Last year, I had the chance to spend some time at a place called Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Costa Rica. It was a big change from my busy life, juggling work and family, and it turned out to be quite the adventure. Before I dive into what Rythmia was like, let me give you a bit of background.
After attending a festival, a friend gave me a book about the healing potential of a special brew called Ayahuasca, traditionally used by shamans. This sparked my interest, and years later, I found myself heading to Rythmia, known for its work with this plant medicine.
Getting Ready for the Experience
Arriving in Costa Rica was a mix of excitement and nerves. Rythmia starts with a cleansing ritual known as a dieta to prepare for the Ayahuasca ceremony. This means eating clean and getting your mind right. I had to do fasting and abstain from alcohol, drugs, and reduce my caffeine consumption. It was all new to me, but I was ready for whatever was coming.
The Week at Rythmia
Nothing could have prepared me for my first ceremony. It was intense and eye-opening. These were led by the shamans which they conducted with care and reverence. With these ceremonies, I saw parts of myself I never knew existed and faced some deep-seated fears. The experience was hard to describe, but it felt like a journey within.
The week was packed with activities – workshops, yoga sessions, and integration classes. They have Dance of Liberation™ and “The Answer is You” program, specifically designed for Rythmia by Michael Bernard Beckwith. All of this was set in the beautiful nature of Costa Rica, and to be honest, it was definitely healing. But, it was a lot to take in, especially with so many people there for the same reason. In the end, our group really bonded and we became close friends after having shared a truly special experience.
The Good and the Not-so-good
Heading to Rythmia for an ayahuasca retreat is quite the ride, but it’s not all smooth sailing. The emotional rollercoaster is real; you’re likely to dig up some deep stuff that can be tough to handle. Then, trying to fit all those big revelations into your everyday life? That’s a whole other challenge. It’s like the retreat hands you a puzzle that you’ve got to figure out how to piece together back home. Luckily, Rythmia has an app to address the post retreat integration. And remember, not everyone’s trip is the same – some people have mind-blowing experiences, while others might find the changes more subtle because you need to integrate and continue the hard work you started when you’re back at home. Just roll with it and keep an open mind.
A Personal Reflection
Despite these challenges, my time at Rythmia was unforgettable. I met incredible people, including a blind woman whose strength and positivity were inspiring. It made me appreciate the simple things in life, like the beauty of nature and the power of human connection.
Final Thoughts
My journey to Rythmia taught me a lot about myself and the world around me. It reminded me to live in the moment and choose love over fear. Although not perfect, Rythmia offered a unique opportunity for growth and healing. I hope future visitors find the same chance for personal discovery, perhaps with a more personal touch.
In the end, life is about the moments we choose to create and the paths we decide to walk. My path led me to Rythmia, and for that, I am grateful. It’s a chapter of my life I’ll always remember, not just for the experience itself but for the lessons it taught me about love, healing, and the power of the human spirit.
