A novel docuseries, Plant Medicine: A Journey of Healing, Awakening, and the Miracle Within, offers an unprecedented look into the world of ayahuasca retreats and personal transformation. The series, now streaming on Gaia, centers on Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, described as the world’s first medically licensed facility of its kind.
A Diverse Group Seeking Change
The series follows seven individuals at pivotal moments in their lives. Participants include a Gulf War veteran with a disability, a formerly incarcerated bank robber, a social media influencer known as the Eyebrow King, an actor experiencing a personal crisis, a model struggling with body image, an actress and writer coping with grief, and a mother searching for meaning. Each carries personal wounds they hope to address.
Plant Medicine distinguishes itself by capturing the raw and unguarded experiences of participants undergoing ayahuasca ceremonies within a medically supervised framework. The series similarly revisits participants months later to assess the lasting impact of their experiences, referred to as “miracles” by Rythmia.
Rythmia’s Approach to Healing
Founded in 2016 by Gerard Armond Powell, Rythmia has served over 22,000 guests, with 98% self-reporting a “miracle” experience. The center’s approach, known as “The Rythmia Way,” combines ayahuasca ceremonies with practices like breathwork, yoga, metaphysical classes, and farm-to-table nutrition. The series highlights this convergence of ancient wisdom and modern science.
The series is directed by Stash Slionski and executive produced by Earl Koskie and Johnny Messner. The production team features a Board of Directors that includes Kelly Slater, Cesar Millan, and Ron White.
What’s Next?
If the series gains traction, it could lead to increased interest in ayahuasca retreats and plant-based medicine. Demand for spots at Rythmia is already high, and the center may see a surge in bookings. Further exploration of the long-term effects of these experiences, as documented in the series, could also influence the broader conversation around mental health and alternative therapies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Plant Medicine about?
Plant Medicine: A Journey of Healing, Awakening, and the Miracle Within is a six-episode docuseries that follows seven strangers as they undergo ayahuasca ceremonies at Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Costa Rica.
Where is Rythmia located?
Rythmia Life Advancement Center is located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
What percentage of Rythmia guests report a “miracle” experience?
98% of guests at Rythmia Life Advancement Center self-report a “miracle” experience.
Does witnessing others confront their deepest vulnerabilities inspire you to consider your own path toward healing and self-discovery?
