FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
In recent years, Ayahuasca ceremonies have gained significant popularity as a means for spiritual exploration and personal healing. However, embarking on an Ayahuasca journey requires thorough preparation to ensure a safe and meaningful experience. In this article, we will explore the essential aspects of Ayahuasca preparation, guiding you through the necessary steps for a transformative and enlightening adventure.
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How do I get there?Pandorita is only accessible by boat ride, which is included in your booking price. We will pick you up in Puerto Jiménez, Costa Rica. Regardless of how you reach Puerto Jiménez, your travel will first bring you to San Jose International Airport (SJO). From there, you may either rent a car one-way and drive (appx. 5-6 hours) or fly with Sansa Airlines (appx. 1 hour) to Puerto Jiménez (PJM). You will receive additional information upon booking. In the meantime, please ask us about accommodations in San Jose and Puerto Jiménez!
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What should I pack?Pack whatever you normally travel with, and we also recommend the following: Clothing Lightweight pants Lightweight long-sleeved t-shirt Shorts T-shirts Bathing suit(s) Hat Rain poncho or jacket Sandals Comfortable clothing (no buttons or zippers) for ceremonies Optional: quick-dry socks and athletic shoes (beware of mud stains). We have rubber boots available, but bring athletic shoes if you prefer them for your hikes. Additional Travel insurance Mosquito repellent Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred) Headlamp with both white- and red-light functions Optional: camera Optional: binoculars Optional: musical instruments Optional: waterproof bag/cover/backpack Please note: it is recommended that you understand your electronic devices and musical instruments tolerances for humidity before bringing them to Pandorita. We very rarely have any issues; however, the humidity has damaged a few items in the past.
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Do I need vaccinations?Please consult your physician or a travel health professional about recommended vaccinations before departure. You will also be able to find more information about travel to Costa Rica on your home country’s State Department or Health Department website.
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Should I bring cash?This is optional, but recommended. The local currency is Costa Rican colones (CRC), though many locations accept USD. Having local currency is not necessary unless you are driving, in which case you will pay a small amount of cash in toll fees. We do recommend bringing cash for the Shipibo Market at Pandorita, where the onanyabo offer artisanal clothing, jewelry, and carved goods for sale.
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Do you have WiFi?As much as we encourage you to “disconnect to reconnect,” our internet is pretty great. Pandorita is covered by multiple cellular networks and we have fast, reliable WiFi at multiple locations throughout the property.
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What if there is a medical emergency?We are located 40 minutes from the nearest clinic and have emergency protocols in place to minimize harm. If you are at risk of needing urgent medical care, please inform us during your intake screening.
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Which languages are spoken in Costa Rica and at Pandorita?Spanish is the national language of Costa Rica, though many locals kindly speak some amount of English. At Pandorita, English and Spanish are always spoken, and sometimes French, German, Tamil, Hindi, Azeri, and Farsi as well depending on which members of the Pandorita family are home at the time. If you require translation for any language other than Spanish or English, please ask in advance whether someone will be available at the time of your retreat.
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Will I see animals there?Yes! We have two dogs on property, Baloo and Gira, who eagerly await your affection. We also have a cat and her kittens (less often seen). As for wild animals, please do not touch or feed any of our wild friends, but you may see... howler monkeys spider monkeys scarlet macaws (guacamayo) the Great Curassow (gran pavón) blue morpho butterflies hummingbirds (colibrí) toucans fruit bats sloths jaguars pumas manta rays dolphins whales sea turtles flying fish crocodiles boa constrictors iguanas and many more!
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What is there to "do" at Pandorita?We find that most people spend their days calmly reflecting on the lessons of their ceremonies. However, there's lots to do at Pandorita! In addition to the activities we have planned for you, you are always welcome to use our: full-face and half-mask snorkels and flippers yoga mats and yoga deck hammocks hiking trails and rubber boots kayaks (two-person and one-person available) stand-up paddle boards binoculars (we have a couple of extra pairs for animal watching)
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Is Ayahuasca dangerous?Medical and scientific understanding of Ayahuasca is evolving as more interest and funding becomes available, but is still incomplete. Currently, Ayahuasca itself is not known to be inherently dangerous, but when combined with other substances or pre-existing conditions, it can be dangerous. Ayahuasca is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which can have dangerous and even fatal interactions when combined with certain other substances, especially SSRIs, dextromethorphan, amphetamines, and MDMA, but also including over-the-counter meds and even some dietary supplements (most notably, St. John’s Wort and tryptophan). It is also not recommended to take Ayahuasca if suffering from certain mental health or physical conditions, including many cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, pregnancy, seizure disorders, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia and schizo-effective disorders. We screen for these interactions in our intake interview, but ultimately it is your responsibility to be honest about and aware of your individual situation and limitations.
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What are the ingredients in Ayahuasca? How does it work?What is Ayahuasca? What's in it? The word "Ayahuasca" refers both to the Banisteriopsis caapi vine, and to the brew made with B. caapi and other ingredients. While the ingredients added to the Ayahuasca brew vary from tradition to tradition, and from curandero to curandero, the combination most commonly understood as ayahuasca is that of B. caapi and Psychotria viridis (popularly known as "chacruna"). This combination is what we serve at Pandorita. How does it work? The truest thing we can tell you is that it works by magic. As far as the biology goes, however, the short story is that Ayahuasca temporarily inhibits a substance in our body that would otherwise break down the chemicals from the chacruna that give us psychedelic experiences. For those more scientifically minded, B. caapi contains beta-carbolines (harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine), and the active component in P. viridis is dimethyltryptamine (DMT, or "the spirit molecule"). The beta-carbolines in B. caapi act as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which allows the DMT in P. viridis to have an oral effect where it would otherwise be degraded by the monoamine oxidase present in the human body. But, again, the real answer is "magic." It is not uncommon for people to drink B. caapi alone and experience powerful visions, even though there is no known mechanism by which they should be having psychedelic experiences. Ayahuasca is part science, part magic.
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Is this legal?Yes. It is legal for you to drink Ayahuasca in Costa Rica. The law is entirely neutral: there is no law concerning the consumption of Ayahuasca or its active ingredients. Please note that Costa Rica is one of very few countries in which Ayahuasca is legal, and we do not promote its consumption outside of those few jurisdictions.
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How long are the ceremonies?Ceremonies generally last between three and six hours. Your perception of time, however, may be a different story.
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What is "the diet"?You will be required to follow the Ayahuasca Diet while at Pandorita. This means: NO added/refined sugars NO salt NO pork NO alcoholic beverages NO drugs NO sexual contact Some of these things are a matter of medical safety, some of these things are included to allow you to go deeper in your ceremonies, and some of these are included out of reverence for traditional customs and to ensure that you maintain focus on yourself and your journey. It is recommended that you start this diet before coming to Pandorita - the more time, the better. It is also recommended to wean yourself off of caffeine if your intake is such that you might get migraines or other unpleasant symptoms without it. We ask that you continue the diet for at least one week after leaving, to better integrate your experience and for a smoother transition. Please note: the Ayahuasca Diet is not to be confused with shamanic plant dietas. We do not offer dietas at Pandorita. You may find yourself interested in this work after your time at Pandorita; if so, please inquire with our Peruvian sister facility, Ani Shinan, for more information.
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Is this right for me?This is a question we can better answer in your intake screening. However, we have seen a lot of improvement for many different ailments, and the common thread seems to be "willingness." Are you willing to let go of what hurts you? Do you have a pretty good sense of humor? (Listen, Ayahuasca isn't always pretty.) Are you willing to do hard work, and follow the lessons you learn in your ceremonies? If so, then you're probably a great candidate. All Ayahuasca asks of you is willingness. All we ask of you is willingness. There are no guarantees, but if you show up with an open mind and a bit of courage and commitment, magic might just happen.
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Why Costa Rica and not the Amazon?Accessibility. We have a sister facility, Ani Shinan, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, where we offer additional retreats and dietas. However, the Amazon can be challenging to reach, especially for those with certain physical ailments, and so we wanted a more accessible location. Our partnership with Ani Shinan allows us to bring authentic healers and authentic medicine straight to Pandorita, our Amazon-away-from-home. The Ocean. Pandorita is nestled in one of very few places in the world where rainforest and the ocean meet. We believe the combination of the rainforest's primal energy and the ocean's soothing waters create a healing environment that is nothing short of magical. It is wonderful to have the support and cleansing of the warm waters at our feet. Opportunity. Pandorita called to us. She came into our care through truly good luck, and she has given us wonderful opportunities to work with the Costa Rican government and local NGOs to conserve and restore the surrounding ecosystem, which is fully aligned with our vision for humanity and its role on this planet. She cares for us as we care for her, a beautiful energy that we look forward to sharing with you.
UNDERSTANDING AYAHUASCA
A BRIEF OVERVIEW
Ayahuasca, a powerful plant medicine originating from the Amazon rainforest, is made by combining the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of the Psychotria viridis shrub. The brew contains DMT, a potent psychedelic compound known for inducing profound spiritual experiences. Proper preparation is crucial to navigating the intense effects of Ayahuasca safely.
RESEARCH AND EDUCATION
Before attending an Ayahuasca ceremony, invest time in understanding the history, traditions, and effects of Ayahuasca. Read books, watch documentaries, and explore reputable websites to gather comprehensive knowledge. Understanding what to expect mentally, emotionally, and physically is vital for mental preparedness.
PREPARE MENTALLY AND EMOTIONALLY
Ayahuasca journeys can bring forth intense emotions and suppressed memories. Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga to center yourself emotionally. Reflect on your intentions for the ceremony and be open to the insights and healing it may bring. Emotional readiness is key to navigating the Ayahuasca experience.
CHOOSE A REPUTABLE SHAMAN OR FACILITATOR
Selecting the right shaman or facilitator can significantly impact your Ayahuasca experience. Research their background, read reviews, and seek recommendations from those who have previously attended ceremonies. A trustworthy and experienced guide will provide a safe environment and proper guidance throughout the ceremony.
PACK MINDFULLY
When attending an Ayahuasca ceremony, pack essentials such as comfortable clothing, a water bottle, a journal, and a pen. Additionally, bring items that hold personal significance, such as crystals or talismans, to provide comfort and grounding during the ceremony.
FOLLOW THE RIGHT DIET
Preparing your body is as important as preparing your mind. The Ayahuasca diet typically involves avoiding certain foods and substances in the weeks leading up to the ceremony. Common restrictions include alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, dairy, spicy foods, and sexual activities. Explore the intricacies of the Ayahuasca diet and essential guidelines for your journey. Adhering to the diet helps cleanse your body and enhances the effectiveness of the Ayahuasca brew.
APPROACH WITH RESPECT AND HUMILITY
Approach the Ayahuasca ceremony with respect, humility, and gratitude. Set clear intentions for your journey, whether it’s healing from past traumas, gaining spiritual insights, or seeking clarity about your life’s purpose. The Ayahuasca experience often mirrors the intentions set by participants.
In conclusion, Ayahuasca preparation is a holistic process that involves mental, emotional, and physical readiness. By investing time in research, choosing the right guide, following the Ayahuasca diet, and approaching the experience with reverence, you can embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and healing. Remember, safety and well-being should always be the top priorities during an Ayahuasca ceremony. By adequately preparing yourself, you pave the way for a profound and enlightening experience that can positively impact your life.
THE AYAHUASCA DIET
ESSENTIAL NUTRITION GUIDELINES
The Ayahuasca ceremony, an ancient shamanic practice attracting seekers of spiritual experiences and healing worldwide, requires crucial preparation known as the Ayahuasca Diet or “Dieta.” This dietary regimen involves specific rules and restrictions to enhance the safety and effectiveness of the experience. One common question arises: What foods are permissible before an Ayahuasca ceremony?
Why is the Ayahuasca Diet Important?
The Ayahuasca Diet is not only a physical preparation but also a spiritual practice initiated weeks before the planned ceremony. It aims to cleanse and sensitize the body for a deeper spiritual connection during the ceremony. Certain foods and substances can interact with Ayahuasca, potentially causing uncomfortable or even dangerous side effects. Participants need to consider the crucial aspect of interaction between Ayahuasca and specific foods in their preparation. Tyramine, an amino acid found in various foods, can accumulate in the body under the influence of the MAO inhibitor in Ayahuasca. Although the effects are generally mild, understanding potential consequences is crucial. The MAO inhibitor in Ayahuasca blocks the Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) enzyme responsible for breaking down Tyramine. When this enzyme is blocked, Tyramine levels can rise, triggering undesirable reactions.
The release of adrenaline caused by Tyramine accumulation can lead to temporary discomforts such as headaches, sweating, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. It’s essential to emphasize that these symptoms are generally considered mild and have not caused serious harm thus far. However, individuals with high blood pressure or heart issues should limit the intake of Tyramine-containing foods, including aged cheese, fermented products, certain sausages, soy sauce, and some alcoholic beverages. A conscious and tailored diet before the Ayahuasca ceremony is a crucial step to minimize unwanted reactions. Open communication with ceremony leaders and support teams, considering experiences and individual needs, is vital. A responsible approach to nutrition ensures a safer and more profound Ayahuasca experience.
General Rules and Restrictions of the Ayahuasca Diet
Seven days before the ceremony, painkillers, sexual activities, pork, and alcohol are not allowed. Drugs and psychoactive medications should be discontinued a month earlier. On the day of your diet, you should not eat anything from noon onwards and refrain from drinking anything up to 5 hours before.
Allowed Foods before an Ayahuasca Ceremony
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Fresh fruits and vegetables: Fresh, non-acidic fruits and vegetables are a good choice. Apples, bananas, carrots, and leafy greens are generally safe.
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Rice and quinoa: These gluten-free grains are easily digestible and a good source of energy.
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Chicken and fish: Lean protein like chicken and fish can be consumed in moderation.
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Herbal teas: Caffeine-free herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint are allowed and can have a calming effect.
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Water: Adequate hydration is important. Drink plenty of water to support the body.
Foods to Avoid
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Alcohol
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Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages should be avoided as they can affect the effects of Ayahuasca.
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Spicy spices: Spicy spices can irritate the stomach.
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Fermented foods: Fermented foods like sauerkraut, soy, or canned items can affect the digestive tract and should be avoided.
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Aged cheese: Opt for young cheese like ricotta, cream cheese, or mozzarella.
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Medications: It’s important to inform the shaman or the person leading the ceremony about any medication intake, as some medications and herbs may interact with Ayahuasca. An experienced leader can recommend individual adjustments.
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St. John’s Wort: It elevates mood, but don’t mix it with Ayahuasca – it could affect the effect. Better save it for another day.
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Valerian: Relaxation yes, but not with Ayahuasca. Ayahuasca and valerian don’t mix well. Better leave out the valerian.
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Kava Kava: Can irritate the stomach, so it’s better to avoid.
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Lemongrass: Tasty in soup, but avoid it before Ayahuasca. It increases stomach acid production, which could disturb the ceremony.
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Peppermint: Fresh breath is good, but peppermint could dampen the Ayahuasca effect. Avoid peppermint lozenges for a while.
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Red meat: Red meat is hard to digest and should be avoided to support the body’s cleansing. Beware! Pork is strictly prohibited in the Dieta as well!
Why should you not eat pork before an Ayahuasca ceremony?
The Shipibos say that consuming pork during the Dieta phase can lead to white spots on the skin. These spots are interpreted as a kind of symbolic defense or allergic reaction of the body. It’s as if the body is resisting this specific food, a metaphor for the spiritual conflicts that can arise during the Dieta. Another fascinating tradition states that indulging in pork during the Dieta can cause diarrhea – a figurative excretion of spiritual energy. This loss is perceived as a direct impairment of the Dieta’s strength. The notion that spiritual energy is literally excreted adds a profound symbolic dimension to the abstention from certain foods.
More than just nutrition
However, this is about much more than just food. It’s an attempt to distance oneself from ordinary human impulses. For example, sex is also forbidden during this time. It represents an aspect of human existence from which one withdraws for a certain period to gain clarity. In a way, something is sacrificed – comparable to the coin given to the ferryman across the Styx to gain access to this space of openness for teachings and full concentration. The entire endeavor is marked by resistance – against temptations, against distractions. Strengthening one’s own mind happens through the conscious acceptance of such challenges. In doing so, one shows not only physical but also energetic readiness and thus gains the attention of the plants, recognizing one as a genuinely interested seeker during the ceremony.
Conclusion
The Ayahuasca Diet is not only a physical preparation but also a spiritual practice that begins weeks before the ceremony. It cleanses the body and sensitizes it for a deeper spiritual connection during the Ayahuasca ceremony. The interaction between Ayahuasca and specific foods, especially those containing Tyramine, can lead to uncomfortable side effects. The diet rules include avoiding painkillers, sexual activity, pork, alcohol, and discontinuing medications a month earlier. Allowed are fresh fruits, vegetables, gluten-free grains, lean protein, herbal teas, and adequate hydration. Coffee, spicy spices, fermented foods, aged cheese, and specific herbs should be avoided. The prohibition of pork has symbolic significance on both physical and spiritual levels.
The diet requires not only conscious nutrition but also the abstention from ordinary human impulses like sex. This deliberate withdrawal represents sacrificing habits for clarity on the spiritual journey. Through this practice, one signals not only physical but also energetic readiness, heightening the attention of the plants during the ceremony.
BOOKING
We would like to offer those who are new to the world of ayahuasca the opportunity to talk to our experts in advance. We encourage you to book a consultation call, if you feel unsure or need further information.
If you suffer from severe mental instability, heart issues or high blood pressure the consultation call is mandatory before making a definitive booking.
This way we can find out together whether this adventure journey is suitable for you.
