Difference of drinking Ayahuasca in the west vs. in Latin America
Ayahuasca is really starting to make waves around the world. It’s fascinating to see how this ancient brew is sparking interest far beyond its roots, even here in the United States and over in Europe. More and more people now don’t have to journey far to experience its effects. This raises a pretty intriguing question: do you need to book a flight to Latin America to get the real deal, or can you find an experience just as meaningful closer to home? It’s about figuring out if the place where you have your Ayahuasca journey matters as much as the journey itself. Key takeaways: It is important that you consider the legal status where you drink Ayahuasca The quality of the Ayahuasca facilitators is essential. There are benefits in the west (accessibility) and benefits in the native territories of Ayahuasca (quality of facilitators, closeness to nature, level of preparation, support for the indigenous communities etc.) Where to drink Ayahuasca is an individual decision and depends on various factors and is different for each individual and their situation Table of Contents Things to consider: Legality: When diving into the Ayahuasca journey, there are some practical things you’ve got to consider, with legality being a big one. Down in Latin America, Ayahuasca is not just legal; it’s a part of their deep-rooted indigenous practices. That’s not always the case in the West, but times are changing. In some places, like San Francisco, they’re starting to ease up on psychedelics, with Ayahuasca sometimes making the cut. And then there’s Portugal, where they’ve taken a unique approach by decriminalizing all substances. In the USA, it’s interesting because Ayahuasca can be used legally within certain religious groups. But let’s be real, these situations are more the exception than the rule. In a lot of places, Ayahuasca is still off the table legally. That means those who run these sessions might be shouldering a lot of risk, much more than the participants. And there’s something a bit off about settling into an Ayahuasca experience with the thought in the back of your mind that, technically, it’s not on the right side of the law. Worst case scenario, you’re in this vulnerable state, and the police could show up. Not exactly the setting for spiritual enlightenment, right? We always suggest sticking to the straight and narrow, following what’s legal where you live. It’s about staying safe and making sure your experience is as stress-free as possible. Quality of Ayahuasca facilitators: When it comes to the quality of Ayahuasca facilitators, there’s a notable difference between those in its native lands and elsewhere. In places where Ayahuasca is deeply rooted into their cultur, the expertise and insight of shamans, or so called Taitas and Mamitas in Colombia, is unparalleled. They’ve often been immersed in the traditions from a young age, some even taking Ayahuasca since they were kids, long before they start to guide others. This depth of knowledge isn’t just learned; it’s lived, giving them an incredibly rich understanding of the plant’s nuances. Now, you might get lucky and find some of these indigenous Taitas hosting ceremonies in the West. When you do, the authenticity and quality of your experience is likely to be just as profound as it would be in their homeland. That’s a gem of a find, and if you come across a setup like that, concerns about quality shouldn’t bother you. On the flip side, you’ve got facilitators who may have fast-tracked their journey to becoming Ayahuasca guides. It’s a different vibe for sure, and it’s something to think about. The level of experience and the connection to Ayahuasca’s cultural roots can vary widely, which might influence the depth and safety of your experience. It’s something to approach with eyes wide open. Must read Blog: What is Ayahuasca – the mystery of the Amazon explained Rushing the process of sharing Ayahuasca Imagine this scenario: Let’s I would be living in the West, deeply familiar with Ayahuasca’s profound journey after participating in over a hundred ceremonies and supporting countless others through their experiences. Given this, plus a growing demand for Ayahuasca ceremonies around me, it wouldn’t be surprising if I felt a pull to start sharing Ayahuasca with others. And let’s say I go for it – chances are, I might handle most of the ceremonies quite well, given my background. But here’s the thing to chew on – there could be those tricky moments, those intense sessions where things get really challenging, and it’s possible to be overwhelmed. I might be doing it with the best intentions, feeling almost ready, yet there’s that niggling doubt: Am I rushing it? This isn’t about doubting my abilities, but it’s acknowledging the gravity of what it means to lead an Ayahuasca ceremony. It’s delicate work, loaded with responsibility. I have got to be certain, I can navigate whatever comes up, having been through it many times myself and guiding countless others. Some might be nudged into leading ceremonies by the circumstances, maybe even a bit of financial incentive. I can see they might have the purest intentions, but the timing could still be off. It’s not for me to pass judgment – everyone’s path is their own, and I don’t know every facilitator’s story. I’m just pointing you to keep this in mind, to really consider the experience and background of whoever’s leading your Ayahuasca ceremony. It’s an important factor in setting the stage for a safe and meaningful experience. Upholding traditions Alright, let’s talk about upholding traditions. I remember a participant who attended our retreat recently. He was also part of a church back in the US where Ayahuasca was shared, and he pointed out just how different the two experiences were. He was struck by the deep respect we showed towards Ayahuasca, something he suggested was a standout compared to his other experiences. Now, I haven’t personally sat in a ceremony at that church, so I can’t speak from first-hand experience. But
Origin of Ayahuasca: how the indigenous discovered Ayahuasca
Ayahuasca, a term now resonating across the globe, is known as a potent tool for personal transformation and healing. But to truly appreciate its impact, one must dive into its roots. Where did Ayahuasca originate? What is it’s history? How did the indigenous of the amazon discover it? Let’s journey back in time to uncover the genesis of this sacred plant medicine. Key takeaways: Ayahuasca’s origin is the amazon rainforest and is native not just to Peru, but also to Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Bolivia and Venezuela. How Ayahuasca was discovered remains a mystery. Many believe the indigenous observed the jaguar eating the chakruna leaves and trying it themselves. Others myths tell that shamans received messages in their dream to cook these two plants together. Different tribes of the amazon significantly separated by each other independently found Ayahuasca which adds further mystery to the origins of Ayahuasca. Table of Contents The Origins of Ayahuasca Within the vast ecosystem of the Amazon rainforest lies the birthplace of Ayahuasca. While Peru has become synonymous and most famous for Ayahuasca, it’s essential to acknowledge that Ayahuasca’s roots extend across several countries including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Bolivia, basically where there is the Amazon rainforest. What’s particularly intriguing is how multiple tribes within these regions, despite being significantly geographically and culturally separated, stumbled upon this unique combination of plants. Each tribe, with their distinct rituals and traditions, integrated Ayahuasca into their spiritual practices, which is truely remarkable and poses many questions as well. Must read blog: What is Ayahuasca – the mystery of the amazon explained How did the Indigenous Discover Ayahuasca? The discovery of Ayahuasca by indigenous tribes is disguised with a lot of mysteries and legends. The idea of combining two specific plants from among the estimated 80,000 species found in the Amazon seems almost beyond belief. How did these ancient cultures pinpoint this particular symbiotic relationship between the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of the Chacruna plant to produce such a profound psychoactive brew? Many tribes have their myths and stories about Ayahuasca’s discovery. Origin of Ayahuasca: Observing Nature: Learning from the Jaguar Nature has always served as a profound teacher to indigenous cultures, offering insights and wisdom that have shaped their beliefs, practices, and daily lives. One striking example of this symbiotic relationship is the indigenous tribes’ observation of the Amazon’s apex predator: the Jaguar. The Jaguar, often regarded as the ‘king of the jungle’ (while the lion holds the title in the savannah), has been observed eating the Chacruna plant and having strange reactions after that. To the tribes, this act wasn’t merely a random behavior but a significant cue. If such a majestic and powerful creature was drawn to this plant, surely, there was a deeper meaning and potential behind it. Chacruna is rich in DMT, a naturally occurring psychoactive compound. Upon ingestion, it can produce visions and altered states of consciousness, even before its combination with the Banisteriopsis caapi vine. This observance perhaps gave the indigenous tribes the first tipp about the plant’s unique properties, prompting further exploration. The next challenge was to find its perfect partner to unlock its full potential, leading to the discovery of the synergistic relationship with the caapi vine. Through a combination of keen observation, respect for nature’s wisdom, and iterative experimentation, the indigenous tribes arrived at the brew we now know as Ayahuasca. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqGDv0KCJl8 The Whisper of Plant Spirits: Shamans’ Dreams and the discovery of Ayahuasca’s recipe The Shipibo tradition offers another perspective on the origins of Ayahuasca. Within this tradition, it is believed that the knowledge of Ayahuasca did not come merely from physical observation or experimentation but from a more ethereal and sacred source: the spirits of the plants themselves. In tales passed down through generations, certain master shamans were chosen by the spirits to receive special visions in their dreams. Within these dreams, the spirits of the plants conveyed to the shamans the sacred knowledge of combining the Chacruna plant with the Banisteriopsis caapi vine. These revelations in their dreams were treated with the utmost respect and, upon waking, the shamans set forth to bring these dreamt combinations into reality, ultimately birthing the transformative brew of Ayahuasca. While there are various theories and stories surrounding the discovery of Ayahuasca, these 2 explanations seam most comprehensive to many. Observing nature and the king of the jungle and discovery of this combination in a dream state when one can access other realism of consciousness. The Lost Civilizations of the Amazon: The mystery of the past The Amazon rainforest, often perceived as a sprawling expanse of untamed wilderness, holds many secrets and hidden tales that are still being uncovered today. Contrary to the traditional belief that the Amazon was sparsely populated with nomadic tribes, recent evidence suggests the existence of complex and advanced civilizations thriving amidst its dense foliage. The video reference highlights a striking revelation: the Amazon, at one point in history, housed cities with populations exceeding 100,000 people. To put this into perspective, such numbers would rank these cities among the top ten largest globally during their era, as shown in the visual representation on Visual Capitalist. The very notion that such significant populations could thrive in what many would consider a challenging and hostile environment is truly astounding. These lost cities of the Amazon are a testament to the adaptability, innovation, and resilience of its ancient inhabitants. The intricate relationship these communities had with the land and nature undoubtedly played a role in their understanding and ritual usage of Ayahuasca, a central element in the mysteries of the Amazon. As we delve deeper into the stories and histories of this vast rainforest, we’re continuously reminded of its rich cultural heritage and the deep well of knowledge it holds, waiting to be rediscovered (and preserved). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaXrX0veR9Y Ayahuasca: Manifestation of a Spirit Within Nature The profound relationship between the indigenous people and the vastness of the Amazon rainforest extends beyond the physical realm. To them, every
Ayahuasca Cultural Appropriation – the western influence and its impact on indigenous communities
In today’s increasingly globalized society, the West finds itself concerned with the complexities of cultural appropriation, striving to distinguish between genuine appreciation and thoughtless exploitation. Ayahuasca, an ancient and sacred tradition deeply rooted in indigenous practices spanning thousands of years, hasn’t been spared from this topic. With its rising popularity in the Western world, Ayahuasca now stands at a unique intersection, where age-old tradition meets the West’s demands and new influences. These evolving circumstances calls for introspection and an earnest dialogue on how to approach such sacred traditions with the respect they deserve. Key takeaways: It is problematic when profit driven business people open Ayahuasca Retreats without honoring the tradition and creating ways for sustainability and mutual growth Ayahuasca is opening up and the majority of indigenous tribes believe that Ayahuasca needs to leave the Amazon and be shared with people from the city to help heal from diseases of the mind and reconnect with mother earth. Ayahuasca tourism is bringing a valuable economic driving force and external money to the much needed indigenous infrastructure in the amazon. Table of Contents The Problematic Side of Westernization: Profits Over Tradition A glaring instance of cultural appropriation emerges when Western (often luxurious) retreat centers commodify Ayahuasca, often devoid of genuine respect for its cultural and spiritual roots. These establishments, driven primarily by profit motives, capitalize on the growing trend and fascination surrounding Ayahuasca in the West. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with businesses evolving around emerging trends. The issue arises when these centers prioritize financial gains over preserving the rich heritage and sustainability of the practice. By taking the sacred ceremony of the indigenous communities and repackaging them for lucrative purposes – without ensuring an authentic and respectful cultural exchange or prioritizing the sustainable use of Ayahuasca – such centers risk diluting the very essence of this ancient tradition. The effects of Ayahuasca tourism in the Amazon: It is bringing in money into an ecosystem that needs it. The Amazon, with its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is undoubtedly a captivating destination. My first journey into the heart of mother earth left me in awe, yet it also led me to question the economic dynamics of the region. Apart from the fascinating nature, one wonders how the local economy thrives and how people sustain themselves. Upon closer inspection, you realize that the economic lifeblood in many of these areas is infused by tourism, especially eco-tourism and, more recently, Ayahuasca tourism. Bringing much-needed financial inflow into the Amazon, tourism, particularly related to Ayahuasca, has become a crucial economic pillar. Their economic growth is correlated to the the circulation of money. With limited traditional industries, the financial sustenance of many Amazonian communities rests on the visitors. However, Ayahuasca tourism is not the only economic avenue available. There are also more destructive paths, like deforestation for commercial purposes or, even more alarming, the illegal cultivation of coca to fuel the global drug market. Comparatively, Ayahuasca tourism seems like a more sustainable and harmonious choice. Working closely with an indigenous family in the region, I’ve observed the tangible benefits of Ayahuasca tourism. Not only do we source our Ayahuasca from them, ensuring they get a fair price, but we also collaborate on guided jungle tours where the indigenous communities retain the majority of the earnings. These funds empower them to invest in land, cultivate more Ayahuasca plants (adding to the sustainability of the work), and contribute to the local job market by hiring workers for construction, garden maintenance, and other demanding physical labour. This money goes into their ecosystem, the workers, their family etc. Such ventures not only provide employment but also instill a sense of pride and purpose, strengthening community bonds. In essence, while Ayahuasca tourism undoubtedly comes with its challenges and potential pitfalls, it can also serve as a driving force for sustainable development and economic empowerment for Amazonian communities when approached with respect and integrity. Must read Blog: What is Ayahuasca – the mystery of the amazon explained Non – trained indigenous ayahuasca shamans “Taxi driver or Ayahuasca shaman – whatever you need me to be” Ayahuasca’s growing popularity in the West, has unfortunately paved the way for opportunistic practices, especially in tourist-heavy areas. A close friend’s experience in Cusco, Peru, exemplifies this growing concern. My friend, who is on his path of Ayahuasca, was discussing his journey with a local taxi driver in Cusco. Intriguingly, the driver revealed that he occasionally also does Ayahuasca ceremonies. When he encounteres foreign passengers eager for an Ayahuasca ceremony, he takes them to the mountain, puts on his ponche, dresses up with some feathers and does a little ritual for them. This example isn’t just an amusing anecdote but shows a real concern. Simply being of indigenous descent does not automatically bestow one with the knowledge, experience, and spiritual wisdom required to guide an Ayahuasca ceremony. The art of conducting these ceremonies is a deep, sacred tradition, often passed down through generations. It requires extensive training, understanding, and respect for the medicine. When unqualified individuals claim to be shamans, they endanger participants by potentially mishandling the ceremony, which could lead to harmful or even traumatic experiences, causing a bad reputation for Ayahuasca. It’s crucial for anyone seeking to partake in an Ayahuasca ceremony to ensure that they’re placing their trust in a genuine, trained shaman. Doing so not only safeguards their own well-being but also respects the profound cultural and spiritual significance of the Ayahuasca tradition. The Shift in Shamanic Motivations: From Spiritual Calling to Monetary Gain Traditionally, the path of a shaman was one of immense personal and spiritual commitment. The role of a shaman wasn’t merely a profession; it was a life’s calling. Rooted in ancestral wisdom, the journey to become a shaman entailed significant sacrifices, extensive training, and a deep, unwavering dedication to the spiritual well-being of the community. It was a path not for personal glory or gain, but out of a profound sense of duty and purpose. However,
Connecting with the spirit world and ancient civilisations through Ayahuasca
Throughout history, different cultures have created a connection with the spirit world, seeking communication, guidance, and insight from beyond the ordinary. The intention to connect with the spirit world (or ancient and advanced civilizations) is not uncommon among Ayahuasca participants. Yet, as intriguing and mysterious as this undertaking may sound there are some traps to avoid. In case this is your intention when approaching Ayahuasca, there are multiple things to consider which we will dissect in this blog post. Key takeaways: The original reason why Indigenous shamans used to drink Ayahuasca was to connect with the spirit world and with plant spirits. It is even possible to connect with ancient & advanced civilisations through Ayahuasca These types of experiences one cannot force. They happen when they happen. Many seekers of these types of experience are using this fascination as a level of escapism to not face personal challenges. Table of Contents Communicating with Plant Spirits: the original reason to drink Ayahuasca The indigenous shamans of the amazon (called Taitas and Mamitas) have, for centuries, engaged in a profound communion with the natural world. At the heart of this connection is Ayahuasca with the primary purpose for these healers to establish a link to the spirit world and connecting with plant spirits. These plants, viewed as living entities with distinct consciousness, have been teachers and guides for the shamans. When drinking Ayahuasca, one can distinctly feel the connection to other plant medicines for example the tobacco plant or the coca leaf (and just as much with many other plant medicines). By drinking, smoking, eating a plant, the consciousness of the plant comes to ones consciousness and expands and develops within oneself to help guide on one’s path. To a Western mind, such beliefs might sound esoteric or “woo-woo.” However, it’s intriguing to note the parallels with quantum physics. At its core, recent scientific discoveries confirm the ancient understanding by asserting that everything, at its most fundamental level, is energy. The indigenous shamans, through Ayahuasca, tapped into this energetic realm, creating a symbiotic relationship with the spirts of the plants. Must read Blog: What is Ayahuasca – the mystery of the Amazon explained Ayahuasca’s Connection to Ancient Civilizations & Extraterrestrials Ayahuasca’s realm of influence isn’t just limited to the spirits of plants. Some participants / and guides report connections with far older and distant entities: ancient civilizations and even extraterrestrials. While such claims might raise eyebrows or even provoke skepticism, they are part of the mosaic of experiences reported by various Ayahuasca participants. In the beginning I was sceptical about these reports and was attributing them more to attention seeking individuals with a vivid imagination. Over time I have had many conversations with people in the plant medicine space that I deeply respect about this subject. They usually don’t tell you about these experiences but have told me that they did connect with these realms. At this point I have not experienced this in any of my ceremonies but from these conversations I can confidently share that there is a mysterious connection between Ayahuasca and ancient / advanced civilisations. High – level of curiosity generated by these topics: The magic of the spirit world, ancient civilizations, and extraterrestrials naturally sparks intense curiosity. There’s an innate human desire to explore the unknown, to seek out answers to questions that have captivated our imaginations for generations. Rather than merely hearing about these experiences second-hand, through mediums like YouTube videos or books, many are drawn to the idea of directly encountering these realms. This deep-seated curiosity drives some individuals to go on their own spiritual journeys, hoping for a first-hand glimpse into the mysteries of existence. You cannot force these types of experiences or connections While the desire to connect with these fascinating topics may be strong, one cannot simply force these experiences. Usually people only connect with these realms deep into their path of Ayahuasca (after multiple years). It takes time to build that level of stability and consciousness. Some of these experiences can be very ungrounding for which one in most cases is not ready for in the beginning of the path of Ayahuasca. Interestingly, while newcomers to Ayahuasca might hope for a mystical encounter with ancient civilizations or extraterrestrials, such profound experiences frequently present themselves to those who aren’t specifically seeking them out. It’s similiar to the paradox of chasing a butterfly: the more you chase, the more elusive it becomes. But when you sit quietly, immersing yourself in the present, the butterfly might just choose to land on you. Therefore, while it’s natural to approach Ayahuasca with hopes and expectations, the key is to surrender to the experience, allowing the medicine to guide the journey rather than narrowing it down to having to connect with ancient civilisations. This surrender and trust often pave the way for the most profound and unexpected revelations. What type of people generally look for these experiences I am about to generalize a bit, which of course is not correct 100 % of the times, but there is a general trend. People who are fascinated by these topics, are looking for the these extraordinary experiences, are usually people with a lot of curiosity. Yet, there’s an irony here. Often, those who are most eager to delve into the mysteries of ancient civilizations or communicate with extraterrestrial beings through Ayahuasca are the very same individuals who have glaring unresolved personal issues or imbalances in their lives. This isn’t to say that being curious about the wider universe is a sign of personal neglect. Rather, for some, the allure of the mysterious can act as a form of escapism. Instead of confronting and addressing their internal challenges or past traumas, they become fascinated with the idea of experiencing something grand and external. This pursuit, while exciting, can sometimes act as a distraction from the deeper, transformative healing that is more pressing in one’s journey. Must read blog: Ayahuasca Intentions – find the reason why you want
