayahuasca?
Afraid of Ayahuasca and its connection to overcoming fear: In what other areas of your life does fear show up?
Personal experience:
In one of my most transformative Ayahuasca ceremonies, I was really afraid to go drink a second cup, but something intuitively told me that I should do it. The night before,
I had a very difficult experience. So I went up to Freddy Velasquez (“a well-known musician who was co-facilitating the ceremony”) and told him that I was afraid to drink another cup of Ayahuasca.
He responded with a very warm and welcoming, That’s ok, we will take care of you. What was beautiful is that he didn’t try to argue with me about why I didn’t have to be afraid; it was ok to feel fear and do it anyway.
In that ceremony, I had a deep comprehension, fully accepting myself and forgiving myself for the mistakes I have made in my life, which then created a profound feeling of inner peace. Also, interestingly, at that time, I did not speak Spanish and he doesn’t speak English, so I have no idea how we actually managed to have this conversation, but for the essentials, not a lot of words are necessary.
It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel apprehensive about the experiences they might encounter during an Ayahuasca journey.
However, facing one’s fears and delving into the unknown can lead to profound growth and self-discovery. Ayahuasca can serve as a catalyst for overcoming fear, expanding comfort zones, and embarking on a transformative journey.
Acknowledging one’s fear is an important step towards self-awareness and growth.
By being honest about these emotions, we open ourselves up to learning valuable life lessons. Freddy’s story reminds us of the saying, “the cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” This sentiment encapsulates the transformative potential of facing our fears and embracing the challenges they present.
In many ways, Ayahuasca serves as a reflection of our lives. If you are afraid to drink Ayahuasca, it is likely that you are afraid to go after other aspects in your life as well.
For instance, asking someone out, requesting a raise, embarking on a trip, or applying for a new job may provoke fear in us. However, these fears are not life-threatening and should not prevent us from pursuing growth and expansion.
The medicine can help us confront the fears that limit our potential and hold us back from experiencing the fullness of life. By tackling these fears, we can expand our comfort zones, level up our capabilities, and discover that the limitations we perceived were often just creations of our minds.
Overcoming fear is a crucial aspect of personal development, whether it’s through Ayahuasca or other means.
The key is to face our fears head-on and seize the opportunities they present for growth. If the fear persists, we can still proceed with confidence and trust, knowing that we are taking the necessary steps towards self-discovery and personal expansion.
By embracing our fears, we can unlock the treasures that lie hidden within ourselves and unleash our true potential.
Are you ready to move past your fear and experience Ayahuasca yourself? Feel free to check out our Ayahuasca Center: Ayahuasca Retreat Guacamayo
Differentiating between fear and danger:
When considering Ayahuasca, it’s crucial to differentiate between genuine dangers and irrational fears.
It’s natural to have concerns about safety, especially when embarking on a journey into the unknown. However, by taking the appropriate precautions and conducting thorough research, you can mitigate potential risks and ensure a secure and positive experience.
It’s important to acknowledge that some scenarios may indeed pose risks. For example, venturing deep into the jungle alone as a solo female traveler to have an Ayahuasca ceremony with this native shaman you heard about might not be the best idea, as it could expose you to unnecessary dangers. In such cases, it’s vital to trust your instincts and don’t be an idiot.
On the other hand, you can take steps to minimize risks and create a safe environment for your Ayahuasca journey. Start by seeking out an established retreat center with a proven track record and positive reviews.
Recommendations from friends or trusted sources can be invaluable in finding a reputable facility. Additionally, take the time to speak with the facilitators and ensure that you feel comfortable with their approach and qualifications.
By addressing potential dangers and dispelling irrational fears, you can create a solid foundation for your Ayahuasca experience.
Prioritizing your safety and well-being is essential to fostering an atmosphere of trust and openness, which in turn will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the healing and transformative powers of the Ayahuasca journey.
Remember, feeling secure and supported is essential to unlocking the profound potential of this sacred plant medicine.
“I want to figure out xyz before I drink Ayahuasca.”
A common misconception is that one must have their life in perfect order before embarking on an Ayahuasca journey.
However, the truth is that nobody’s life is flawless, and Ayahuasca serves as a tool to help you improve, grow, and find balance in the midst of life’s imperfections.
It’s crucial to remember that Ayahuasca is a loving medicine, and it’s essential to approach it with an open heart and mind, embracing your unique journey.
Individuals who hesitate to try Ayahuasca because they don’t feel “they have their life in order” are usually a sign that they are afraid of the experience.
They fear what they will encounter during their journey. It’s important to understand that Ayahuasca is not about exposing your shortcomings but rather offering a guiding hand to help you navigate your path to self-improvement and healing.
The plant medicine is there to assist you in uncovering your inner strength and potential, even when you feel uncertain or unprepared.
As you consider Ayahuasca, remember that life is a constant work in progress, and we all have room for growth and self-discovery.
Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, which may never come, take a leap of faith and trust that Ayahuasca can be a transformative ally in your personal development. With an open heart, a willing spirit, and a desire to grow, you can embrace the loving wisdom of Ayahuasca and begin the journey towards a more fulfilling, authentic, and balanced life.
Fear of Change
A common concern people have when considering Ayahuasca is the fear of change; they worry that they might become worse off, go crazy, or become unrecognizable to themselves.
It’s essential to understand that while Ayahuasca can indeed bring about profound changes, these transformations often lead to personal growth, self-awareness, and a more profound connection with one’s true self.
Embrace the process, trust the journey, and remember that sometimes things have to break down before they can be rebuilt stronger and better.
This process can be difficult and painful, but it is an essential part of our evolution as individuals. Ayahuasca can help facilitate this metamorphosis, guiding us through the darkness and into the light, ultimately leading to a more authentic, fulfilling, and joyful existence.
I prepared a blog that talks in depth about how to integrate your Ayahuasca retreat.
When contemplating the potential changes Ayahuasca may bring, it’s crucial to ask yourself whether you want your life to change and evolve. After all, growth and transformation are integral to our existence as human beings.
An upcoming blog post will explore how a crisis can occur after an Ayahuasca experience, but it’s important to recognize that these challenging moments can often be catalysts for significant growth and positive change.
MUST READ BLOG: Possible negative effects of Ayahuasca nobody talks about
“I don’t know the others who will be at the ceremony; I am afraid their energy will rub off to me.”
It’s natural to have concerns about the energy and dynamics of an Ayahuasca ceremony, especially when you don’t know the others who will be participating. There may be fears of absorbing negative energies or being triggered by someone’s presence. However, it’s essential to recognize that a good shaman and a reputable retreat center can address these concerns and create a safe and nurturing environment for all involved.
Encountering people who trigger you can actually be a valuable opportunity for personal growth. Instead of shying away from these interactions, consider reflecting on what it is about the person that causes a negative reaction within you.
This introspection can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and promote healing in areas you may not have realized needed attention. Especially in the extraordinary state of reality that you are in on Ayahuasca.
When choosing a retreat center, take the time to speak with the facilitators, feel their energy, and ensure that it aligns with your own.
Reputable retreat centers will often attract like-minded individuals, creating a supportive and harmonious atmosphere for the Ayahuasca journey.
By selecting a center where you feel comfortable and energetically aligned, you can create a more profound and transformative experience, enabling you to grow and heal in a safe and nurturing space.
Intuition vs. Ego
Navigating the delicate balance between genuine intuition and ego-driven fears can be challenging.
Our minds are powerful and can create a myriad of excuses to avoid confronting our fears or taking risks that may lead to personal growth.
Distinguishing between the voice of intuition and that of the ego is essential in ensuring that you make the right decision for your personal development.
Intuition often stems from a deeper knowing within us, a sense of alignment with our true selves, and a guiding force that can lead us toward growth and healing.
On the other hand, ego-driven fears are often based on self-protection and resistance to change, sometimes manifesting as excuses or reasons to delay or avoid a potentially transformative experience.
When contemplating an Ayahuasca journey, be mindful of the internal dialogue that may arise.
Ask yourself if the concerns and hesitations are genuinely aligned with your inner wisdom or simply the voice of your ego attempting to maintain the status quo.
This process of self-reflection and honest evaluation can help you differentiate between intuition and ego, ultimately guiding you toward the right decision.
“I don’t need Ayahuasca!”
There’s an inherent truth to the statement that we don’t necessarily “need” Ayahuasca.
It’s important to recognize that, at the core of our being, we have the capacity to find happiness and fulfillment with minimal external resources.
Moreover, asserting that we don’t need Ayahuasca may sometimes be a mask for underlying fears or apprehensions.
It’s essential to examine the motivations behind such statements and consider whether they stem from a genuine belief in self-sufficiency or simply serve as a defense mechanism against confronting our deepest fears and vulnerabilities.
Check in with yourself to see if this is coming from the previously mentioned place of ego or intuition.
Ask yourselves if diving into our subconscious, exploring our patterns, and unveiling aspects of our inner selves could lead to a more profound understanding and overall improvement in our lives.
By honestly assessing our motivations and genuinely questioning whether Ayahuasca could contribute to our personal development, we can make a more informed and authentic decision regarding if we want to go on this journey with Ayahuasca.
I am afraid to lose control in an Ayahuasca ceremony.
A common fear among those considering an Ayahuasca journey is the potential loss of control over their mind and body during the experience.
Questions may arise, such as: Will I be able to go to the bathroom, will I scream, or will I remain in control of my thoughts and actions?
In most cases, you will be able to control your body; you also have the power to navigate your thoughts, but that’s a bit more difficult.
To go more in depth on this topic, read the blog: What to expect in your Ayahuasca ceremony.
Apart from the question itself, it is important to delve into the underlying reasons for the need to maintain control, as this self-reflection can be a powerful catalyst for growth.
Remember, Ayahuasca is a mirror to life, reflecting aspects of our lives that may be difficult to confront.
By questioning where our fear of losing control originates and examining how it manifests in our daily lives, we can begin to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves.
There’s a profound beauty in letting go of control and surrendering to the Ayahuasca experience.
This surrender can extend beyond the ceremony, allowing us to relinquish our tight grip on life and embrace the uncertainty and unpredictability that it brings.
When we learn to trust in others, the universe, and the process, we can experience a newfound freedom and sense of flow.
If the fear of losing control is prominent in your thoughts surrounding Ayahuasca, it might be an even more compelling reason to embark on this journey. By facing this fear head-on and embracing the lessons it holds, you can move towards personal growth, self-discovery, and a more fulfilling life.
Conclusion: Don’t let fear control you
In conclusion, deciding whether or not to embark on an Ayahuasca journey is a deeply personal decision, and it’s crucial to approach it with wisdom and self-awareness.
If you’re facing real dangers, it’s important not to take unnecessary risks. On the other hand, if your concerns are rooted in fear, take a moment to examine the nature of those fears and how they might be impacting your life in other areas as well, and if you want to keep being controlled by this fear.
By reflecting on what you might gain from confronting these fears and considering the ways they could be holding you back, you can make a more informed decision about whether Ayahuasca is the right path for you.
Tune into your inner voice, listen to your intuition, and weigh the potential benefits of this powerful experience against any concerns you might have.
If you feel that Ayahuasca can help you grow, heal, and discover more about yourself, muster the courage to embark on this transformative journey.
Remember that facing your fears and pushing past your boundaries can lead to tremendous personal growth and an enriched, more fulfilling life.
FAQ
Yes, it is normal to have a degree of fear, nervousness and anxiety around Ayahuasca. In the end you are about to do something you have never done before. You are going on the journey to open certain topics that you might have suppressed for a long time. So it is normal to have a lot of respect for this journey and it takes a lot of courage to drink Ayahuasca.
You know if Ayahuasca is right for you if you listen to yourself. What thoughts, feelings and emotions come up for you when you think about Ayahuasca? Do you feel deep down that you can benefit from the experience? Also, it is normal to be nervous, however more importantly, Are you ready to look in the mirror or your psyche and see what is really going on?
You should acknowledge the fear that you have for Ayahuasca. After that you can decide more consciously if you want to have the fear control and dictate your life or if you want to move forward despite the fear. There is a common saying: “If you cannot beat the fear, do it afraid.” However, to know if this applies to you, you need to listen to your own inner guidance system.
