YAGE’ -AYAHUASCA

The ritual of Yagé is more than a mere tradition; it’s a profound spiritual journey entwined with the fabric of indigenous Colombian culture. For centuries, the indigenous tribes have revered Yagé, known elsewhere as Ayahuasca, as a bridge to spiritual enlightenment.

It’s a mystical brew crafted from potent plants, taken during ceremonies led by an experienced Taita, or healer, like Abuelo Avelino of the Cofan tribe. These ceremonies often take place in a Maloka, a traditional hut that sets the stage for this unique experience. This is where the magic unfolds, where people seek clarity, healing, and a deeper connection to the world around them.

The journey into understanding Yagé isn’t just about the drink itself; it’s about embracing the culture and wisdom passed down through generations. The blend of prayers, songs, and spiritual guidance creates an atmosphere that draws one in, inviting participants to explore the depths of our consciousness in harmony with the natural world.

An increasing number of people are turning to the brew for its potential to heal depression, addiction, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many people who have taken ayahuasca claim that the experience led to positive, long -term, life altering changes.

This may be due to the effects of ayahuasca on the neurological system. A study in 57 people demonstrated that depression and stress were significantly decreased after the ayahuasca ceremony and these changes persisted for 4 weeks. Likewise, convergent thinking improved post-ayahuasca ceremony until the 4 weeks follow-up. Satisfaction with life and several aspects of mindfulness increased the day after the ceremony, and where present 4 weeks later. Changes in affect, satisfaction with life, and mindfulness were significantly correlated to the level of ego dissolution experienced during the ayahuasca ceremony. Participants reported the spiritual experience induced by the substance reduced or completely eliminated their fear of death.

While ayahuasca has been used as a healing agent in traditional rituals for thousands of years, it wasn’t until western science studied the substance and addiction treatment trials were initiated. World renowned addiction expert and western-trained psychotherapist Gabor Mate believes that addiction is a direct result of coping mechanisms developed in early childhood to deal with stress, abuse, or trauma. He believes in the power of ayahuasca as a treatment for the underlying psychological distress experienced by people facing addiction.

“No matter what a person is addicted to—whether it’s eating, shopping, sex, drugs— each addicted person harbors a deep pain, which they may or may not be in touch with. The plant removes the self-created barriers to get in touch with the source of that pain, so you realize what you’ve been running from all of your life.” –Gabor Maté

Ayahuasca is a brew made from the leaves of the Psychotria Viridis shrub along with the stalks of the Banisteriopsis Caapi vine. Psychotria Viridis contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a psychedelic substance that occurs naturally in the plant. When combined, people who have taken Ayahuasca report having mystical experiences and spiritual revelations regarding their purpose on earth, the true nature of the universe, and deep insight into their “higher self.” This is viewed by many as a spiritual awakening and what is often described as a near death experience or rebirth. It is often reported that individuals feel they gain access to higher spiritual dimensions and make a deep connection with the universe. However, every experience is completely unique to the individual. It is a very mystical experience that may take you on trip within. The plant will show you exactly what you need to see, and you will feel exactly what you need to, therefore every experience is perfect as it is.