Important Considerations To Make Before Going For An Ayahuasca Ceremony

Ayahuasca is a successful system for healing trauma, PTSD, depression, addiction, etc. It is a powerful proprietary treatment that helps to heal mental illnesses. So if you plan to visit Ayahuasca retreats in the USA, it is important that you know certain considerations about it and follow specific rules so that you can have a safe and sound ayahuasca experience.

Setting An Intention

Setting an intention before a psychedelic trip is extremely necessary. So before you visit Ayahuasca retreats in the USA, decide what you want to learn from this experience and why you are attending the ceremony. It can be anything like developing a healthy relationship with anger, overcoming fears around money, overall growth, something to learn from your experience, something to leave behind, a relationship that is no longer serving you, a burden to be released, being a better version of yourself, healing the wounds, and reaching your full potential physically, and emotionally. Remember that a good intention is emotion-focused. Your intention will help to give you the strength to push through the moments.

Let Go of Your Expectations

Remember that Ayahuasca is extremely unpredictable and reacts differently to everybody. The ayahuasca experience will not be as you expected it. So having expectations can hold you back and prevent you from surrendering. Ensure you are well-informed about the ayahuasca ceremonies and read lots of articles, documentaries, or videos about other people’s experiences. However, also know that your experience will be completely different from others. The experience can often be subtle, with tiny shifts in perception that can lead to big changes. So do not compare your experiences with that of others. Go in with an open heart and trust the intelligence of the spiritual guides. 

Exercise Regularly

Mental and physical health are significantly connected. Your body will feel good only if you treat it well, and the mind follows. If you are not much into exercising, you can even start with something small like taking short 10 mins walks or yin yoga. Regular exercise will help you keep up with your regimen and try to be mindful of your actions. You may also incorporate a meditative aspect into your routine. 

It would be best to be well-hydrated for the body to function properly during the ceremony. Also, give yourself some rest and your body a break. Try to avoid any triggers and have a good night’s sleep. Try to get into a regular sleep schedule and avoid sleeping with the TV on. Start spending more time alone. Give yourself enough time for reflection and meditation on your intention. Keep your distance from distracting things like TV and the internet. You may walk, read books and spend more time with nature. Remember that the things you focus on before the ceremony will likely come up again during the Ayahuasca experience. 

Prepare Yourself For The Difficult Experiences

You can use many techniques to navigate challenging moments, like focusing on breathing, recalling your intention and gratitude, opening your eyes, and concentrating on the music. Also, make sure that you set up an aftercare to help with the transition. If you are looking for deep healing, it is best to go to retreat centers at least a month before the ceremony so that you do not have any distractions from family or work. The facility can help you develop many options based on individual conditions. 

What To Eat?

Since Ayahuasca can be physically difficult, you must prepare your body for the ceremony. Strictly follow the Ayahuasca diet outlined by the retreat experts, mostly for spiritual discipline. It involves avoiding certain foods like red meat, spicy food, dairy products, alcohol, and drugs. Avoid these foods at least one week before the ceremony. Be mindful about what you consume and binge on fresh vegetables, whole grains, and in-season fruits. Also, check the ingredients and nutritional labels and avoid highly processed food and anything loaded with added sugar. Studies have also shown that it is dangerous to take MAOI antidepressants or SSRIs, MDMA, opiates, or recreational drugs like cocaine before consuming Ayahuasca. You must also avoid foods with high amino acid tyramine, like aged cheese and cured meat. When combined with Ayahuasca, tyramine can raise your blood pressure.

Potential Side Effects

Remember that many unpleasant side effects are experienced during ayahuasca experiences, like diarrhea, vomiting, panic, and paranoia. However, these are considered completely normal and are only temporary. Ayahuasca can react dangerously with many medications like cough medicines, psychiatric medications, weight loss medications, drugs used to control Parkinson’s disease, etc.

Moreover, patients with a history of psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia should avoid Ayahuasca since it can worsen their symptoms and result in mania. If you have a heart condition, Ayahuasca can increase your heart rate and blood pressure leading to dangerous side effects. 

To Conclude

No matter how well prepared you are for the ayahuasca ceremony, treatment for psychological disorders using Ayahuasca should only be done by medical professionals and experienced and reliable shamans.