How to Prepare to Go Toward the Within

Before

On the day of the event, fast or have a light breakfast. Avoid caffeine, sugar, processed foods, fatty foods and heavy foods such as meats, cheeses and dairy. Better yet, fast. 

Wear comfortable clothes. Please no makeup or perfume. Be prepared to move. 

Bring an open mind. 

If you choose to accept the sacrament, it may take 10-15 minutes to activate. It’s also a very small dose and will likely exist just under perceptivity. 

This experience is for you. There is no right or wrong way to do it. 

Approach the experience with kindness, curiosity and compassion: what is coming up for you? Where in your body? We invite you to pay more attention to feelings than thoughts. To that end, this is a good time to 

    • Practice awareness, presence & gratitude 

    • Trust the process 

    • Welcome emotional expression 

    • Practice relaxation, releasing, letting go

    • Practice going inward 

    • These are only suggestions, not requirements.

Keep In Mind

Each experience is unique and unpredictable.

This is not magic. This is not a cure-all. This may not work for you. 

This event is but one part of the process; engagement & integration is required (for best results).

Accoutrements that may be useful

1. A Journal & pen
2. Water
3. Snacks (nuts, fruits, veggies; avoid processed, sugary and fatty foods)
4. Personal items: pictures, hugging devices such as a stuffed animal, pillows, blankets; meaningful personal objects; a change of clothes.

Please silence or turn off your phone and stow it away throughout the process.

It’s also a good idea to remove and stow your watch and/or any other electronic device that may be distracting. 

Safety Agreement: Do No Harm

Do no harm to yourself, facilitators, staff or property. 
Remain in the space until the event is over.

After

Following the event is a period known as integration. During this time, we reflect on our experience, listen to the messages of the journey and try to work any lessons garnered from the experience into our lives.  

It is advisable to not make any big changes to your life immediately following the event.

Have a plan to support an easy post-journey experience. Perhaps, take a shower/bath once home. Have a nice meal planned. Consider how you might want to engage with your support network (friends, family, loved ones). Talking about the experience can be a good way to gain a deeper understanding. By telling the story we begin to understand the story. What were the important points, themes and key takeaways?  

During the days and weeks that follow, please try: 

  • Practicing meditation

  • Sitting with or in silence 

  • Making space for marination/contemplation/percolation 

  • Spending time in nature 

  • Spending less time on your phone and/or using electronics

  • Journaling 

  • Making art 

  • Singing 

  • Resting & reflecting  

  • And of course, doing more yoga! 

If you have questions about preparing or the process, get in touch. We’d be happy to help.