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Psilocybin

Psilocybin, the Connector. Origins, ceremony, and what the medicine teaches.

Begin with a conversation

Begin with a 30-minute conversation with our team.

What is Psilocybin?

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring compound found in certain species of mushrooms that grow throughout forests and grasslands around the world. These fungi have been used ceremonially for generations by indigenous cultures, particularly in regions of Mexico and Central America, where they were traditionally referred to as "the flesh of the gods." We honor the Indigenous stewards of this medicine, and teachers such as María Sabina of the Mazatec, who carried it long before the world came looking.

The medicine opens a state of expanded awareness and perception. Effects usually begin within 20 to 60 minutes and can last four to six hours.

At Ananda Lodge, we hold psilocybin within the Empowered Path, twelve weeks of preparation, ceremony, and integration around an eight-day retreat in Costa Rica, where guided ceremonies take place in a carefully supported environment. Our approach emphasizes trauma-informed care, preparation before ceremony, and integration afterward, so guests can explore the medicine with clarity and support.

Dried mushrooms resting on a bright embroidered flower cloth
Two women sitting knee to knee, holding hands and smiling
Held gently, in a safe and intentional setting, so insight can surface at its own pace.

The Connector.

Psilocybin lights up mental and emotional pathways and composts what no longer serves.

As mushrooms turn what has fallen into rich soil, the medicine works with old imprints and patterns to make room for new connections, closer to who you are. Many people see their lives, relationships, and personal stories with greater compassion and clarity. It meets you where you are: it can be tender, and it can reach layers that feel hard.

Research institutions such as Johns Hopkins and NYU are studying psilocybin. Our work is ceremonial and educational, not clinical.

A guided ceremony

Psilocybin on the Empowered Path.

Our psilocybin immersion in Costa Rica is designed to support reflection and emotional clarity, with care before, during, and after every ceremony.

  • Guided psilocybin ceremonies in a safe and intentional setting
  • Ten guests maximum, each in a single-occupancy ocean-view suite
  • Four weeks of preparation in Attune, with a psilocybin microdose ally
  • Trauma-informed care during ceremonies
  • Eight weeks of Anchor: commitments you name, keep, and track
  • A peaceful jungle setting with private rooms, nourishing meals, and ocean views

Three ceremonies, each distinct: an opening evening ceremony, a dawn ceremony with sound, and a community ceremony with live music. Each is followed by a day to rest and integrate.

Download our preparation guide
A woman with eyes closed and a hand on her chest, sitting in circle
"The experience was so positive and life-changing. I will carry it, and many lessons with me, for the rest of my life. On top of that, the rooms, the view, and the pool were great. Trust your inner voice, be open to what is possible, and just let go! You will be amazed."
Warren · Psilocybin
"The psilocybin retreat at Costa Rica's Ananda was an excellent experience. The schedule was thoughtfully organized, gradually introducing the process in a way that felt safe and reassuring. It was evident that the staff and leadership put significant effort into doing everything the right way."
Johnathan · Psilocybin
Guests seated on mats facing a medicine carrier in the maloca

Let's talk about it.

Begin with a 30-minute conversation with our team.

Begin with a conversation
Common questions

Psilocybin, answered.

Is psilocybin safe?
Ceremonies are held in a carefully guided setting by experienced medicine carriers and guardians. Psilocybin is a psychoactive medicine and is not appropriate for everyone. Every guest completes a health and safety screening at intake before attending an immersion, so our team can determine whether this work is right for you. Ananda's team does not provide medical care; we work alongside your own healthcare providers.
Who should not take psilocybin?
Psilocybin is not right for everyone. Some medications and some personal health histories make it unsafe. Every medication is reviewed during your health and safety screening at intake, and we offer honest guidance before you commit.
What happens during a psilocybin ceremony?
Ceremonies are held in a calm, intentional setting and usually last four to six hours. You'll rest comfortably, often with eyeshades and music, as the medicine works through introspection and insight. Your guardians are with you the entire time. On the Empowered Path, the three ceremonies fall on days 2, 4 and 6 of the retreat.
How should I prepare for a psilocybin immersion?
Preparation begins well before you arrive. We provide dietary and lifestyle guidance, suggestions for slowing down and setting intentions, and preparation calls with our team. Our downloadable preparation guide walks you through each step, so you arrive ready, grounded, and supported.
What happens after the immersion?
After the retreat is where the change becomes how you live. On the Empowered Path, eight weeks of Anchor hold you to the commitments you make: group sessions, individual tracking calls, and your microdose ally.

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Somatics and plant medicine, explained plainly: practices to keep, what the research is exploring, and new immersion dates before anyone else.

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Curious about Psilocybin? Begin with a conversation