Mushroom Therapy: Creating a Healing and/or an Ayahuasca-type of experience with Psilocybin at EPIC Healing Eugene - Working with Cathy Jonas, LCSW, Licensed Facilitator
Review: “Special note to folks who have sat with Mother Ayahuasca:
A Psilocybin-assisted, crystal singing bowl choir accompanied by Cathy's gift-given Icaros, is truly a special experience…”
Ayahuasca and psilocybin share several similarities that contribute to their potential for healing and transformation. Both substances facilitate profound introspective journeys, encouraging users to explore the depths of their consciousness. They can evoke intense emotional experiences, promote feelings of interconnectedness, and offer insights into personal challenges and traumas.
Similarities between Ayahuasca and Psilocybin:
Altered States of Consciousness: Both ayahuasca and psilocybin induce altered states that can lead to heightened awareness, emotional releases, and powerful visions. This shift in perception allows individuals to confront and process deep-seated beliefs and past hurts.
Spiritual and Therapeutic Insights: Participants often report spiritual awakenings, insights about their life purpose, and clarity on personal issues, whether through the traditional ceremonial context of ayahuasca or guided psilocybin sessions (Guided psilocybin sessions are also referred to as Mushroom Therapy, where the psilocybin is considered the primary therapist). Each experience can lead to profound personal transformation.
Set and Setting: Both substances emphasize the importance of the environment in which they are consumed. The “Set” includes an individual’s mindset and intentions, and their readiness and preparedness for the experience. EPIC Healing and Radiant Heart assist with this process. The “Setting” is a safe, nurturing space that enhances the therapeutic potential of the experience. This is akin to shamans singing icaros during ayahuasca ceremonies, creating a supportive atmosphere for healing. At EPIC Healing, we offer a variety of music and other comforts. The houseplants in EPIC”s Garden Room, along with its welcoming outdoor courtyard space invite clients to form a deeper connection with nature, enhancing feelings of healing and interconnection.
Physical & Emotional Release: While more common in an ayahuasca experience, “purging” in the form of crying, body shakes, sounds (even songs), spitting or vomiting can happen when a person is engaged in a deep healing experience. Cathy Jonas, LCSW and energy healer, from EPIC Healing & Radiant Heart, often refers to this type of release as an “opportunity” for locked-in or stuck energy to move, which can be cathartic and a pivotal aspect to healing. A purging release can happen when something, often this can be related to a core nugget of a person’s trauma, wants to or is ready to move. If a person can “lean into the experience” a release can happen. Thus, purging in whatever forms it comes, is the opportunity to “let go” of the old baggage, allowing a shift and healing to come. As Cathy often tells her clients, “Don’t be afraid of the purge; it’s just an opportunity for some deep healing to occur, and I’ll be there with you every step of the way.”
Utilizing Psilocybin for a Healing Experience:
To replicate the transformative power of ayahuasca using psilocybin, consider combining the experience with intentional practices that foster healing:
Guided Sessions: Participate in guided psilocybin sessions at a licensed center, Oregon and the Nation’s first one being EPIC Healing Eugene, where trained facilitators from our Radiant Heart Consulting staff create a supportive environment. The presence of a skilled guide can mirror the role of a shaman by providing emotional support and structure throughout the experience. At EPIC Healing and sister facilitation company, Radiant Heart, a variety of package options are offered, in addition to more customized services and retreats.
Integrative Music Practices: Incorporate music as part of the psilocybin experience. Just as shamans use icaros, consider engaging with music that resonates on a deep level. Cathy Jonas’s Earthsongs, for example, can serve as a therapeutic backdrop, enhancing emotional release and connection during the journey. Visit Cathy’s Radiant Heart Bio to learn more about her facilitation services at EPIC. At EPIC Healing, we also offer a variety of curated musical option, including the option of live music (such as guitar) with some of our facilitators.
Preparation and Integration: Prior to the session, spend time reflecting on your intentions and goals. After the experience, engage in integration practices such as journaling, meditation, or therapy to help assimilate the insights gained, similar to the community and follow-up processes seen in ayahuasca traditions. At EPIC Healing Eugene, we offer five hours of individual preparation and integration sessions with your chosen facilitator, and then free bimonthly preparation and integration groups, and additional free personal growth groups for those signed up for services.
Mindfulness and Breathwork: Engage in mindfulness or breathwork techniques during the psilocybin experience. These practices can help ground your awareness and encourage emotional processing, facilitating a healing journey akin to that experienced with ayahuasca. Many strategies of mindfulness and personal growth, including physical and emotional regulation strategies, are discussed and practiced during our offered groups.
By embracing the similarities between ayahuasca and psilocybin and incorporating supportive rituals and practices, individuals can create their own transformational journeys. Each session can unfold healing opportunities, paving the way for personal growth and profound insights. We look forward to exploring services with you. It’s our joy to be of services. Contact EPIC Healing Eugene for more information.