The Spirit Vine Journal

Educational articles on ayahuasca ceremonies, retreat preparation, integration, and long-term healing.

RED FLAGS: Infiltration and Escalation in Spiritual Communities: Recognizing Narcissistic and Sociopathic Manipulation – Quintet

by Silvia Polivoy, Psychologist. Narcissistic and sociopathic manipulation is a sophisticated and insidious sickness, infiltrating every level of society. Families, friends and it thrives especially

Origins of AI : Through Ancient Indian Texts

For the modern world and our present civilization the invention of the first programmable digital computer taken place in the 1940s, a machine based on

Sustainability at Spirit Vine

The Spirit Vine Center was founded by Silvia Polivoy with the intention to help people, nature, and animals. This intention was ignited in her first

How to Choose an Ayahuasca Spiritual Retreat: A Practical Guide

Taking part in a spiritual retreat is a meaningful way to reconnect with yourself and find peace. The most important is to find a retreat

Benefits of a Small Group Retreat vs. a Large Group

When planning where to attend an ayahuasca retreat, one of the most important decisions is whether to join a small group or a large group.

Recommended Books | Ayahuasca Newsletter 84

Death by Astonishment: Confronting the Mystery of the World’s Strangest Drug ~ Andrew R. Gallimore ~ For fans of the compelling critical and investigative style

Fragments of a broken soul by Silvia Polivoy

Soul fragmentation is what happens when trauma or big changes in our lives cause important parts of our inner selves to break apart or disappear.

Childhood Trauma: Lifting the Burden by Silvia Polivoy

Everyone has some kind of trauma from childhood, but no two stories are the same. The depth and effect of these early experiences are very

The Victims of Narcissists and The red flags they cannot see. By Silvia Polivoy

If one or both of your parents are narcissists, you are a good candidate to become a narcissist yourself or to develop addictions, especially an

Are we Hallucinating Karma? by Silvia Polivoy

What we perceive as “the world” is not objective in the classical sense. It is not independent of observation, and more crucially, it is not

Recommended Books | Ayahuasca Newsletter 83

The Guru Principle: A Guide to the Teacher-Student Relationship in Buddhism by Shenpen Hookham ~ Shenpen Hookham ~ All major traditions of Buddhism seem to

Unveiling the Shadow Side: How Confronting Inner Darkness Leads to Personal Growth

What Is the Shadow Side? The shadow side is the unconscious, less-than-desired aspect of ourselves. Aspects like these could include habits, fears, or desires that

Reciprocity Psychology as a Healing Method: Building Resilience Through Mutual Support

Imagine experiencing a tough day—nothing seems to go right, and you feel overwhelmed. Then, out of nowhere, a friend asks you, “Hey, how are you

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How is the tea made?

At Spirit Vine, we prepare the ayahuasca tea using only organic Banisteriopsis caapi (the vine) and Psychotria viridis (chacruna), both grown with care and intention. Our brew contains no additives and is made following traditional preparation methods that honor the plants and the lineage they come from. The process is approached with respect, prayer, and mindfulness, recognizing the tea as a sacred medicine rather than a substance.

Is there music during the ceremony?

Yes. Music is an essential part of our ceremonies. We carefully curate soundscapes that are designed to support, guide, and hold participants throughout their journey. The music helps bring awareness to what needs to be felt, released, or integrated, and it plays a meaningful role in creating a safe, intentional ceremonial container.

Will I be alone during the ceremony?

No. Our ceremonies are held in a group setting, and you will not be alone. We are present throughout the ceremony, typically with more than one facilitator, to ensure safety and support. While each participant has their own deeply personal experience, the shared ceremonial space allows for collective holding, care, and connection.

What happens on non-ceremony days?

On non-ceremony days, we offer a balance of integration workshops, guided practices, and rest. These may include inner child work, art-based exploration, meditation, yoga, and group sharing. There is also spacious time for reflection, relaxation, and connecting with nature — whether that means resting, journaling, or enjoying the surrounding land and nearby beaches.