Prepare yourself—body, mind, & spirit
How To prepare for your life-changing medicine journey, & what to bring with you.
Your journey is not just about the ceremony; preparation is vital.
Before you arrive you may feel the resurfacing of emotions, fears, and unresolved traumas and/or some heightened self-awareness and introspection. This is the first step in your energetic clearing. Your discomfort is highlighting that which needs healing.
Diet & Body Preparation at Gaya Kali Center
The diet, or dieta, is an important part of preparing your body and mind for the deep healing work at Gaya Kali Center. A well-supported diet allows the medicines to work more clearly and safely, helping you arrive in ceremony with an open heart, a calm mind, and a grounded physical foundation.
Our dietary guidance is simple, natural, and designed to honor both your health and the wisdom of the medicines.
Why the Diet Matters
A clean and intentional diet helps to:
• Reduce physical and emotional toxins
• Calm the nervous system
• Increase sensitivity and clarity during ceremonies
• Create a stable internal environment for deep healing
• Strengthen your connection to body, mind, and spirit
By simplifying what enters your body, you create space for the medicine to work at its fullest potential.
Foods to Embrace
We encourage a light, nourishing, and natural diet leading up to your retreat. This typically includes:
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Light plant-based meals
• Clean water and herbal teas
• Simple, minimally processed foods
Eating gently supports your emotional balance and physical readiness.
Foods & Substances to Avoid
To ensure safety and the best possible experience, we ask participants to avoid:
• Alcohol and recreational substances
• Heavy, greasy, or fried foods
• Excess sugar and processed foods
• Red meat and pork (for some medicines)
• Very spicy foods
• Overuse of caffeine
These items can interfere with the medicines and make the body more reactive.
Medication Considerations
Certain medications may need to be paused or adjusted before your retreat to ensure absolute safety. This is always done under professional guidance. You will receive a personal screening with our medical team, who will carefully review:
• Any medications you currently take
• Any supplements or herbs
• Any potential interactions
• Whether adjustments are needed for your retreat
Your health and safety are always our highest priority.
Personalized Dietary Guidance
Every participant receives their own preparation plan, designed according to their:
• Body type
• Medical background
• Emotional state
• Specific retreat or medicine they will participate in
Our team is here to answer all questions and support you in creating the ideal inner environment for your journey.
At Gaya Kali Center, the diet is not a restriction — it is an act of respect for your healing process. By preparing your body with intention and care, you open the doorway for deeper clarity, smoother ceremonies, and a more profound transformation.
What to Bring to gaya kali
Bring only what supports you — simplicity is part of the journey.
To help you feel comfortable, prepared, and supported throughout your retreat, we recommend bringing the following personal items:
Essentials
• Comfortable clothing for both warm days and cool nights
• Light layers for ceremonies
• Personal hygiene items
• Any prescribed medications (approved during your screening)
• Refillable water bottle
• A journal and pen for reflections
• A small personal object or item of meaning (optional)
• Swimwear for river, lake, or bathhouse moments
• Comfortable shoes for walking in nature
Recommended extras:
• Sunscreen and natural insect repellent
• A flashlight or headlamp
• A small towel or sarong
• Reusable bag for keeping your items organized
We provide everything else you need for a safe and nurturing retreat, including bedding, blankets, ceremony materials, and all meals.
Things you can do to Prepare Emotionally & mentally
Write your fears and intentions in a journal. Reflect on patterns you wish to release.
Practice yoga or get out in nature to quieten your mind and nervous system.
Be compassionate and kind with yourself.
Meditate and breathe: calm your nervous system, and align your energy.
Avoid Negative Energy: Stay away from violent media, toxic conversations, or draining environments.
