I have worked with Maria & Juan (and the Aya Cona Community) now on two separate occasions, each special in their own way. After sitting with a number of different facilitators over the years, I am grateful to find this group. With the music, the mix of medicines they work with, the Aya Cona community of participants, and the helpers, Maria and Juan create a loving space to go deep in the work. We are encouraged to sink deep, while also held in a space that feels lovingly protected.

Maria and Juan have been working with these medicines for over 20 years, and every helper has traveled and worked in brewing the medicine they serve. They know these plants intimately. Their work is a true act of service. While they create the space for each of us individually to go deep into the process, I felt properly cared for along every step of the journey. After seeing the shadow side of the plant medicine spaces over the years, I was hesitant to open myself up in this way again. Knowing this group and personally knowing helpers who have worked with them for many years, I felt enough trust when the call came once more. The sacred medicines of the Amazon have been colonized for profit as word continues to get out, and power has been abused. I had many conversations about my concerns before sitting again and can feel comfortable in knowing the intention is pure with this group. They work with love and care. The community is inclusive and the medicine is accessible. The container is held with the highest intention, and we are given the space for our own journey without the imprint of another motivation. Care is given before and after, and tools of integration are available. We are not thrown out to fend for ourselves once the “miracle” is attained. They recognize the importance that comes after we go home, and create a container of support for that.

The work is not easy. The location is not glamorous. It is neither cushy nor catered …. which is exactly what is needed to get to the core. I’m writing this review a week after ceremony to ensure my head is clear. And from a distance, I become even more grateful for the gift that was given by this entire community.