PREPARING FOR CEREMONY
Preparing yourself holistically before entering a ceremony with a natural entheogen as a sacrament is a crucial step towards a transformative experience. To ensure that you are ready to receive the sacred sacrament, it is essential to focus on love, protection, and positivity while engaging in guided meditation and shamanic practices for spiritual empowerment, transformation, and growth.
This is where the following guidelines can be useful, helping you to connect with your inner self and identify your intention more clearly, which ultimately leads to a deeper and more profound experience. By taking the time to prepare yourself, you can open yourself up to a powerful journey of spiritual empowerment, transformation, and growth.
SETTING YOUR INTENTION
Setting intentions before a sacred ceremony can be a powerful tool for spiritual empowerment, transformation, and growth. Thinking on your intention is recommended weeks to months in advance of ceremony.
Intention setting helps you to focus your thoughts and energy on what you want to achieve from the ceremony. It can also help to prepare you mentally and emotionally for the experience. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set intentions before a sacred ceremony.
Find a Quiet and Calm Space
a. Find a quiet and calm space where you can sit and focus on your intentions. It can be a room in your home or a spot in nature where you feel comfortable and relaxed.Reflect on Your Intention
a. Reflect on what you want to achieve from the sacred ceremony.
i. What are your goals?
ii. What do you want to release or transform?
iii. Write down your intention in a journal or on a piece of paper. Be specific and clear about what you want to manifest.Visualize Your Intention
a. Visualize your intention as if it has already happened. Imagine how you will feel.
b. Imagine what you will see and how your life will be different once your intention is fulfilled. This will help to create a clear image of your intention in your mind.Use Positive Language
a. Use positive language when setting your intention. Focus on what you want to manifest, not what you want to avoid or release.
b. Use phrases like “I am” or “I have” instead of “I want” or “I need”. This will help to create a positive and empowering intention.Trust the Process
a. Trust that the sacrament will work in alignment with your intention. Remember that transformation and growth can be a gradual process, and that the entheogenic plants will guide you towards what you need.
Setting intentions before a sacred ceremony can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. By following these simple steps, you can create a clear and focused intention that will guide you through the experience. The entheogenic plants will work in alignment with your intention and potentially provide guidance.
SPIRITUAL PREPARATION
"Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you." ~ Rumi
The beauty of the spiritual path lies in the fact that it’s not a far-off destination, but rather a journey that we are already on. Every step we take, every experience we have, is a part of our spiritual journey. It’s easy to forget that we are all walking this path, whether we realize it or not. But by bringing awareness to the present moment and embracing each step of our journey with an open heart and a curious mind, we can discover the hidden treasures that lie within us. So, let us embrace the path we are already on and awaken to the magic and wonder of our spiritual journey.
Take a moment to reflect on your current lifestyle and consider where negative energy might be lurking. To prepare for your journey of growth and transformation, it’s important to create space in your mind and in your environment. Give yourself permission to step away from the constant distractions of technology and instead embrace the power of solitude. Breathe in the fresh air of nature and connect with the energy of the Earth. By acknowledging sources of negative energy and being present with them, you allow them to soften and dissipate. Consequently, by cultivating a space of peace and clarity, you will be better equipped to embark on your path towards spiritual growth.
Consider transforming your home into a sanctuary of spiritual connection with a simple yet powerful tool: an altar or meditation space. An altar or meditation space is more than just a place to keep objects – it is sacred and holds the energy of your intentions, devotion, and gratitude. By arranging spiritual or personally meaningful objects and symbols in a specific way, you create a unique field of energy that reflects and amplifies your own spiritual essence. Let your altar or meditation space be a symbol of your deepest aspirations and a reminder of your divine nature. Watch as your home transforms into a haven of peace, love, and spiritual growth.
Embrace the beauty of silence as you prepare for a sacred ceremony. In the stillness, you can connect with your innermost self and tune in to the wisdom that resides within. Quieting your mind can be achieved through a variety of practices, such as meditation, mindful breathing, or focusing on a candle’s flame. By reciting prayers, mantras, or affirmations, you can invite a sense of divine presence into your heart and mind. As you embrace these moments of stillness, you may discover a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.
CHECKLIST
Consider Identifying and Being Present with Your Negative Energy:
a. Reflect on your lifestyle and identify sources of negative energy.
b. Acknowledge negative energy and be present with it to allow it to soften and dissipate.Create an Altar or Meditation Space:
a. Choose a designated area in your home.
b. Select spiritual or personally meaningful objects and arrange them in a specific way.
c. Let your altar or meditation space be a symbol of your deepest aspirations and a reminder of your divine nature.
d. Watch your home transform into a haven of peace, love, and spiritual growth.Explore the Silence:
a. Observe a period of silence to prepare for a sacred ceremony.
b. Connect with your innermost self and tune into the wisdom that resides within.
c. Quieting your mind can be achieved through meditation, mindful breathing, or focusing on a candle's flame.
d. Consider reciting prayers, mantras, or sutras to invite a sense of divine presence into your heart and mind.
e. Discover a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.Other Helpful Practices
a. Cut down on screen time and spend more time in solitude.
b. Connect with nature to breathe and ground yourself.
c. Cultivate a space of peace and clarity to embark on your spiritual journey.
PHYSICAL PREPARATION
“There is my body, in it an ocean formed of his glory, all the creation, all the universes, all the galaxies, are lost in it.” ~Rumi
The human body is a remarkable vessel, a temple of the divine that carries us through this life and into the next. It is our first and final sacred container, that we inhabit upon entering this world. As such, it is a sacred instrument that should be treated with the utmost respect and honor.
Preparing the body for a journey into expanded states of consciousness is an essential part of the process. The practices and protocols that lead up to this experience are known as a Dieta, and they encompass much more than just what we eat. They include behavioral abstinence and spiritual practices, all aimed at purifying and cleansing the body to enhance the potential for growth and transformation.
Simplifying the dieta by eliminating processed foods, preservatives, and animal products is recommended. Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas while avoiding strong black tea and coffee will also support the body's cleansing process. It is crucial to eliminate addictive substances like alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, and to avoid cannabis and other psychoactive substances for at least one week before the journey.
Work with your doctor to help identify which medications are compatible with the entheogenic plants being used in the ceremony and which are not. Please discuss the results with us.
Our utmost priority is the safety and well-being of our members and ceremonial participants. IT IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT ALL MEMBERS AND CEREMONIAL PARTICIPANTS BE TRUTHFUL AND ACCURATE WHEN DIVULGING THEIR CURRENT AND PRIOR MEDICAL HISTORY.
If you are on MAOI or SSRI drugs, it is absolutely necessary to eliminate or reduce your use of these medications before participating in the ceremony, as they can interfere with the effects of natural entheogens and have serious health repercussions.
We strongly advise against attempting to participate in a ceremony involving the consumption of natural entheogens while taking these medications and urge you to always consult with your doctor first. Let us work together to ensure that you have a safe and transformative experience.
In certain cases, we may work with individuals in exploring the possibility of reducing their dependence on prescription drugs, especially if they are taking MAOI or SSRI drugs. These medications can potentially interfere with the effects of natural entheogens and may pose serious health risks and death in some cases.
Remember, preparing the body for a journey into expanded states of consciousness is a matter of discernment and balance. By treating our bodies with the utmost honor and respect, we open ourselves up to the transformative potential of the plant spirits and create space for transformation and growth.
RECOMMENDED CHECKLIST
Understand that the body is a sacred garment and should be treated with honor.
Begin practicing dietary protocols and behavioral abstinence leading up to the ceremony.
Simplify your diet as much as possible in the weeks leading up to the ceremony, avoiding processed foods, colorings, and preservatives; salty, sugary, and spicy foods; animal products, particularly meat; and all addictive substances like alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, and recreational drugs.
Drink plenty of water and light herbal teas and avoid coffee or strong black tea.
Consult with a doctor on staff to identify which of your medications are compatible with the entheogenic plants you are going to journey with, and which are not.
If necessary, work with members and ceremonial participants to determine if and in what time frame you must eliminate your use of prescription drugs, particularly MAOI or SSRI drugs.
Abstain from sexual activity, both with others and on your own, as sexual intimacy is understood as a form of energetic connection between the people involved and can be distracting during the ceremony. Sexual activity with oneself is believed to deplete spiritual energy that could be used during the sacred ceremony, limiting the ability to dive deep and preventing clear communication with the sacrament.
Sleep at least 7 to 8 hours for three days before and after the journey and take naps if you feel tired from your activities.
Cleanse and purify your physical body using sage, incense, and salt baths, and go into nature to stay grounded.
Get a massage or go to a sauna to begin the process of relaxation.
Move stagnant energy out of the body, and on the other hand, quiet the physical system to go into the journey with a sense of vitality yet rested enough for the experience.
Remember that it is a matter of discernment and balance, and always consult with the ceremony leaders before making any changes.
RECOMMENDATIONS 4 WEEKS BEFORE
If you are currently taking medication that affects your serotonin system, such as SSRIs or MAOIs, it is crucial that you work closely with your doctor to slowly wean yourself off of these drugs. This process may take time and patience, but it is necessary in order to fully prepare your body and mind for the upcoming ceremony.
By taking this step, you are not only ensuring your safety and well-being during the ceremony, but also opening yourself up to the transformative power of the sacrament. With each passing day, you will feel yourself becoming stronger and more resilient, ready to face whatever challenges come your way.
We also ask that you eliminate all pharmaceutical drugs, including prescription and over-the- counter medications, before the ceremony. This includes allergy pills, hormonal supplements, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and more.
We understand that this may be challenging, and we encourage you to consult with a medical professional before making any changes to your medication regimen. Let’s work to ensure that your body is in the optimal state to receive the sacrament and that you can fully benefit from this profound experience.
Specific restrictions with potentially LETHAL interactions. PARTICIPANTS TAKING THE FOLLOWING MEDICATIONS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO TAKE PART IN THE CEREMONY:
1. Amphetamines: Ritalin, Adderall, Dexedrine, Benzedrine, and the like
2. Antidepressants: MAOI's, Serotonin enhancing medications like Seroquel, SSRI's
3. Antihistamines, medication for colds, sinus problems, hay fever or allergies, sleep aids
4. Antipsychotics
5. Appetite suppressants (diet pills)
6. Central nervous system depressants
7. Opiates or synthetic opioids, Morphine, Vicodin, and the like
8. Medication for asthma, bronchitis or other breathing problems
RECOMMENDATIONS 1 WEEK BEFORE
Please commence your transformative journey by embarking on the Dieta.
FOODS TO AVOID
1. Alcohol of any type, including wine and beer, even minimal amounts in cough syrups
2. All street and recreational drugs, including Marijuana
3. Artificial sweeteners
4. Black, green, kava, matcha tea
5. Coffee
6. Dairy products (highly mucus forming)
7. Fermented and aged foods such as soy sauce, fermented dairy products, soybean paste,
tofu, bean curd, miso soup, teriyaki sauce, shrimp paste, and pickled foods
8. Onions, garlic
9. Overripe fruits (e.g., bananas)
10. Papaya (high in tyramine)
11. Pineapple (high in tyramine)
12. Processed sweets, chocolate, and anything with refined sugar and products containing
sugar (e.g., bread, sauces) unless homemade!
13. Processed, canned, sulfured food and chemical preservatives
14. Red meat (pork, beef, goat, tuna, eel, etc.)
15. Sourdough bread
16. Spicy and excessively salty foods
17. Specific medicinal herbs such as St. Johns Wort, Kava, Ephedra, Ginseng, Yohimbe,
Sinicuichi, Kratom
18. Various protein- and yeast-based extracts or supplements
19. Products high in gluten such as cakes, cookies, and white bread
PREFERRED FOODS
1. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
2. Fresh, locally grown, organic foods!
3. Fresh wild-caught fish
4. Herbal teas
5. Homemade bread, gluten-free
6. Little salt
7. Oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat, rice
8. Organic eggs
9. Organic fruits
10. Organic grilled chicken
11. Organic vegetables
12. Raw cashews or almonds, unsalted
13. Coconut or olive oil, sparingly
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES TO AVOID
1. Any form of sexual contact, including masturbation, is to be avoided.
2. Violent films and video games
3. Other intense psycho-mental or spiritual stimulation
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATION
1. Please consult with your doctor and us before taking any medications, other than aspirin/ibuprofen within 2 weeks of ceremony
2. If you are taking prescription drugs for high blood pressure, please notify us about the medication
3. Pregnant women are not permitted to participate in the ceremony
4. Avoid scheduling any dental work or surgery one week before and after the ceremony.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Embarking on a journey towards transformation spiritual growth is not always easy. It requires discipline, surrender, and a willingness to let go of habits that no longer serve us. But the rewards that come from clearing out our bodies and minds are truly priceless.
The Dieta may seem challenging at first, especially for those of us who rely on certain foods and intoxicants to cope with daily life. But through this process of surrender and discipline, we can create space for transformation and growth. By eliminating fatty and heavy foods, we allow our digestive system to rest and regenerate. By removing intoxicants, we purify our circulation and open up new channels for energy to flow. And by clearing our minds from impure thoughts, we create space for intention and focus.
The Dieta not only prepares us for the sacrament, but it also brings us into a state of energetic balance and alignment. By nourishing our bodies with fresh, organic foods and eliminating harmful substances, we create the optimal conditions for transformation and spiritual growth. And by embracing this process with openness and gratitude, we can unlock the full potential of our inner selves.
So let us embrace the challenge of the Dieta with open hearts and minds. Let us trust the process and surrender to the journey towards transformation and spiritual growth. For in doing so, we will unlock a deeper sense of purpose, clarity, and joy that will transform our lives forever.
MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL PREPARATION
“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean, in a drop.” ~Rumi
Becoming More Present and Facing What’s Inside
Imagine a vast ocean-like realm of your unconscious mind, where the veil that separates it from your conscious mind becomes more permeable, allowing for a deeper understanding of who you are. Before entering this sacred space, it's important to prepare yourself by exploring the many layers of your mind. By understanding the workings of your own psyche, you will be better equipped to navigate the possibilities that await you.
As humans, we all face painful experiences that can leave us feeling vulnerable and exposed. It's only natural to develop defenses and coping mechanisms to protect ourselves from emotional harm. However, these strategies can also limit our growth and prevent us from experiencing the fullness of life. Through expanded states of consciousness, we can begin to let go of these defenses and fears and tap into the core of our being. By facing our psychological material with courage and awareness, we can open ourselves up to a deeper level of growth and transformation.
When we face pain, our natural instinct is to avoid it at all costs. However, when we enter expanded states of consciousness, we open ourselves up to the possibility of confronting the hidden aspects of our ego structure. In doing so, we have the opportunity to become intimately familiar with the emotions that arise within us. The more we connect with these emotional states, the deeper our journey into expanded consciousness can take us. By embracing this process, we can unlock new levels of self-discovery and growth.
To embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, it is crucial to first bring mindfulness to our experiences. By cultivating awareness of our thoughts and emotions, we can prepare our minds for the journey ahead.
Naturally, the prospect of exploring the unknown terrains of our psyche can evoke feelings of unease and trepidation. But know that it is perfectly normal to feel apprehensive in the face of the unknown. With courage and an open heart, we can take the first step towards unlocking the hidden treasures of our soul.
Intentions over Expectations
In our everyday lives, we often hold onto expectations that can lead to feelings of disappointment. We try to maintain control over our schedules and routines, but unexpected disruptions can cause frustration and even loss. Meanwhile, the experiences we eagerly anticipate may fall short of our expectations because we have built them up in our minds. By releasing our attachments to expectations and embracing the present moment, we can cultivate a greater sense of peace and joy in our lives.
In order to get the most out of the journey, let us focus on intention, and let go of expectations. Simply surrender and let go.
Checklist
1. Cultivate mindfulness: Start by becoming more aware of your present experience. Observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment.
2. Explore your psyche: Take the time to understand the workings of your own psyche. Identify your coping behaviors, thinking patterns, habits, and fears.
3. Connect with your emotions: Become familiar with the content and current state of the emotions that arise within you. This may allow you to engage with your core material and expanded states of consciousness more profoundly.
4. Focus on Intentions/Release expectations: Let go of expectations and embrace the present moment. Focus on intention rather than attachment to outcomes.
5. Surrender and let go: Enter into expanded states of consciousness with courage and awareness. Let go of your psychological strategies and defenses and confront the hidden aspects of your ego structure.