What Happens in an Ayahuasca Ceremony? A gentle guide to this sacred plant medicine journey

An ayahuasca ceremony is a sacred healing experience rooted in Indigenous traditions from the Amazon rainforest. For thousands of years, people have worked with this plant medicine to heal trauma, connect with spirit, and awaken deeper truths within themselves. Today, more and more people from around the world are drawn to these ceremonies—not to escape, but to heal, reconnect, and remember who they really are.

If you’re curious or feeling called, it’s helpful to understand what actually happens in an ayahuasca ceremony. While every ceremony is different depending on the guide, tradition, and setting, most follow a general flow rooted in intention, respect, and connection.

1. The Space Is Prepared with Care

The ceremony usually takes place in a safe, quiet space—often called a maloka or ceremonial circle. This could be a temple, a yurt, or a dedicated healing space. It’s set up with care and intention: mats or cushions are arranged in a circle, there may be an altar with sacred objects, and soft lighting or candles create a peaceful atmosphere.

Many ceremonies are held at night or begin in the late evening and continue through the early hours. Darkness helps you go inward.

2. The Group Gathers with Intention

Before the ceremony starts, the facilitator or shaman will usually gather the group for a talk. This is when they’ll explain the flow of the night, offer guidance, and help everyone ground into the space. You’ll likely be invited to share your intention—a word, question, or feeling that you want to explore or heal.

This part of the evening is gentle and grounding. It helps everyone feel supported and seen.

3. The Medicine Is Offered

Ayahuasca is a tea made from two plants: the ayahuasca vine (Banisteriopsis caapi) and the chacruna leaf (Psychotria viridis). Together, these plants create a powerful, visionary medicine.

Each person drinks a small cup when they’re ready. The taste is bitter and earthy. After drinking, you return to your mat and settle in. The effects usually begin within 30–60 minutes.

4. The Journey Begins

Ayahuasca brings what you need—not always what you expect. Some people have visions, memories, or emotional releases. Others feel physical sensations, like shaking, sweating, or nausea. It’s very common to vomit, which is considered part of the cleansing process. This is often called “purging,” and it can include crying, yawning, or even laughing.

The medicine works on your body, mind, and spirit. It often brings up buried emotions or deep truths. It can be challenging—but also incredibly loving.

5. The Space Is Held with Love

Throughout the journey, the ceremony is held by one or more trained facilitators or shamans. They may sing icaros (medicine songs), play music, or use instruments like rattles and drums to help guide the energy.

You’re not alone. The space is carefully held so you can feel safe to surrender. Helpers may gently support you if you need anything—whether that’s more water, a blanket, or a calm presence nearby.

6. The Ceremony Closes with Gratitude

After several hours, the effects begin to fade. You may feel tired, tender, or wide open. The group will usually gather to close the ceremony with a prayer, song, or moment of silence.

There’s often tea or fruit available, and everyone is encouraged to rest. Some ceremonies include sharing circles the next day, where people talk about what came up for them and begin to integrate the experience.

7. Integration Is Where the Healing Deepens

Ayahuasca is powerful—but the real healing happens afterward. This is called integration, and it’s the process of taking what you saw or felt and applying it to your life. That might mean journaling, therapy, rest, or making gentle changes in how you live, love, or relate to yourself.

Ayahuasca doesn’t “fix” you. It helps you see yourself more clearly, and offers the chance to release what no longer serves you. You still have to walk the path—but you’re not walking it alone anymore.

A Final Word

Ayahuasca is not for everyone, and it’s not a magic cure. But for those who feel called—and who approach it with respect, readiness, and the right support—it can be a life-changing doorway to healing, compassion, and connection.

As always, choose guides and spaces that honor consent, safety, and cultural respect. You deserve to be held in your healing.