Prior to scheduling my trip to Rythmia, I did some research on Ayahuasca retreats and Rythmia appeared to be the best choice - plus I received a recommendation from a trusted, spiritual friend who had been there. Rythmia exceeded all descriptions I had read or heard about. The most important thing to mention is that RYTHMIA, THROUGH ITS ENTIRE STAFF, IS GENUINELY DEDICATED TO ASSISTING THE GUESTS IN ACHIEVING SIGNIFICANT, LASTING IMPROVEMENTS IN THEIR LIVES. The staff strongly encourages guests to attend meetings that (i) prepare them for the Ayahuasca ceremonies in order to achieve maximum, meaningful benefits from each ceremony, and (ii) help them assimilate the life-truths that are revealed to them via the Ayahuasca and the ceremonies. Without the instruction from the Rythmia experts I believe that the Ayahuasca (medicine) would not provide near the life-changing benefits that every guest receives. I bought books authored by Rythmia staff and joined Instagram accounts so I can continue to receive the important messages they convey. John Jacob Mubarak is one of the lecturers whose Instagram I joined, and I love seeing the daily insights he posts. The accommodations are first class and the rooms and grounds are impeccably maintained. The photos on the website do not begin to capture the beauty of Rythmia. I'll never forget stepping out of the Maloca on the morning following the final Ayahuasca ceremony and viewing the perfectly maintained, lush grounds and trees full of a flock of Macaws that roost on the Rythmia grounds. Any maintenance equipment is hidden from view behind the painted walls that surround Rythmia. The walls blend in nicely with the surroundings and provide unobtrusive security. Maintenance workers – who all greet each guest with a smile and “buenos dias” – are out each morning to make sure there are no stray leaves or debris remain on the pathways. All staff are kind and attentive. Most know your name and greet you each time they see you. In particular, the Roots Restaurant staff is wonderful. I have traditionally scoffed at vegan diets, but I now have a new appreciation for such foods (no, I am not vegan, but I did buy a cookbook by Meg, the chef and am cooking some of the dishes). The food was very tasty and healthy – I filled my plate (usually twice) from the buffet at each meal. The spa, with its steam, mud bath, hot tub and cold plunge, was first class. The massage therapists were very skilled and can go as “deep” as you wish. I spent much of my available recreation time in the outdoor spa area grabbing some sunshine (intense sun – lather up the sunscreen!), steam, hot tub and cold plunge with the good friends I made instantly. I brought my work out clothes to use in the ample gym, but didn’t take them out of my suitcase as usual – who was I kidding? There were too many other meaningful distractions and I knew I would return to caring for my “temple” when I got home. Due to the nature of the retreat, the guests have much in common and form quick bonds. We were laughing with, teasing, comforting and hugging each other from the first moments (including the shuttle ride from the airport!). Rythmia forms a retreat-specific Facebook page so the guests can easily remain in contact. This is not a relaxation retreat. Monday evening through Friday morning is rather rigorous – meaning you will not get as much sleep as usual, and your schedule will be somewhat busy; though there is ample time for massages, walks, and visiting with your new friends. The ceremonies begin at dusk and continue into the wee hours of the morning. They are conducted by a dedicated Shaman and his or her “Shaman group.” Very importantly, the Shamans are truly sincere with respect to the ceremonies and traditions which go back an estimated 5000 years. This is not like a Six Flags re-creation of a gunfight at OK corral. It is deeply spiritual and genuine. Each ceremony has similarities and unique aspects – and uses different Ayahuasca “recipes.” In the final ceremony, which does not end until after sunrise and a download, you drink Yage, a rather potent form of Ayahuasca. Everyone receives meaningful revelations during this ceremony. The Shaman during our final ceremony is well-known and extremely gifted (I wish I could remember his name). As part of this ceremony, every guest receives an individual blessing in the “healing circle,” during which enchanting live music is played by an indigenous group [throughout the entire ceremony amazing music is played either by the band or through the fantastic sound system] and two different Shamans chant over you for what seemed like almost 10 minutes each, physically putting their hands on your head and “brushing” you with a “fan” of palms. They also apply special essences to your skin. In the download following the ceremony I stated (and still feel) that I had never felt so respected and special than when the Shamans blessed me in the healing circle. Yes, almost everyone vomits during one or more or the ceremonies – I did once during the second ceremony. But honestly, it is not like vomiting when you have some illness – and it only lasts a few minutes and then it is over. We are told, and I believe, that if you vomit, it is more than just physical matter leaving your body. It is a symbolic reaction indicating that things you no longer need are leaving your body [my interpretation of what was said by the Rythmia team]. Further, there is no smell of vomit at all in the Maloca, though the vomiting sounds are pretty impressive. Finally, we were well informed about the “Story of Gerry,” the founder of Rythmia. Let’s say he led a “colorful” life prior to the miracle he received via plant medicine under the direction and constant consultation of a Shaman. Gerry was forever changed by the experience and completely changed his “interesting” way of life. I was happy to meet Gerry on the Saturday following the last ceremony. His total devotion to making the world a better place by giving guests the knowledge and tools to be “light workers/warriors” was apparent. Rythmia/Gerry are genuine in this intent. I received significant enlightenment from my Rythmia retreat. I have no plans to return at this moment, but at any time I feel that I need to rediscover “Who have I become,” I will be right back at Rythmia.
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