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An Exploration of Psychotherapeutic Aspects of Santo Daime Ceremonies in the UK.


Web link: www.neip.i...

Abstract

This research explores the experience of participants in rituals organized by the Santo Daime, a Brazilian religious organization. These rituals involve the use of Ayahuasca, an Amazonian psychoactive brew traditionally used as a healing medicine in South America. The study used semi-structured interviews to explore the thoughts and attitudes of six participants of Santo Daime rituals in the UK. The findings highlight a number of themes addressed in the discussion as follows: • increased awareness • beneficial and negative effects • modification of values and behaviour • Ayahuasca as a teacher and as a discipline. Recommendations and considerations about the psychotherapeutic potential of Ayahuasca rituals will be offered to support the integration of this traditional healing medicine in Western psychotherapy practice.