Question 1

Why do people generally attend?

Accepted Answer

To liberate themselves from past issues, anxiety, gilt or sorrow. To live their full potential, attract guidance, clarity and vision. To reconnect with their inner spirit from where creativity is born. To improve self-care and gain understanding about their relationships and the interconnectedness of all things. To reconnect with other people, to lay down the masks, to be open and honest, to feel save and supported. To release and reload or to mark an important personal moment.

Question 2

What can I expect from the effects?

Accepted Answer

On an empty stomach the truffles will usually start to work within half an hour. Initially your body can feel a bit restless, this is when the medicine, which is what we call the little mushrooms, are scanning your body. This feeling generally fades as soon as you have surrendered to the experience. The intensity of the experience comes and goes in waves and continues to do so for about 4 to 6 hours.

Some people can experience some nausea in which case deep belly breathing, movement or relaxing tend to ease the feeling of nausea. Further you can experience visions, emotions and insights. Don’t be surprised if radical shifts start occurring in your life.

The psychedelic experience can make you feel all ‘four seasons in one day’, with moments of pure consciousness, intense sadness or fear, gratefulness and absolute bliss. From personal experience we know that it can become quite challenging for a person as fears may arise, but often this is where the self-healing takes off. Our team encourages people to surrender to, or work with the energy that moves through you. We will be there for meeting your needs, before, after and during the ceremony.

Question 3

Are you using truffles or mushrooms in the retreat?

Accepted Answer

We use truffles. Truffles are sclerotica (mycelium thickenings) which grow underground and are a part of the fungi, just like the fruit bodies (called mushrooms) that grow above the ground. The part that grows underground consists of the same active compounds as the ones that grow above the ground.  We use truffles instead of mushrooms because truffles are legal in the Netherlands and mushrooms are not. In our texts we mainly speak about mushrooms and less about truffles, because people outside of the Netherlands are not so familiar with the name truffles.

Question 4

Can you say eighther mushrooms or truffles are better?

Accepted Answer

No, it is not appropriate to conclude that one is "better" than the other when comparing psilocybin mushrooms and psilocybin truffles. The perception of whether one is "better" depends on individual preferences, intentions, and experiences of the user. Both psilocybin mushrooms and psilocybin truffles have their unique characteristics and can offer distinct experiences to individuals.

The choice between psilocybin mushrooms and psilocybin truffles can be influenced by various factors, including:

Legal Status: The legal status of psilocybin-containing substances varies from country to country. In some places, psilocybin mushrooms might be illegal, while psilocybin truffles might be considered legal due to different regulations.
Potency: As mentioned earlier, psilocybin mushrooms generally have higher psilocybin content, which can affect the intensity of the psychedelic experience. Some individuals may prefer the potency of mushrooms, while others might seek a milder experience with truffles.
Duration: The difference in onset time and duration of effects might influence the choice of substance. Some users might prefer the relatively shorter duration of psilocybin mushrooms, while others might appreciate the longer-lasting effects of psilocybin truffles.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Some individuals might be drawn to the historical and cultural significance of psilocybin mushrooms, especially if they are interested in exploring ancient rituals and traditions. Conversely, others may find intrigue in the revival of psilocybin truffles' significance in contemporary contexts.
Personal Tolerance and Sensitivity: Each person's body chemistry is unique, and individual responses to psilocybin mushrooms and truffles can vary. Some people may find they connect better with one substance over the other due to personal sensitivity or tolerance levels.

Ultimately, the suitability of one over the other is subjective and based on personal preferences and intentions. What is crucial is that individuals approach the use of any psychoactive substance, including psilocybin-containing fungi, with responsibility, respect, and a commitment to harm reduction. It is essential to be informed, understand potential risks, and create a safe and supportive environment for the psychedelic experience. Consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced guide or mental health professional can also enhance the overall safety and positive outcomes of such experiences.

Question 5

Is it allowed to mix the mushrooms with other substances like marijuana, rappeh, or other entheogens, during the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

We do not Judge combining substances, but it is not allowed during this ceremony or retreat. We trust you come sober and agree to stick to the way we offer the ceremony.

Question 6

Can you compare magic mushrooms with ayahuasca?

Accepted Answer

At our centre we only use the mushrooms, we never use ayahuasca or other plant medicines.

Because ayahuasca has gotten a lot of media attention in the last 10 years, many people ask us what is the difference or similarity with mushrooms.

Well, the DMT (in ayahuasca) and psilocin (in truffles) are similar molecules. Both are closely related to our bodies own serotonin and function similarly. There are a lot of similarities, but every mind expanding substance has its own character. mushrooms/truffles are, in contrast to ayahuasca, very mild for the body, the physical detox (vomiting/diarrhea) is lesser with mushrooms than with ayahuasca. The mushrooms generally have a more playful and extravert nature, as for ayahuasca you can expect a more introvert journey.

Question 7

What about dosage?

Accepted Answer

The dosage we serve to each individual is personal, depending on anxiety and guardedness, personality type and intentions, body size, 1:1 conversations and many other elements that influence the experience. The truffles are included, you don’t have to bring your own. They are quite tasty, a bit like nuts..

Depending on the type of retreat you choose there is also a maximum dosage.

Maximum dosage 2 or 3 day retreat: Beginners 15 grams and advanced 25 grams fresh truffles
Maximum dosage 5 dat retreat: beginners 20 grams and advanced 30 grams fresh truffles
Maximum dosage standard private ceremony: 25 grams 
Maximum dosage heroic private ceremony: 40 grams fresh truffles

Question 8

How 'inclusive' are our retreats

Accepted Answer

Embrace your authentic self! At our retreat center, we welcome individuals from all walks of life with open arms and open hearts. Our guiding principle is to create a space where everyone feels accepted, respected, and valued for who they are. We believe that diversity enriches our experiences and fosters a sense of unity among all our guests.

Inclusivity is at the core of our ethos, where each person is encouraged to express their true selves freely. Whether you identify with a particular gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or cultural background, you will find a warm and supportive community that celebrates uniqueness and embraces differences. As a center that promotes openness and understanding, we prioritize creating an atmosphere that nurtures meaningful connections and shared experiences. We believe that by fostering a sense of belonging, we can help individuals grow and flourish on their personal journeys.

No Special treatment

While we are committed to providing a warm and respectful atmosphere, we do not offer specific treatments like gender-neutral toilets or separate accommodations for gender-neutral or transgender individuals. Our facilities are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all guests. We believe in treating all individuals equally, without singling out any specific group for special attention.
Our goal is to foster a sense of unity and equality among all guests, recognizing and celebrating the diversity of identities and experiences that each person brings to our community. We encourage open dialogue and active listening, where each individual's needs and concerns are addressed with empathy and understanding. We feel in the first place we are all humans. Dress in whatever you like and believe in whatever feels best, but know that not everybody will share your taste or believes. Deal with that too. Don't force yourself or your ways onto others. Be respectful, and you'll receive the respect back.

Question 9

I have to cancel my reservation, what now?

Accepted Answer

Cancelling your reservation is always possible, but can include cancelation fees. Cancellation is only possible by email reserveren.earthawareness@gmail.com
Check the information on this website of the retreat you've booked for the cancellation policy.

Frequently asked questions