Over the past 4 1/2 years, my life has been a whirlwind of transformation, taking me from the comfort of my old habits to the depths of self-discovery in some of the most breathtaking places on Earth. It's a journey that has reshaped my perspective, healed my wounds, and opened my eyes to the profound beauty of existence.

Transitioning to a Plant-Based Lifestyle

My journey began with a simple decision to embrace a whole food plant-based lifestyle after being told by my physician that my weight put me in the obese category for my height, and my blood pressure and cholesterol were dangerously high. I decided it was time to make a change. What started as a choice for health soon blossomed into a profound shift in consciousness. I discovered a newfound connection to the earth, a deeper appreciation for the food on my plate, and a sense of vitality that I had never experienced before.

Solo Travel Adventures

Fueled by this newfound energy, I embarked on a series of solo travel adventures across the United States and Canada, immersing myself in the beauty of nature and the richness of different cultures. These journeys taught me the value of independence, resilience, and the importance of living in the present moment to see the beauty surrounding me.

Journey to Ireland

My travels eventually led me to Ireland, home of my ancestors on my paternal side, where I explored the ancient landscapes, connected with the vibrant culture, and discovered a profound sense of peace in the rolling hills and rugged coastline. It was in Ireland that I began to sense a deeper calling, a yearning for spiritual exploration and understanding.

Ayahuasca Retreat in the Yucatan Peninsula

This calling brought me to the jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula, where I participated in an ayahuasca retreat. This ancient plant medicine, revered by indigenous cultures for its healing properties, opened the door to a profound inner journey unlike anything I had experienced before. Ayahuasca, often referred to as "the vine of the soul," is known for its ability to facilitate deep emotional and spiritual healing. For me, it was a journey into the depths of my subconscious, where I confronted long-buried traumas, pain, and emotions. Through the guidance of experienced healers and the support of my fellow participants, I was able to process these experiences and emerge with a newfound sense of clarity and purpose. During my time in the jungle, I also had the opportunity to experience bufo, a traditional indigenous practice that involves inhaling the vapor from the dried secretions of the Sonoran Desert toad. This powerful experience, while intense, further deepened my understanding of myself and the interconnectedness of all things.

Temazcal Journey: Embracing Ancient Healing

I also had the incredible opportunity to experience a temazcal ceremony, and it was truly transformative. For those who may not be familiar, a temazcalli is a traditional sweat lodge used by indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America for healing and purification. Stepping into the temazcalli felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the ancient traditions and wisdom of the land, surrounded by the earthy scent of herbs and the warmth of the stones. I felt a deep sense of connection to nature that reminded me of the importance of honoring and respecting the natural world around us. The intense heat of the temazcalli encouraged me to release tension, worries, and negative energy, allowing me to reflect on what truly matters in life. It was a powerful experience of letting go and embracing the present moment.

Reflecting on My Journey

Looking back on my life journey, I realize now that I had been carrying far more pain and baggage than I was aware of. Ayahuasca and bufo helped me to release these burdens, allowing me to step into a new chapter of my life with a lighter heart and a clearer mind.

Moving Forward with Gratitude and Love

As I continue on my journey, I carry with me a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences that have brought me to this point. I am grateful for the healing power of plant medicine, the beauty of the natural world, and the wisdom of ancient traditions. Most of all, I am grateful for the opportunity to live a life of purpose, connection, and deep profound love.

Embracing Life's Simple Joys

I want to share a gentle reminder from the slow lane of life: It's okay to take a break from the constant buzz of social media and news media outlets. The most beautiful moments are found when we slow down, unplug, and truly savor the present. Take a walk outside, breathe in the fresh air, and listen to the rustle of leaves or the chirping of birds. Nature has a way of slowing our pace and reminding us of life's simple wonders. Consider picking up a paintbrush, even if it’s paint-by-number, play that piano that mostly collects dust, strum a guitar, or write a poem. Engaging in creative pursuits can be a soothing balm for the soul and a welcome escape from our hectic world with a constant temptation to participate in social media.

Quality Time with Loved Ones

Share a meal, have a heartfelt conversation, or simply be present with those you care about. These moments of connection are priceless and can nourish the spirit in ways that scrolling through feeds cannot. Dive into a good book and get lost in the pages of a captivating story or immerse yourself in a topic that piques your curiosity. Play dolls with your children or grandchildren. Ride a bike with the child down the street. Get your hands dirty by playing in the garden and talking to your plants, they too will flourish with a little time and attention.

Finding Balance

Remember, it's all about finding balance. Through insights gained during my ayahuasca, bufo, and temazcalli ceremonies, I've learned to cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for all aspects of my life. I cherish the smallest moments of joy. I have finally learned how to love myself, to connect with myself in the present moment while enjoying each breath for the first time in my life.

Gratitude for Beautiful Souls

As I reflect on my ayahuasca experience, I am filled with deep gratitude for the beautiful souls I had the privilege of sharing space with. Each person brought their own unique energy, wisdom, and presence to our journey, creating a truly transformative and heart-opening experience.

In the maloca, there were people from all walks of life, each with their own stories, struggles, and triumphs. It was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the human experience, and the power of shared vulnerability and connection.

Throughout the ceremony, I felt supported and encouraged by the presence of these beautiful souls. Their words, their energy, and their compassion helped me navigate the depths of my inner world with courage and grace. For the very first time in my life I felt a profound sense of unconditional love and acceptance from those around me.

I am forever grateful for the gift of sharing this sacred space with such beautiful souls. May our paths continue to cross and may we always remember the deep connection we shared during our time together.

Ometeotl