Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Psychedelic Retreat?
A psychedelic retreat is a structured program that combines guided psychedelic experiences with various therapeutic and spiritual practices. These retreats are designed to provide a supportive environment for individuals seeking personal growth, healing, and exploration through the use of psychedelics.
Are Psychedelic Retreats Legal?
The legal status of psychedelic retreats varies by location. It is essential to research and understand the legal framework of the specific retreat destination. Our retreats adhere to local laws and regulations, and we prioritize the safety and well-being of our participants.
Who Can Attend a Psychedelic Retreat?
Participants typically need to be adults 18+, and may have to meet specific eligibility criteria. It's important for participants to disclose any medical conditions or medications they are taking to ensure their safety during the retreat.
What Psychedelic Substances are Used?
Healing Escapes works with psilocybin. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms. It belongs to a class of compounds known as tryptamines and is specifically found in mushrooms of the Psilocybe genus, commonly referred to as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms." Psilocybin has been used for centuries in various cultural and religious practices for its hallucinogenic effects. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the body, which is the active form responsible for its psychoactive effects. Psilocin interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, leading to altered perception, mood, and cognition. The effects of psilocybin-containing mushrooms can include visual distortions, changes in perception of time, enhanced sensory experiences, and a heightened sense of introspection. Users often describe a sense of interconnectedness and profound spiritual or mystical experiences.
How Are Participants Prepared for the Retreat?
Prior to the retreat, participants undergo a thorough screening process. This includes our clinical screening and discussions about mental health. Pre-retreat preparation may involve educational sessions, intention-setting, and dietary guidelines to optimize the experience.
What Safety Measures are in Place?
Safety is our top priority. Our retreats are staffed with trained facilitators and medical professionals. Emergency protocols are in place, and participants are closely monitored throughout the retreat experience to ensure a secure and supportive environment.
Can I Bring Medications or Supplements?
Participants are advised to discuss their medications and supplements with our Logistics Coordinator and their medical providers during the screening process. Some substances may interact with psychedelics, and adjustments may be necessary for safety reasons.
What Happens During the Psychedelic Sessions?
A typical therapeutic session will last between 4-6 hours. During this time, you will be listening to a curated playlist and be in a private (pre-established) space on the villa property with your guide. Your guide will “hold space” for you as you embark on your journey and offer support (cold towel, warm blanket, gentle touch on shoulder as previously agreed upon) as needed. Our experienced guides are emotionally attuned and offer a place of safety for you “lean in” to the medicine and experience. Your guide will be taking notes and in some cases taking photos of you in your experience (if previously agreed upon) to share with you after your journey experience. Participants are encouraged to explore their inner experiences, emotions, and thoughts. Both individual and group integration sessions as well as somatic integration exercises follow to emphasize the connection of mind-body-spirit and build upon the insights gained through the psychedelic journey.
Is Integration Support Provided After the Retreat?
Yes! Integration support is a crucial aspect of our retreats. We offer integration sessions, post retreat support sessions, resources, and guidance to help participants integrate their experiences into their daily lives for lasting positive effects.
What happens if I contract COVID-19 and cannot attend the retreat?
We understand that unforeseen circumstances, such as contracting COVID-19, may impact your ability to attend the retreat. In such cases, we offer a flexible rebooking policy to accommodate your needs.
Do you have access for people with disabilities?
Most of our retreat villas are accessible with people with disabilities. Please reach out to our Logistics Coordinator to discuss the villa for your desired dates: berenice@healingescapesfoundation.org
What is a typical daily schedule?
The daily schedule will vary depending upon the type of retreat and size of group. However, you visit our Instagram social media page, you can see in more detail what to expect: Instagram @healingescapes
Can I come for just part of a retreat?
For the benefit of everyone, we ask that all participants commit to attending the entire retreat, arriving for the beginning of the retreat and staying until the end. Your wholehearted commitment supports your fellow retreatants and expresses respect for the retreat facilitators and staff who are committed to being here and freely give their time and energy to serve the welfare of all. However, there are circumstances that allow us to be flexible. Inquire about your unique needs with our Logistics Coordinator: berenice@healingescapesfoundation.org
Can I stay extra days, before or after my retreat?
You have the option to arrive early or stay later beyond the retreat dates, but please note that any additional time will be considered outside the official retreat period. For such extended periods, you are responsible for arranging your own transportation and accommodation. Transportation to and from the retreat site will only be provided on the day the retreat commences and concludes, specifically from the airport.
Why do you offer 1:1 guided journeys vs the group experience like other retreat centers offer?
We have trained and experimented with offering psychedelic guided journeys in both contexts (individual and as a group). It is through our experience with both modalities of treatment that we insist on offering the 1:1 guide/journey (albeit more costly to the agency) as we prioritize your need for privacy and safety above all else. We are intentional in creating a safe container (set and setting) that is as reasonably free from distraction or influence of other participants.
When journeying solo (with your appointed guide), you are not interrupted or limited by other participants' expression of experience - whether they may be calling out loudly in joyous proclamation or sorrowful anguish. We provide you with undivided attention- sitting (or walking in some cases) alongside you during the entire length of your 4 to 6 hours experience and support you in the pre-established ways that had been agreed upon. There are several group activities that are interwoven into the retreat experience that are designed to foster a sense of community amongst all, and to increase your overall psychological well being and connectedness.
Can I connect with you on social media?