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Michael Housman's avatar

Set and setting matters a TON. My two ayahuasca experiences couldn't have been more different.

The first was in Peru, where I thought I'd get the authentic experience but the space where we did it was cold, dark, and uninviting. No one really checked in on me and they wouldn't work with me to ensure that I got the dose I needed.

The second was in Austin, where it was run by someone who's done this for decades. There was beautiful chanting, guitar playing, a "comfort pad" where folks could get massages, and folks checked in on me regularly. I can't speak highly enough about the experience and I had the most profound insights!

Please feel free to connect me with the subscriber who had a bad experience. I would swear by my Austin experience and guarantee it'll be amazing for anyone!

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Andrew M. Weisse's avatar

Couldn’t agree more, brother. Set & setting make or break the journey. Your contrast between Peru & Austin nails it: the container matters as much as the compound.

I’ll definitely connect you with the subscriber who had a rough experience. Thanks for that!

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Taft's avatar

Yup, totally concur with this :)

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Andrew M. Weisse's avatar

Yes, sir. Those who have been there understand the gravity of the experience (both the good & the bad).

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Darby Jones's avatar

Only disagreeing a smidge 'cuz I love you and your work. What you described: "promotion, partner, kid" are all things that require a LOT of responsibility. And you should enjoy them. It's not time for games that divide your attn from important milestones. I agree. But I'm coasting. My job isn't demanding, pays well, kids are pretty autonomous (16 yrs). Life's amazing, but I'm looking for a little direction, a nudge from the elders perhaps. I've never been better, but I want some guidance on how to approach several new opportunities and all the energy and joy that accompanies them. Great post!

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Andrew M. Weisse's avatar

Thanks for the kind words, Darby. Really appreciate that.

Yeah, man, these are general rules...obviously there are individual exceptions. Sounds like this phase of life could be captured by 'searching' in which a journey makes a ton of sense. When I wrote about children, I meant just having kids, having a 2 year old home might not be the best time to fly down to the Amazon and commune with Aya.

Appreciate this share! It adds nuance to the conversation.

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Zahara Saldaña's avatar

I'll keep #9

So accurate

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Andrew M. Weisse's avatar

That's a rule I wish I had known about sooner!

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Zahara Saldaña's avatar

When or how did you realize the importance of it?

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Andrew M. Weisse's avatar

Trial & error! And speaking to wise people in the space.

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