BACK

AYAHUASCA PREPARATION EXAMPLE 2

Because medicine detoxifies both the mind and body, it is best to be as clean as possible before you drink. To prepare the mind: For several days prior to the ceremony, avoid situations that generate negative emotions or stress. Practice calming the mind with meditation, journaling, yoga, t'ai chi, hot baths. Avoid television, bad movies, shopping malls...any of the myriad spiritual and psychic toxins of mass culture. Bring to a close any work that remains unfinished and, if possible, resolve conflicts in your relationships so that your mind can be as free of these burdens and distractions and possible. Most people find that clearly setting intentions is extremely helpful. Consider carefully what you hope to learn from the experience. What are the problem areas of your life you'd like to work on? What kind of knowledge and healing are you seeking? Think honestly about your purpose for inviting medicine into you. Your intentions will help to guide you through the experience and can deepen and enrich your learning.

To prepare the body:
A clean and healthy diet will help the medicine do its work. The less physical poison it needs to purge, the more work it can do with you on higher levels. Avoid processed foods, especially those with sugar and salt. Avoid fried, fatty, fermented and spicy foods. Avoid aged cheese and dairy products. Eat sparingly the few days prior to the ceremony, and try to stick with whole foods. Fruits and vegetables, brown rice and whole grains, fresh juices, fish and poultry (cooked without oil) are recommended. Avoid also coffee, alcohol, cigarettes, or any other drugs (including prescription drugs, marijuana and all anti-depressants and psychotropics). As always, drink plenty of water and get good sleep. Avoid sex for three days in advance of the ceremony. Please fast the day of the ceremony. If you must eat, do not do so after 12 pm on the day of. In addition, drink minimal water in the hours prior to drinking.

What should I bring with me?
You will be sitting upright in one spot for approximately four to six hours, so bring whatever you need to be comfortable: blankets, pillows, mats, back support, etc. Dress in loose, comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting dirty. You'll want footwear nearby that is easy to slip on and off in the dark. If you have any objects that have special meaning or power for you, that give you security and comfort or that otherwise are grounding or have a positive valence, you might want them nearby. Some people find a favorite essential oil or crystal to be helpful during the ceremony. Don't bring anything fragile or that could easily be lost.

Should I drink water during the ceremony?
No. You may wash your mouth with water if necessary, but don't swallow it.

Can I leave the circle and go off on my own?
No. This is strongly discouraged for a couple of reasons. First, if you leave and are having a difficult time, there may be no one to help you because they may not know where you are. It is probable that you will be very disoriented and your motor control will be compromised. If you become lost and unable to function physically, no one will be able to help you. Second, the success and power of a ceremony depends, in part, upon the energy of the group. The shaman needs to have everyone present in order to work this energy and to keep it balanced. If you absolutely must leave the circle, you must let someone know and you should return within 15 minutes to your place.

Are there any dangers or contraindications?
Yes. You should not drink if you: have diabetes, are pregnant, have heart problems, are taking anti-depressants, sedatives or sleep aids on a regular basis, are taking MAO inhibitors, have liver or kidney dysfunction, or have a history of severe psychiatric problems.

What if I'm taking birth control pills or am menstruating?
Birth control pills are fine; you should not drink, however, during menses.

What should I do after the ceremony?
Once the ceremony is closed, you may do whatever you wish. Some like to discuss and process their experiences, but others prefer to remain reticent. It is not recommended that you drive a car until some time has passed after the close of the ceremony. In the days and weeks following the ceremony, you may find that you are more sensitive than normal, and that you continue to process and reflect on the experience. Many of the benefits of the medicine occur during this time. It is an excellent opportunity to break old patterns of behavior and make positive changes. Try to avoid going immediately back into old, destructive habits. In addition, the shaman usually recommends several dietary restrictions to allow the medicine to complete its work. Do not eat until noon on the day following the ceremony. Furthermore, avoid: alcohol for 15 days, pork for 15 days, red meat (including lamb) for 8 days, spicy foods for 7 days, and sex for 7 days.

Can I tell my friends about medicine?
Because of our society's current limited view of shamanism, please be careful to discuss your experience only with people who you are certain will be receptive and open-minded.
 

(Written from Outside Source)