In recent years, the wellness world has seen a major surge in the popularity of psychedelic wellness retreats. All across the globe, in countries like Spain, Jamaica, Mexico, and Portugal, willing participants can experience the mind-altering effects of psychedelics like psilocybin (magic mushrooms) and ayahuasca in a safe and controlled environment.
These retreats offer a chance to escape the daily grind, explore the depths of the mind and gain access to controversial mental health treatments for conditions like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, this once-accessible experience has now become more of a luxury. A luxury catered towards tech moguls and the 1%, with price tags ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for a week-to-month-long retreat, depending on the chosen location.
But despite these exorbitant price tags, there are still options out there for those looking to delve into the world of psychedelic wellness without breaking the bank. Whether you’re seeking a lavish getaway or a more down-to-earth experience, it’s worth exploring the different options available and finding one that aligns with your values and budget.
Please note: You may have read all the books, listened to all the Joe Rogan podcasts, and done all the research, but nothing can prepare you for an all-balls-out, shaman-guided psychedelic mushroom trip.
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You’ll be faced with some of life’s most profound treasures, as well as its most terrifying demons, all tucked deep inside your mind. This guide merely serves as a tool to assess your readiness for the journey ahead.
‘This is bat country’
When it comes to psychedelic retreats, punters have a wide variety of options to trip over — literally. Refugio Terraza de la Tierra, located in rural Mexico, offers a more rustic and natural setting with cabins costing between $35 and $50 per night, with psychedelic mushrooms being readily available in the area.
It’s a contrast to the more luxurious and expensive retreats, but it’s just one example of the diversity of options available for those seeking to explore the world of psychedelics and wellness. But if you’ve got deep pockets and are looking for a true experience, MycoMeditations, located in the heart of Treasure Beach, Jamaica, is a 10-day psychedelic experience worth bookmarking.
Picture this: You’re surrounded by lush Jamaican greenery. A shaman hands you a small capsule containing psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms. As you swallow the capsule and wait for the effects to kick in, you can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.
45 minutes go by and time begins to melt away. As you step into the unknown, you find yourself in a world of kaleidoscopic colours, where reality twists and turns in unexpected ways. You encounter strange and fantastical creatures, explore hidden landscapes, and travel through time and space.
For some, the experience may be emotional, intense, and downright scary. For others, it might be a peaceful and serene journey. Regardless of the specifics, the MycoMeditations retreat is said to be an opportunity to let go of the past, and the future and to be fully present in the moment.
You will have the opportunity to process your experiences with the help of experienced shamans and guides who are trained to provide support throughout the psychedelic journey. By the end of the retreat, most people report feeling renewed and rejuvenated with a newfound perspective on life itself.
Psychedelic acceptance
According to a recent survey, a staggering 5% of the global population has dabbled in the world of psychedelics, with magic mushrooms being the most popular choice followed by LSD and mescaline.
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In the United States, the use of psychedelics is on the rise with a 55% increase in usage since 2015. But it’s not just recreational use that’s making headlines. The therapeutic potential of psychedelics is being explored and psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, was recently granted “breakthrough therapy” status by the FDA for the treatment of depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
LSD is also being studied for its potential in treating end-of-life anxiety and addiction.
But despite the growing interest and potential benefits, psychedelics remain illegal in most countries. However, there’s a push to change that with cities such as Denver, Oakland, and Santa Cruz in the US, and cities in Canada, Portugal, and Jamaica leading the charge in decriminalisation and legalisation efforts.
These actions aim to pave the way for further research, and a more compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy. The American Medical Association predicts that the majority of US states will legalise the medicinal use of psychedelics by 2034 to 2037. So we can expect the popularity of psychedelic wellness retreats to explode over the next decade or so.
As we break down the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding psychedelics, we open the door to a whole new realm of possibilities.
With the help of these substances, individuals can heal from trauma and mental health issues, unlock their creative potential, and find a deeper sense of purpose and connection to the world around them.
