Today, let’s dive into one of my favorite topics: plant medicine. More specifically, we’ll discuss the crucial question: how to integrate after a plant medicine or psychedelic ceremony?
Integration is often overlooked or misunderstood. Many think the ceremony itself is the ultimate goal, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. With more than 30 Ayahuasca ceremonies and countless other psychedelic experiences behind me—both as a participant and facilitator—I’ve seen this topic from many angles.
Let’s explore why integration is key, how to approach it effectively, and why it can sometimes feel even more significant than the ceremony itself.
My Journey into Plant Medicine
Plant medicine changed my life. My first Ayahuasca experience in 2019 was transformative. Even before that, in 2016, I had my first LSD experience in Costa Rica, which subtly began reshaping my perception of reality.
But what really struck me over the years is that the real work begins after the ceremony. The ceremonies themselves, whether blissful or deeply challenging, set the stage for profound personal transformation.
For example, Ayahuasca ceremonies often bring up suppressed emotions—anger, sadness, hopelessness, numbness—or unresolved traumas. These experiences are not just about the visions or the connection with higher beings but about facing your shadows.
The Importance of Integration
Integration is where the magic truly happens. It’s about taking the revelations from your journey and weaving them into your life. Without this step, even the most profound ceremony can feel like a fleeting dream.
Here’s the truth: I’ve seen people attend multiple ceremonies, yet nothing in their lives really changed. Why? Because the pull of old patterns, toxic relationships, and familiar environments is incredibly strong.
So, what does integration mean? It’s the process of making your experience a part of you. For example:
Journaling about revelations or emotional breakthroughs.
Reflecting on family dynamics or generational trauma.
Taking time off to process and adjust before jumping back into daily life.
In my experience, at least one or two days of quiet reflection after a ceremony is essential.
My Lessons from Integration
Some of my most profound integrations came after incredibly intense ceremonies. In 2021, I attended ceremonies in the Amazon, which left me with two years of integration work. Those ceremonies brought to light deep truths about my upbringing, family trauma, and personal struggles.
Afterward, I dove into topics like narcissism and trauma, breaking free from toxic dynamics and rebuilding my understanding of myself. This wasn’t a linear process—it required therapy, learning about the nervous system, and ongoing self-reflection.
Contrast this with 2023, when I participated in three retreats within six months. Each retreat built upon the other, creating a cohesive process. Sometimes integration spans years, and other times it flows naturally in shorter bursts.
Connection During Integration
While integration is often a solitary process, connection can be invaluable. After some ceremonies, I felt isolated, wishing I had someone to talk to.
Whether during my work as a trip sitter or as a participant, I’ve seen how talking—or simply sitting in silence with someone who understands—can be transformative. For many, psychedelic experiences amplify the need for human connection.
For instance, during a trip-sitting experience at a festival, people would often seek out advice, reassurance, or simply someone to listen. The act of being present for someone, without judgment, can be as healing as the ceremony itself.
Embracing the Unfolding
Integration doesn’t have to be perfect or linear. It’s messy, personal, and deeply human. As I reflect on my own journey, I realize how much patience and persistence it takes.
So, whether you’re journaling, talking with someone who understands, or simply sitting in nature to reflect, remember: integration is the bridge between your old self and the person you’re becoming.
Plant medicine will show you the way, but it’s up to you to walk the path.
Meditation as an Anchor
Meditation is a powerful tool for navigating the emotional waves that arise during and after spiritual or psychedelic experiences. Guided meditations, especially those focusing on connecting with the universe or addressing your emotions, can act as a grounding anchor. They remind you, even in the most turbulent times, that everything will eventually be okay.
Sometimes, having someone reassure you of this truth is invaluable. There may be moments when it feels like you’ve made a mess of everything, but trust grows with time and experience.
Building Trust with Plant Medicine
Through over 30 Ayahuasca ceremonies, I’ve developed profound trust in this medicine. But this trust wasn’t instantaneous—it grew gradually. Early on, fear and hesitation shielded me from diving too deeply into certain memories or pains. With time, as trust developed, I could go deeper, even when the ceremonies became more challenging.
Every experience happens for a reason. Even if nothing “spectacular” occurs during a ceremony, it may be precisely what you need—a chance to work through expectations, frustrations, and the quiet lessons of being present.
Post-Ceremony Integration
Returning to daily life after a retreat can feel disorienting. The transition from a deeply spiritual experience to the "normal" world is jarring—you may feel like an alien trying to function in a world that no longer resonates.
Integration is crucial. This means listening to the guidance you’ve received, whether it’s letting go of toxic habits or creating space for new ones. For instance, my decision to stop drinking alcohol wasn’t a direct instruction but a natural outcome of my journey. Letting go of old patterns, friends, and habits can be challenging, but it’s part of creating a life aligned with your higher self.
Embracing Change and Uncertainty
Spiritual awakening reshapes your worldview, relationships, and connection to the universe. It’s not just the ceremonies—it’s the revelations, the emotions, and the life changes that follow. You can’t go back to who you were, and trying to fit into old molds often feels like being a puzzle piece in the wrong puzzle.
During this transition, finding like-minded individuals can be a lifeline. Hearing others’ stories reminds you that you’re not alone in this process, even if it feels isolating.
Navigating the Dark Night of the Soul
The journey isn’t without its dark moments. Times of confusion, frustration, and even despair—what some call the Dark Night of the Soul—are common. These periods, though painful, are opportunities for the ego to dissolve, making space for light and transformation.
Trust that this confusion is part of the process. It’s through being broken open that true change happens.
Practical Tips for Integration
Take time off: After a retreat, give yourself time to process before returning to work or social obligations.
Create space: Let go of habits, environments, and relationships that no longer serve you.
Seek community: Connect with others who understand your journey.
Honor your intuition: Only pursue plant medicine or psychedelics when you feel genuinely called to do so.
Closing Thoughts
Integration is the real work. It’s about bringing the lessons and energies of higher realms into your daily life here on Earth. Don’t rush into the next experience—trust your intuition to tell you when you’re ready.
If you’re feeling called to share your experiences or seek guidance, I’m here to support you. Together, we can navigate this journey of awakening and integration.
Namaste, and see you in the next chapter of this beautiful journey.
Thank you for reading and I wish you a wonderful day.
Franziska
If you would like to watch the whole Episode on YouTube
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