Taking part in an Ayahuasca retreat can be a life changing experience and preparing for your first Ayahuasca session is critical to the efficacy of this powerful jungle medicine. The following article shares more light on the things to keep in mind before you take Ayahuasca.
Recent scientific discoveries have shown that certain foods are contra-indicated for the type of spiritual practice that we will be engaged in. These foods increase the probability of purging, nausea, headache or increased heart rate.
We recommend that you avoid these foods for 3-7 days prior to drinking ayahuasca. You can read about the MAPS research into diet here.
As a general rule: foods that are aged or fermented to enhance the flavor are to be eliminated. Examples: blue cheese, roquefort, parmesan, romano, cheddar, smoked brie, etc. miso, braggs, soy or tamari sauce, sardines, herring, smoked fish, chicken livers, snails, red wine, vermouth, beers (including non-alcoholic), strong coffee, chocolate, cream, yogurt and sauerkraut. As much as possible omit salt from your diet.
Other food types to avoid include: Dried fruits, canned figs, raisins, walnuts, overly ripe bananas, avocados, beans (particularly broad beans such as fava or lima). Nutritional yeast, Brewer’s yeast, all vitamins, any supplements and protein drinks containing the amino acid TYRAMINE.
All the above foods contain high quantities of the amino acid L-Tyrosine that produces the contra-indicated chemical tyrosine in the body that causes the potentially negative reaction. This substance can be stored in the body for up to three days. Avoiding the above items is highly recommended.
All narcotics, barbiturates, antihistamines or analgesics, ephedrine (in some herbal stimulants and cold remedies and often times included in Chinese herbal remedies), and alcohol must be free from your system prior to drinking ayahuasca. Any prescription or other drug use must be discussed with the Spirit Vine facilitator prior to sessions.
We suggest abstinence from reading newspapers, watching TV, etc. the day of the session and as many days before as works for you will help to purge your mind of unwanted thoughts and influence. Practicing meditation is an ideal form of preparation.
It is also recommended to abstain from sex before during and after the retreat. Sexual orgasm is an intense energetic shift in the body’s’ energy field and it has been said by some shamans that it can create leaks or allow in other energies. By sealing your aura and energy body during an ayahuasca experience, the spiritual energy will remain intact within you. There are many schools of thought on this and we recommend at least three days abstinence before and after an ayahuasca ceremony.
These guidelines can assist you in having a more beneficial and enjoyable experience.
