I recently participated in a ceremony and found the experience to be very healing. I was actually surprised to see so many other men in the group and they were very welcoming. The ceremony itself had the men work in their own group while the women worked in theirs. This was a nice way for me to reflect on not only myself as a person, but to be expressive of myself as a man. When you’re going through the work, it is comforting to have a brotherhood who is supporting you and helping to make sure you’re okay. I should also note this was my first experience dealing with these medicines. Juan and Maria were the absolute best. They were so thoughtful and open to my questions and you felt a genuine warmth about them.

Post ceremony was a lot to process. In fact a week later I was still going through the work. I discovered some very positive and unexpected things working its way through me. I think the important thing to keep in mind is that it is okay to be skeptical and to look for the right fit for yourself, but I would give my honest advice that if you are called to work with Juan, Maria and the wonderful people who volunteer with them, please do so. I don’t regret a single moment of the experience.