Why sexual abstinence while you prepare for your Ayahuasca Ceremony ?

Shamans and ayahuasca practitioners typically recommend sexual abstinence as part of a broader preparation protocol called "dieta" for several interconnected reasons:

Energy conservation and focus:

Traditional belief holds that sexual activity disperses vital energy that should be conserved and concentrated for the intense spiritual work of the ceremony. The idea is that sexual energy and spiritual energy draw from the same source, so abstinence helps build energetic reserves.

Purification process

Sexual abstinence is seen as part of a general purification that also includes dietary restrictions (avoiding salt, sugar, spices, oils, alcohol, and certain foods). This creates a "clean slate" both physically and energetically, making practitioners more sensitive to the plant medicine's effects.

Respect for the plant spirit

Many shamanic traditions view ayahuasca as a feminine plant spirit or "mother" who requires respect and devotion. However, it's worth noting that other Amazonian tribes conceptualize ayahuasca as a male plant spirit or "father," showing the diversity of indigenous perspectives. Regardless of the perceived gender, sexual activity is often seen as potentially creating energetic "interference" or showing lack of commitment to the ceremonial process.

Heightened sensitivity

Abstinence is believed to increase physical and psychic sensitivity, making the participant more receptive to the plant's teachings and visions. The theory is that sexual release can dull this heightened awareness.

Traditional protocol

These practices stem from indigenous Amazonian traditions where shamans themselves often maintain strict dietas, sometimes for months or years. The temporary abstinence for ceremony participants mirrors this larger framework of discipline and preparation.

Cross-cultural parallels

Similar practices exist in other spiritual traditions worldwide. In African spirituality, abstaining from sex and avoiding arguments during initiation periods is also common practice, reflecting a broader understanding across cultures that spiritual preparation requires physical and emotional discipline to create optimal conditions for transformation and spiritual receptivity.

The recommended abstinence period varies but typically ranges from 3 days to 2 weeks before ceremony, depending on the tradition and shaman's guidance.

I think week of abstinencefine and if this feels really difficult its worth looking at what is coming up for you or your partner.

Is it fear, lust, jealousy, power dynamics, discomfort, joy ?

Whatever the answer this is good information for you as you prepare to take medicine and could even inform one of your intentions.

We look forward to seeing you in ceremony.