Since being back in North America, I have been watching the emergence of the plant medicines in the Western culture from therapeutic settings to ceremonial gatherings. I discovered that we are approaching these medicines with a different mindset than the indigenous communities and sometimes we lack necessary foundational knowledge.
It is very important that facilitators create a safe environment to provide a strong and protective space for the participants. They should also have experience and knowledge in working with plant medicines so support and guidance can be offered when necessary. Everyone will have their own unique journey and assistance may be required for some.
Another essential component is the physical, emotional, and spiritual integration after ceremony. Gathering together in a way that allows each participant to share their experience and gain insight from the facilitator into what they received in ceremony is important. Each participant should have at least a basic understanding of their journey and how to implement it into their daily lives. Everyone should be grounded and balanced before going home so they are not walking into the world open and vulnerable. There are many techniques available to insure this.
The skills that we are being taught by the indigenous cultures are valuable in gaining a deeper understanding of the ancient spirits we are engaging. I have found when these teachings are properly integrated with Western culture we can be successful in accessing a deeper healing and expansion that we all seek.
It is very important that facilitators create a safe environment to provide a strong and protective space for the participants. They should also have experience and knowledge in working with plant medicines so support and guidance can be offered when necessary. Everyone will have their own unique journey and assistance may be required for some.
Another essential component is the physical, emotional, and spiritual integration after ceremony. Gathering together in a way that allows each participant to share their experience and gain insight from the facilitator into what they received in ceremony is important. Each participant should have at least a basic understanding of their journey and how to implement it into their daily lives. Everyone should be grounded and balanced before going home so they are not walking into the world open and vulnerable. There are many techniques available to insure this.
The skills that we are being taught by the indigenous cultures are valuable in gaining a deeper understanding of the ancient spirits we are engaging. I have found when these teachings are properly integrated with Western culture we can be successful in accessing a deeper healing and expansion that we all seek.