A few years ago (in 2016, to be exact), in my spiritual journey around the world, I arrived in Peru and participated in a shamanic ritual with Ayahuasca, at a center in Cuzco.
Ayahuasca is a mixture of several plants made by simmering them over low heat to obtain a concentrated substance that is later consumed.
The process was very well organized, with a doctor, psychologist, assistants, and authentic shamans from ancient traditions who live in the mountains.
The drink produces several hours of deep hallucinations during which one can communicate with the spirit world and achieve physical, mental, and spiritual healing.
After specific preparations for the process, we gathered in the evening in a room and drank the thick, unpleasant-tasting beverage. You wait for 10-15 minutes, after which you vomit. Only then does it start taking effect, and the hallucinations begin.
However, although in a trance I saw a lot of light and colors, I was very aware and present.
Intuitively, I had access to much more knowledge and understanding. I felt I could access my subconscious. I understood and found answers to many dilemmas I had at that time. I received insights into events, even from when I was in my mother’s womb.
The tendency was to lie down, to relax in that state where you felt a lot of peace and love. I noticed that the other participants lay down and probably fell asleep. I stayed in a meditation posture and worked actively throughout the process.
The next day, I shared my experience with the other participants. Some had pleasant experiences, while others had less pleasant ones.
For me, it was a very useful experience in which I had many realizations.
However, I realized that everything you get through this process, and even much more, can be obtained naturally through meditation.
Of course, it requires years of meditation, but what is yours is yours forever.
There are many practices and temptations on the path to the Self, but when you understand the process, you no longer need to stray from the path!