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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What commitments am I making by signing the "release of liability" document?
    By signing the document, you agree to have read and understood all the information in the document, comply with dietary and drug restrictions, remain within the ceremony room during sessions, and refrain from self-harm or harm to others, communicating any violent urges or suicidal ideations.
  • What activities take place during the retreat, and are there any associated risks?
    The retreat activities include movement, meditation, breath work and a group psychedelic experience with psilocybin truffles. While risks are minimal, participants are advised to be mindful of their physical limits during activities.
  • Is there a list of medications that should be avoided before the retreat?
    Yes. These matters are discussed during the intake interview. As with other drugs & medications, it’s important to note that the effects of psychedelics may be increased or reduced by combining them with other drugs or medications . We advise you to consult a doctor or your psychiatrist before the retreat if you are taking medications such as Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants or lithium. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. A non-exhaustive medication list can be provided on demand. The ability to participate while taking mood stabilizers or antidepressants depends on the specific medication. Some individuals may be allowed to continue their medication, while others may need to taper off under the guidance of their psychiatrist or physician. Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can be continued. For all other painkillers and medication, please talk to the Eremia team.
  • What are some potential adverse events of a psilocybin experience?
    Although psilocybin is considered to be very safe from a physical point of view, its consumption is not free from potential risks or adverse events. For instance; - During the session, participants may experience anxiety, restlessness or panic. These reactions are transient. - Psilocybin can moderately elevate heart rate and blood pressure. These physiological changes may cause discomfort, but are usually short-lived. - A session may bring forth unconscious psychological material, including unresolved traumas or emotions. Emotional release is a common aspect of the therapeutic process, allowing participants to explore and process deep-seated emotions. It's important to note that experiences are individual, and adverse events are influenced by factors such as dosage, set and setting, individual susceptibility, and mental health conditions. For this reason, Eremia always has psychological and medical assistance on site, and will always have at least one preparatory talk with you to prepare you to face these difficult situations in case they should arise.
  • What are the criteria for participating in an Erēmia UNLOCK retreat?
    To participate in an Erēmia retreat, you must be over 21 years old, sign the provided liability release, comply with safety procedures, have normal blood pressure (with or without medication) and adhere to specific dietary and substance/medication restrictions.
  • What are the potential risks and side effects of psilocybin truffles?
    While psilocybin has low physiological toxicity, participants may experience somatic effects like dizziness and nausea. Psychological risks include the possibility of a "Challenging Experience" usually characterized by intense anxiety, fear, dysphoria, or paranoia. We prefer to name this kind of experience as challenging, not as bad. Our team offers proper support and a safe environment that is crucial in managing "Challenging Experiences". It's crucial to emphasize that these challenging states are transient and that we consider them to be integral to the individual's therapeutic process.
  • Are there any restrictions on medications, alcohol or other drugs before and after the retreat?
    You should not consume alcohol 24 hours before the retreat for safety reasons. The use of any other prescribed medications or drugs should be discussed during your intake and with your doctor/psychiatrist. Depending on the medications themselves, you can either continue to take them, or they need to be tapered off in a safe way. For some drugs or prescribed medications this can be done in a matter of days, for others it might take weeks. For your personal process, we advise you to abstain from alcohol a few days after the retreat, so you can benefit more fully from the "afterglow" effects.
  • Can I participate in multiple retreats?
    Yes. Currently, we are developing a long-term program where individuals can participate in multiple consecutive retreats. Keep an eye on our website or contact us for more information.
  • Can I participate in an individual session instead of a group setting retreat?
    Currently, Erēmia does not offer individual sessions unless for individuals who have already participated in a group retreat. We highly value the group process and dynamics, as emphasized on our website.
  • What precautions should be taken during breathwork?
    Participants may experience symptoms like dizziness, tingling and muscle cramps. If you are pregnant or suffer from a serious cardiovascular disease, you should avoid breathwork.
  • What can I expect during the psychedelic experience with psilocybin truffles?
    Psilocybin can induce changes in (sensory) perception, emotion, awareness and thought. In general, we accord a lot of importance to set and setting. The experience takes place in a safe group setting, and lasts up to six hours. The dosage is decided on by our therapeutic lead. Our facilitators are experienced psychologists and medical healthcare workers that create and hold a container for your experience.
  • What dietary restrictions should I be aware of before the psychedelic truffle consumption?
    During the retreat we ask you to refrain from eating any food within four hours prior to the psychedelic truffle consumption and avoid all caffeine-containing products. However, if you are used to having coffee in the morning, it is ok to drink one or two cups.
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