Retreat FAQ's
Why the sexual restrictions? When two people engage in any sex-related activity, there is an exchange of energy. While the plants are working on your energy, it is best that there are no outside energies coming into the mix. The spirits will be straightening out all your energetic centres, including your sexual energy, which is why masturbation is also not recommended. This is also a rule followed by all shamans in the jungle working with the plants.
Why can’t I drink alcohol or use drugs for the 30 days after the dieta? As your energy is being worked on you must refrain from these substances as we don’t want the energy of these substances to hinder the process. They can make you feel poorly and have a negative effect on the dieta.
Why the food restrictions? These rules are set in place so that the body has a chance to detox and give the spirit’s the optimal conditions to cleanse you. All shamans in the jungle prohibit consuming salt, condiments, oils and pork.
Is it normal to have some fear at the prospect of drinking ayahuasca? Yes, it’s totally normal, you will be entering an altered state of consciousness which will be a new experience for many. However, we have much experience with working with the plants and you will be fully supported the whole time. Plus, we will give you a preparation talk before we begin, giving you tips on how to best navigate the experience.
Will the ayahuasca make me feel bad? It can sometimes be a difficult experience whilst the plants are cleansing you physically and mentally. However, you will feel so good after that it will totally feel worth it. You can also reach many beautiful states and the spirits will teach you many things.
Can it make you vomit? Yes, it’s common to vomit or need to go to the bathroom as the plant purges all the energies that you don’t need any more out of you. However, the space is set up with this in mind with access to bathrooms and you will have a sick bowl by your side.
Is it safe? Yes, if administered by somebody that has been adequately trained and has knowledge in the plant materials that are used in cooking the brew. Also having the necessary skill to support you on your journey and the shaman having acquired necessary mastery in holding the ceremonial space. All our plants and ayahuasca brew are meticulously prepared using a recipe that has been passed down through the maestro’s lineage.
There are some health conditions that are contraindicated for drinking ayahuasca that is why we ask you to fill out a health questionnaire before we can accept you. We ask that you are completely honest otherwise it can be unsafe.
We will also review any medications that you are taking and discuss this with you. It can be dangerous to take anti-depressant medications. Drugs that contain SSRI’s (Serotonin
Reuptake Inhibitors), used in most common antidepressants which if combined with Ayahuasca can boost serotonin levels and be potentially fatal. However, you can be weaned off these medications under supervision from your medical practitioner a few weeks before coming on the retreat.
Is it safe to travel to Peru? Yes, Peru receives many visitors each year. However, we advise you to exercise common sense. Please don’t take large amounts of money out with you. Be aware of your surroundings and your bags. Be careful at night time. Don’t walk around with big cameras in places like the local market etc.
Is it safe for female travellers? Many women travel to Peru alone. The local men are more verbal in expressing their sentiments. However just brush it off and take no notice.
Will I need a visa? You will have to check from your home country. From most countries you don’t need to arrange a visa before you come. They will stamp your passport on arrival at customs for a maximum of 90 days stay. However, you do need to make sure that your passport will not expire within 6 months of arrival.
Do I need any travel medicine to travel to Peru? You do not need a yellow fever jab and you can’t take any malaria prevention medication when taking the plants. Also, they are very toxic to the liver. We recommend prevention such as long sleeve trousers and shirt for jungle walks and periods outside. All the buildings are screened with mosquito net. We will also burn coils at sunset as another preventative measure if needed.
Do you cater for vegetarian or vegan food? Yes, at booking we will ask you to fill our a questionnaire to better prepare for your arrival.
Do you have a wifi connection at the camp? We have starlink in the main house. The retreat is a time for you to go deeply into your process with the plants and have time to commune with their spirits. Giving you a chance to also connect with your inner world and work through issues that arise. Quietening your mind from external distractions so that you can listen to any guidance and get into a space of connectedness and openness. For this reason, whilst on retreat we ask you to only use the internet for important messages to touch base with loved ones.
If you have any questions about the retreat please do get in touch.