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Preparation To The Experience
Before embarking on the transformative journey of healing, we emphasize the importance of thorough preparation.
All our Ayahuasca retreat programs include a complete readiness process.
Once you make your booking, we’ll provide you with a health questionnaire to gather essential information. This helps us ensure your well-being and suitability for the retreat, while also aligning with your desires and intentions. Your preparation is key to the profound experience that awaits you.
Upon reaching here, we’ll warmly welcome you, assist with settling into your room, provide a tour of our facilities and get ready for the experience.
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Meeting With Elisa:
Setting The Intention
Setting The Intention
The inital step on your journey is to meet with Elisa or another Maestro to prepare for the ceremony.
If needed, a skilled facilitator will be there to assist and translate. In this session, you’ll discuss your intentions and receive guidance for your journey. You’ll be assigned a specific master plant dieta and provided with a workbook or book to aid your diet training. This will help you identify your healing intentions and navigate your spiritual journey with clarity and purpose.
The “dieta”: the foundation of the Shipibo Shamanistic healing path
The ancient practice of “Dieta” (diet) among the Shipibo people traces back thousands of years. It is a profound journey of healing and self-discovery, using the powerful combination of Ayahuasca and the revered “plantas maestros.”
These master plants play a vital role in the shamanistic training of the Shipibo, a tradition that has persisted for over two millennia and remains unyielding in the Amazon basin.
The “plantas maestros” are rightly called master plants because they serve as our teachers, guiding us to understand the world around us, our own inner selves, and the realms of the spirits. The core of Shipibo shamanism revolves around connecting with these spiritual entities, who are both mentors and healers. Through their potent properties and spiritual essence, they inspire us to work diligently and learn from the vast wisdom of our elders during the dieta process.
During this sacred period of dieting with the master plants, certain substances are abstained from, including sugars, oils, salts, pork, red meat, processed foods, medications, masturbation, sex, drugs, and spices. However, dieta encompasses far more than just dietary restrictions; it is a highly magical and intricate journey.
In the dieta process, we maintain a simple yet nourishing diet that allows us to consume grains, legumes, vegetables, chicken, plantains, bananas, fruits, and fish twice a day. This deliberate selection of food supports our spiritual exploration and enhances the transformative power of the dieta.
“Dieta” is a sacred tradition rooted in the Shipibo culture, harnessing the wisdom of master plants and Ayahuasca to facilitate healing, learning, and profound connection with the world, ourselves, and the spiritual realms. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, leading us to a deeper understanding of life and the cosmos.
Master Plants
In the shamanic practices of the Shipibo people, the healer, known as the curandero, determines the specific plant to mix with Ayahuasca based on the diagnosis of your health conditions.
We use the meals we consume as a way to purify ourselves and ensure that we are ingesting substances that will enhance our overall well-being. This process requires a deep commitment to healing, drawing on inner strength, motivation, and unwavering determination.
Respecting the spirit of the plant (the master of the plants), we approach this practice with obedience and humility, seeking not only to utilize the plant’s properties but also to tap into the wealth of knowledge and wisdom that the plants offer.
During the dieta process, we experience a revelation of truths that have been veiled from us, granting us access to the realms of power, information, insights, healing, energy, and wisdom of other worlds and the residing spirits there. To attune ourselves to these energies and establish a connection with reality, we employ various techniques such as dreams, meditation, songs, and visions.
Dietary Gudilenes To Prepare For The Experience
To prepare for your ayahuasca journey, follow a traditional diet used by Peruvian Amazon ayahuasqueros. This diet cleanses your body for a meaningful experience. It connects you to plant spirits, enhancing physical and spiritual healing. Commit to this diet to show intent and respect, fostering a strong plant spirit relationship. Take the diet seriously to avoid illness or unpleasant effects. Begin two weeks before the retreat, and continue two weeks after to integrate plant medicines.
> Refined sugars
> Red meat
> Junk foods
> Salt or pepper
> Sweets or chocolate
> Oils
> Animal fats (lard, etc.)
> Dairy products
> Fermented foods
> Caffeine & other stimulants
> Any Soda drinks
Two Weeks before avoid:
> Pork
> Cannabis
> Alcohol
> Sexual activities of any kind, including masturbation
> ALL drugs (cocaine, MDMA, amphetamines, etc.) – obligatory for your safety and for the possible energetic impact on other guests
> Spicy foods
> Ice, ice cream, or ice cold drinks
ONE WEEK BEFORE please avoid:
> Refined sugars
> Red meat
> Junk foods
> Salt or pepper
> Sweets or chocolate
> Oils
> Animal fats (lard, etc.)
> Dairy products
> Fermented foods
> Caffeine & other stimulants
> Any Soda drinks
TWO TO FOUR WEEKS AFTER the experience please avoid:
> Sexual activity of any kind (very important!)
> ALL street drugs (cocaine, LSD, MDMA, amphetamines, etc.) Extremely important
> Refined sugars
> Red meat
> Junk foods
> Salt or pepper
> Sweets or chocolate
> Oils
> Animal fats (lard, etc.)
> Dairy products
> Fermented foods
> Caffeine
We reccomend to respect the dietary guidelines, particularly in the weeks preciding the experience
Please feel free to write us prior and after the experience to discuss and help you integrate the experience.
Safety And Caution
As an Ayahuasca healing center, your safety and health are our top priorities. Our medical guidelines ensure a safe start to your retreat. Please confidentially share your mental, physical health, and medication details during booking.
Our Senior Nurse reviews all forms for your safety. Read this page carefully, consult your doctor, and contact us for any questions. Your well-being matters to us.
PHYSICAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
If you have high blood pressure or a cardiovascular heart condition, you should not participate in the Ayahuasca retreat. Ayahuasca can potentially elevate blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attacks.
• If you have diabetes, there is a higher risk associated with the absorption of Ayahuasca. The use of MAOIs present in Ayahuasca can affect blood sugar levels, potentially leading to hypoglycemic effects. Individuals with severe unstable diabetes should refrain from taking Ayahuasca due to this risk. If you have milder diabetes, please contact us before booking a retreat to discuss your case, including the possibility of a modified dieta and approach.
• If you or an immediate family member has a history of epilepsy and/or seizures, it is important to inform us before booking a retreat. Ayahuasca use, if not managed and monitored properly, could trigger a seizure if there is a familial history of epilepsy.
• If you have a liver or kidney condition, there is an increased risk associated with the absorption of Ayahuasca. Ayahuasca contains harmine and related alkaloids, which act as inhibitors of monoamine oxidase. This inhibition occurs in the liver and gastrointestinal tract. If you have various monoamines still present in your system from diet, environmental exposure, medical conditions, or the use of pharmaceutical or illicit drugs, these could accumulate in the presence of an MAOI and could further stress the liver and kidneys.
• If you have hypothyroidism, it is generally safe to use Ayahuasca; however, you must inform us of your condition so that we can closely monitor your dosage during your Ayahuasca experience. You can also continue using your hypothyroid medication (synthetic hormones such as synthroid) without complication.
• If you have tuberculosis, you must not take Ayahuasca.
• While there are no known contradictions with pregnancy and Ayahuasca consumption, due to insufficient medical research, and our commitment to the safety and well-being of our Guests, we advise against pregnant women attending our retreats. This precaution is taken to avoid potential complications that could affect both expecting mothers and their babies.
MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
• If you have a history of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, it’s important to understand the increased risk and potential symptoms. Please inform us. Ayahuasca can also reveal these symptoms. Contact us for personalized retreat evaluation.
• Ayahuasca can effectively address depression. When booking, share your situation. Combining antidepressants with Ayahuasca is unsafe. Prior to the retreat, it’s crucial to discontinue antidepressant use. Refer to our medication policy for proper timing.
ILLICIT DRUGS
MAOI Interaction with Illegal or Recreational Drugs: Combining stimulants like cocaine, amphetamines, or MDMA (Ecstasy) with MAOIs is extremely hazardous and can even lead to fatality. This dangerous mix can significantly raise blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke and cerebral hemorrhage. Serotonin agonists or precursors combined
with MAOIs can result in serotonin syndrome, characterized by severe and prolonged headaches, fever, rapid heart-beat, tremors, dilated pupils, high blood pressure, and potentially life-threatening symptoms such as seizures and renal failure.
• Avoid Combining MAOIs with the Following Illegal or Recreational Drugs: Cocaine, Amphetamines (meth-, dex-, am-phetamine), MDMA (Ecstasy), MDA, MDEA, PMA, Dextromethorphan (DXM), Opiates, Barbiturates, Kratom, Kava.
• Marijuana Usage and Ayahuasca: Smoking marijuana before an Ayahuasca ceremony may potentially diminish the full potential of the visionary experience. Due to heightened sensitivity during Ayahuasca sessions, marijuana could negatively impact not only the individual using it but also affect other participants’ experiences and the overall energy of the medicine circle. While this can vary case by case, we generally discourage marijuana use before or after our retreats.
• Travel Preparations and Medical Advice: Seek professional medical guidance before traveling to Peru. Vaccinations are a personal choice; however, consider potential risks like malaria and dengue fever. Although we haven’t encountered cases of these diseases, we can’t guarantee their absence. While a clean body is better for Ayahuasca consumption, this decision lies with our Guests.
• Admission and Drug/Alcohol Use: To ensure safety and well-being, admission may be refused if street drugs or alcohol were recently consumed before arriving at the Temple. These conditions are essential for your safety and the group’s welfare. By attending our retreat, you affirm your fitness for the workshop activities and understand the associated risks. Sanken Nete is not liable for accidents or injuries.
MEDICATION POLICY
To ensure your well-being, we require full disclosure of all medications taken in the past year before completing your registration with Sanken Nete. Failing to provide this information poses a risk to your health. When it comes to Ayahuasca and dieting medicinal plants, it’s essential to abstain from other substances or medications, including herbal remedies. This practice not only ensures your safety but also preserves the effectiveness of the plants and their energies.
For a safe Ayahuasca experience, it’s crucial to be aware of the following guidelines:
• Prescription Medications and Supplements: Cease using these at least 2 to 8 weeks before consuming Ayahuasca. The specific duration depends on the type of medication or supplement. However, an exception is made for synthetic hormones used for hypothyroidism. If you are taking such medication, you may continue during your Ayahuasca course but must inform Sanken Nete about its use.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: Most OTC medications, like antihistamines, only require 48 hours of cessation before Ayahuasca. However, we recommend discontinuing them 2 weeks in advance for optimal safety.
• MAOIs and SSRIs: Certain medications, including MAOIs and SSRIs, have potential health complications when combined with Ayahuasca. Therefore, an extended cessation period is necessary. Refer to the comprehensive list below for detailed descriptions and recommended cessation periods.
MAOIs and SSRIs
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): 4 – 6 Weeks Prior to Ceremony
Ayahuasca is a potent natural MAOI. Combining MAOIs can lead to dangerous complications, including hypertensive crisis, seizures, fever, and more. Cease MAOIs and consult a doctor for a safe tapering plan.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): 6 or 8 Weeks Prior, 4 Weeks After Ceremony
Combining Ayahuasca and SSRIs is life-threatening. Allow time for medications to leave your system and adjust to not being on them. Prozac requires 8 weeks cessation; other SSRIs need 6 weeks. Consult your doctor before stopping any medication.
Other Anti-Depressants: 6 Weeks Prior, 4 Weeks After Ceremony
Combining other anti-depressants with Ayahuasca can lead to serious complications. Give ample time for medication withdrawal. Consult your doctor before discontinuing.
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants (and Sleeping Pills): 3 to 4 Weeks Prior
Avoid CNS depressants due to increased risks. Cease benzodiazepines, sleep meds, and barbiturates 3 weeks before. Withdrawal symptoms may occur, so consult your doctor.
Other Prescription and Non-Prescription Medications: 2 to 3 Weeks Prior
Cease medications like antihistamines, decongestants, asthma inhalers, and caffeine-rich drugs 2 to 3 weeks before.
Herbs and Herbal Medications: 2 to 3 Weeks Prior
Avoid certain herbs that may interfere with Ayahuasca’s effects. These include St. John’s Wort, Kava, Kratom, and more.
Antibiotics: 1 to 2 Weeks Prior
Antibiotics may react with Ayahuasca, so discontinue antibiotic therapy 1 to 2 weeks before the ceremony.
For your safety, adhere to these guidelines and consult your doctor for any medication changes. Your health and well-being are paramount
