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Incredible!!

Thank you Matt, Jeanae and Drew! Four weeks ago today, I arrived in Costa Rica to participate in a five day ayahuasca retreat with a bundle of nerves and a ton of anxiety but with an optimism about finally getting to experience this plant medicine I had been contemplating for years. I will leave out my personal experience as personal is exactly what it is. The experiences of the five people in our group were as broad as each of our personalities and what had called us to this experience. Rather, I will focus on the great care and beautiful setting you will get should you be called to New Life. The property is absolutely stunning situated in the mountains with a gorgeous view of the Nicoya Peninsula in the distance. It has communal spaces and a dining room where you’ll spend a lot of time getting to know the others in your group, a pool and hot tub and winding hiking trails where we saw white face monkeys and toucans almost daily. Each guest has their own comfortable bedroom with private bathroom which was important to me. In between Jeanae’s delicious meals, ceremony day yoga sessions, massages, a kambo ceremony, a waterfall hike, evening bonfires and getting to know the others in your group, there is a decent amount of down time to reflect, relax and set your intention and having a private space can be important to that.

Matt, Jeanae and Drew are wonderful at what they do. They are compassionate and patient and humble about the work that they do and the care that they provide. Matt participates in each ceremony alongside the guests and guides the experience with traditional and beautiful icaros. The music he and Jeanae make with gong, guitar, drums, flute and voice adds to the absolute intensity of the journey guiding you through the experience and creating personal transitions. Jeanae and Drew sit in patiently and quietly to tend to any needs you might have. I initially thought I would feel vulnerable having them sit in with eyes on the group but it is likely you will need their assistance at times and without them, the experience would be very different. Having them there was comforting and necessary.

Thanks again Matt, Jeanae and Drew! I’ll never forget this experience and am so glad mine was with you!

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Thank you Matt, Jeanae and Drew! Four weeks ago today, I arrived in Costa Rica to participate in a five day ayahuasca retreat with a bundle of nerves and a ton of anxiety but with an optimism about finally getting to experience this plant medicine I had been contemplating for years. I will leave out my personal experience as personal is exactly what it is. The experiences of the five people in our group were as broad as each of our personalities and what had called us to this experience. Rather, I will focus on the great care and beautiful setting you will get should you be called to New Life. The property is absolutely stunning situated in the mountains with a gorgeous view of the Nicoya Peninsula in the distance. It has communal spaces and a dining room where you’ll spend a lot of time getting to know the others in your group, a pool and hot tub and winding hiking trails where we saw white face monkeys and toucans almost daily. Each guest has their own comfortable bedroom with private bathroom which was important to me. In between Jeanae’s delicious meals, ceremony day yoga sessions, massages, a kambo ceremony, a waterfall hike, evening bonfires and getting to know the others in your group, there is a decent amount of down time to reflect, relax and set your intention and having a private space can be important to that.

Matt, Jeanae and Drew are wonderful at what they do. They are compassionate and patient and humble about the work that they do and the care that they provide. Matt participates in each ceremony alongside the guests and guides the experience with traditional and beautiful icaros. The music he and Jeanae make with gong, guitar, drums, flute and voice adds to the absolute intensity of the journey guiding you through the experience and creating personal transitions. Jeanae and Drew sit in patiently and quietly to tend to any needs you might have. I initially thought I would feel vulnerable having them sit in with eyes on the group but it is likely you will need their assistance at times and without them, the experience would be very different. Having them there was comforting and necessary.

Thanks again Matt, Jeanae and Drew! I’ll never forget this experience and am so glad mine was with you!

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Our second ceremony in a little over a month

This was our (my wife and I) second visit to NLA in a little over a month. Our first was in July 2019. Seems a bit unorthodox to repeat an experience in a short period of time given the amount of information one gathers from a retreat such as this. Anyone who has ever gone through something like this knows exactly what I’m referring to.

Needless to say, it’s a testament to two points:

Our experience with plant medicine was so exceptionally profound we felt compelled to come back in search of answers to more questions we had about ourselves.
The care and support offered at NLA is nothing short of excellent. Without Matt, Jeanae and Drew to help facilitate our experience, there’s no way we would have had as profound an experience as we did (in our previous and most current experiences at NLA).

We signed up for the 7 day retreat (3 plant medicine ceremonies, 1 kambo, 1 rape, and 1 San Pedro experience). There were a total of 8 participants, which we felt was ideal. I know there are other centers that cater to larger groups and while I can’t comment on what that experience is like given that I’ve never engaged in plant medicine ceremonies of that caliber, I can say that with 8 people, it allowed for a more intimate experience with the other participants. Not only did we use the retreat as an opportunity to connect with ourselves, but we were able to connect with the other members from the group in a deep and meaningful manner, of which we were grateful. It’s not every day you to meet random strangers, open up about each other’s vulnerabilities, and go on several intense journeys of self discovery.

Matt’s presence as the ayahuascero is commanding and awe inspiring. How he is able to conjure up the strength to channel the medicine’s powers and convey them in such a manner that leaves a powerfully indelible impression is beyond comprehension. His live performance is one that will leave you feeling inspired.

If Matt is the engine of NLA, Jeanae is the soul. She keeps the place running by organizing the daily activities, leads the yoga classes, prepares the meals (which are delicious and nourishing for the soul), and provides emotional support during the ceremony. She has a wonderful caring disposition about her.

Drew is a jack of all trades. He does a little bit of everything to keep the facility running smoothly. There’s a magnetism about him that draws you to him. He has a remarkably positive way of viewing life (after going through some dark periods himself) that’s infectious and uplifting. There were several times during my experience where his presence positively impacted me (and my wife).

If safety is a concern, I can assure you that the only concern you’ll have is the one in your subconscious. Then again, that’s why people are signing up for this, aren’t they? To understand themselves in a deeper way but from a completely different and novel perspective. Other than that, NLA engages all of the plant ceremonies in a safe manner. They don’t coerce anyone to do anything that they’re not comfortable with. They’re available to answer whatever questions or concerns you may have about your experience. As previously mentioned, they purposefully keep the group sizes to 6-8 people at each retreat in order to be able to provide a more personalized experience.

We could not be more grateful for both of our experiences at NLA and we absolutely recommend this place to anyone who is interested in plant medicine ceremonies.

P.S. Chopper is one hell of a cat.

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2nd ceremony

This was our (my wife and I) second visit to NLA in a little over a month. Our first was in July 2019. Seems a bit unorthodox to repeat an experience in a short period of time given the amount of information one gathers from a retreat such as this. Anyone who has ever gone through something like this knows exactly what I’m referring to.

Needless to say, it’s a testament to two points:

Our experience with plant medicine was so exceptionally profound we felt compelled to come back in search of answers to more questions we had about ourselves.
The care and support offered at NLA is nothing short of excellent. Without Matt, Jeanae and Drew to help facilitate our experience, there’s no way we would have had as profound an experience as we did (in our previous and most current experiences at NLA).

We signed up for the 7 day retreat (3 plant medicine ceremonies, 1 kambo, 1 rape, and 1 San Pedro experience). There were a total of 8 participants, which we felt was ideal. I know there are other centers that cater to larger groups and while I can’t comment on what that experience is like given that I’ve never engaged in plant medicine ceremonies of that caliber, I can say that with 8 people, it allowed for a more intimate experience with the other participants. Not only did we use the retreat as an opportunity to connect with ourselves, but we were able to connect with the other members from the group in a deep and meaningful manner, of which we were grateful. It’s not every day you to meet random strangers, open up about each other’s vulnerabilities, and go on several intense journeys of self discovery.

Matt’s presence as the ayahuascero is commanding and awe inspiring. How he is able to conjure up the strength to channel the medicine’s powers and convey them in such a manner that leaves a powerfully indelible impression is beyond comprehension. His live performance is one that will leave you feeling inspired.

If Matt is the engine of NLA, Jeanae is the soul. She keeps the place running by organizing the daily activities, leads the yoga classes, prepares the meals (which are delicious and nourishing for the soul), and provides emotional support during the ceremony. She has a wonderful caring disposition about her.

Drew is a jack of all trades. He does a little bit of everything to keep the facility running smoothly. There’s a magnetism about him that draws you to him. He has a remarkably positive way of viewing life (after going through some dark periods himself) that’s infectious and uplifting. There were several times during my experience where his presence positively impacted me (and my wife).

If safety is a concern, I can assure you that the only concern you’ll have is the one in your subconscious. Then again, that’s why people are signing up for this, aren’t they? To understand themselves in a deeper way but from a completely different and novel perspective. Other than that, NLA engages all of the plant ceremonies in a safe manner. They don’t coerce anyone to do anything that they’re not comfortable with. They’re available to answer whatever questions or concerns you may have about your experience. As previously mentioned, they purposefully keep the group sizes to 6-8 people at each retreat in order to be able to provide a more personalized experience.

We could not be more grateful for both of our experiences at NLA and we absolutely recommend this place to anyone who is interested in plant medicine ceremonies.

Google Text

This was our (my wife and I) second visit to NLA in a little over a month. Our first was in July 2019. Seems a bit unorthodox to repeat an experience in a short period of time given the amount of information one gathers from a retreat such as this. Anyone who has ever gone through something like this knows exactly what I’m referring to.

Needless to say, it’s a testament to two points:

Our experience with plant medicine was so exceptionally profound we felt compelled to come back in search of answers to more questions we had about ourselves.
The care and support offered at NLA is nothing short of excellent. Without Matt, Jeanae and Drew to help facilitate our experience, there’s no way we would have had as profound an experience as we did (in our previous and most current experiences at NLA).

We signed up for the 7 day retreat (3 plant medicine ceremonies, 1 kambo, 1 rape, and 1 San Pedro experience). There were a total of 8 participants, which we felt was ideal. I know there are other centers that cater to larger groups and while I can’t comment on what that experience is like given that I’ve never engaged in plant medicine ceremonies of that caliber, I can say that with 8 people, it allowed for a more intimate experience with the other participants. Not only did we use the retreat as an opportunity to connect with ourselves, but we were able to connect with the other members from the group in a deep and meaningful manner, of which we were grateful. It’s not every day you to meet random strangers, open up about each other’s vulnerabilities, and go on several intense journeys of self discovery.

Matt’s presence as the ayahuascero is commanding and awe inspiring. How he is able to conjure up the strength to channel the medicine’s powers and convey them in such a manner that leaves a powerfully indelible impression is beyond comprehension. His live performance is one that will leave you feeling inspired.

If Matt is the engine of NLA, Jeanae is the soul. She keeps the place running by organizing the daily activities, leads the yoga classes, prepares the meals (which are delicious and nourishing for the soul), and provides emotional support during the ceremony. She has a wonderful caring disposition about her.

Drew is a jack of all trades. He does a little bit of everything to keep the facility running smoothly. There’s a magnetism about him that draws you to him. He has a remarkably positive way of viewing life (after going through some dark periods himself) that’s infectious and uplifting. There were several times during my experience where his presence positively impacted me (and my wife).

If safety is a concern, I can assure you that the only concern you’ll have is the one in your subconscious. Then again, that’s why people are signing up for this, aren’t they? To understand themselves in a deeper way but from a completely different and novel perspective. Other than that, NLA engages all of the plant ceremonies in a safe manner. They don’t coerce anyone to do anything that they’re not comfortable with. They’re available to answer whatever questions or concerns you may have about your experience. As previously mentioned, they purposefully keep the group sizes to 6-8 people at each retreat in order to be able to provide a more personalized experience.

We could not be more grateful for both of our experiences at NLA and we absolutely recommend this place to anyone who is interested in plant medicine ceremonies.

P.S. Chopper is one hell of a cat.

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For all of you wayfaring itinerants who are looking for an adventure, but more importantly, are interested in doing some heavy introspection, I can’t imagine a better site for your first time than with Jeanae and Matt at New Life Ayahuasca.

About an hour west of San Jose, NLA is located in the mountains of San Ramon. J&M do an excellent job of handling the logistics of getting you from the international airport to their site, so if you have any questions about how you’ll arrive to San Ramon, don’t even worry. Just follow the detailed email instructions Jeanae sends you prior to your trip.

My wife and I opted for the 5-day retreat (our first time with this excursion), but in retrospect, we wish we had signed up for the 7-day retreat (to take advantage of the third ceremony) because we were blown away by our experiences with the two that were offered with the 5-day. While you’re going to have an experience irrespective of where you pursue your journey, my wife and I attribute our life-altering experiences to Matt, Jeanae, and Drew.

Matt participates and leads the ceremony and possesses commanding presence to the extent that you cannot help but admire the strength it takes for him to be able to lead such an intense journey all these years. I just don’t understand how someone can simultaneously go deep within himself while also performing the icaros. And no doubt Jeanae and Drew also play an equally important role in ensuring that everyone is safe and supported during this process.

Meals were prepared by Jeanae, all of which were delicious. The location is private and allows for hiking (there’s 20 acres of land for you to wander around) and swimming (there’s an Olympic sized pool and spa steps away from the retreat center). I can certainly vouch for all of the reviews on this site sharing the details of how the retreat is run (yoga, massages, waterfall, etc). The four other guests who arrived at the retreat were all wonderful people. We’re glad that everyone was able to develop a rapport and trust each other especially given how vulnerable you expose yourself to the experience and the days after going deep with introspection.

What I really appreciate about NLA is their laid-back approach to the experience. J&M are two of the most unassuming, down to earth people you will meet and I could not have imagined a better couple (along with Drew) to have been our guides. They don’t force you to participate in the activities offered at the retreat nor do they expect you to share your thoughts and feelings about your experience, but they are certainly open and receptive should you need someone to talk to.

I remember after the first ceremony, my wife and I spent some time outside by the firepit with Drew. Let me just say that I was happy and relieved that an individual like Drew was at NLA. Gregarious, knowledgeable, and a willingness to be vulnerable around complete strangers, I could not have imagined a better individual to decompress to. His presence put me at ease and gave me the space to be able to synthesize what could only be described as ineffable. It meant a lot.

I’m digressing. I’ll just conclude with if you’re looking for a safe, clean, relaxing atmosphere, look no further than NLA. The retreat center is beautiful, private, and spacious. Jeanae, Matt, and Drew are absolutely wonderful hosts.

One last note: they've got 3 cats on the property, but one of them, Chopper, will help you on your journey. He's a protector of sorts. ;-)

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New life ayahuasca review.

I'm not one to write reviews or really anything to be honest so I'm sorry if I leave a lot out but here goes. I booked my trip on a wed for the retreat starting Friday. My life was falling apart and I was drowning, I couldn't see a future and felt no hope. I arrived on friday and I was nervous and scared, I had never been one to be overly spiritual and was unsure what to expect but I just knew I was somehow in the right place. Matt and Jeanea are incredible people, their story is so inspiring and you feel truly cared for and safe. You check in and shown to your own room which is a wonderful thing, the beds are very comfortable and its comforting to have a space to reflect and be alone with your thoughts and intentions. Next is a tour of the grounds which are incredible, the space they have there is absolutely perfect for the journey your on. There are trails to walk and reflect, a pool house and hot tub to relax in and the views from the patio are so beautiful. All your meals are provided for and are incredibly delicious and healthy. There are 2 ceremonies both conducted by Matt who puts his heart and soul into each one and your left wondering how he can do it. You always feel safe and cared for and Jeanae and Drew are there for anything you need during the 4 hr ceremony. I won't go into detail about my experiences on the medicine because I believe everyone's is different but I will say this, that I believe it saved my life. The analogy that keeps popping up in my head now a couple days later with time to reflect on it is I was in a boat being thrashed by a storm and I was sinking, I was drowning. I was sure there was no way out. But finding new life ayahuasca and Matt and Jeanae and the other guests was like finding the eye of the storm and mother ayahuasca didn't fix the storm but she helped me fix the boat and realize I'm not alone. The storm still rages but my boat is so much stronger, strong enough to make it through. I feel such hope now, I feel such gratitude for life again. Words can't describe the thanks I have for these people and that place but I'll try.
Thank you Matt, thank you Jenea, thank you Drew. This experience meant more to me then I can express into words and I hope to share the messages and lessons I learned from you all and from Mother ayahuasca there through my actions going forward.
One last thank you has to be said to the people that shared in this journey with me. Katie, Whitney, Ros, and Cooper, thank you for being so open and accepting and I wish nothing but the best for you all going forward. I hope we keep in contact but until then I hope the experiences you had stay with you like they are with me and you feel Mother ayahuascas light inside you and it guides you on your journey forward.

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Forever grateful

I'm not one to write reviews or really anything to be honest so I'm sorry if I leave a lot out but here goes. I booked my trip on a wed for the retreat starting Friday. My life was falling apart and I was drowning, I couldn't see a future and felt no hope. I arrived on friday and I was nervous and scared, I had never been one to be overly spiritual and was unsure what to expect but I just knew I was somehow in the right place. Matt and Jenea are incredible people, their story is so inspiring and you feel truly cared for and safe. You check in and shown to your own room which is a wonderful thing, the beds are very comfortable and its comforting to have a space to reflect and be alone with your thoughts and intentions. Next is a tour of the grounds which are incredible, the space they have there is absolutely perfect for the journey your on. There are trails to walk and reflect, a pool house and hot tub to relax in and the views from the patio are so beautiful. All your meals are provided for and are incredibly delicious and healthy. The next night was the 1st of the 2 ceremonies and I won't go into detail about my experience on the medicine because I believe everyone's is different but I will say this, that I believe it saved my life. The analogy that keeps popping up in my head now a couple days later with time to reflect on it is I was in a boat being thrashed by a storm and I was sinking, I was drowning. I was sure there was no way out. But finding new life ayahuasca and Matt and Jenea and the other guests was like finding the eye of the storm and mother ayahuasca didn't fix the storm but she helped me fix the boat and realize I'm not alone. The storm still rages but my boat is so much stronger, strong enough to make it through. I feel such hope now, I feel such gratitude for life again. Words can't describe the thanks I have for these people and that place but I'll try.
Thank you Matt, thank you Jenea, thank you Drew. This experience meant more to me then I can express into words and I hope to share the messages and lessons I learned from you all and from Mother ayahuasca there through my actions going forward.
One last thank you has to be said to the people that shared in this journey with me. Katie, Whitney, Ros, and Cooper, thank you for being so open and accepting and I wish nothing but the best for you all going forward. I hope we keep in contact but until then I hope the experiences you had stay with you like they are with me and you feel Mother ayahuascas light inside you and it guides you on your journey forward.

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Serenity

This was my first ayahuasca trip, and I am eternally grateful I chose New Life. I was interested in going somewhere that offered a space to feel relaxed and comforted because I had read that the ceremonies can be quite difficult, physically and mentally. I also enjoyed that I would not have to worry about transportation from the airport. I liked that the website offered a lot of information on Matt, Jeanae, and Drew, as they were present throughout the retreat. I felt safe that there were such great people to help me before, during, and after the ceremonies. Each person was so knowledgeable, personable, and open. It felt like we were all going through the experience together, despite this being their job. The ceremonies were exquisite, the massages and yoga sessions were calming, and the waterfall was beautiful. I highly recommend New Life and wish that everyone could experience such a profound and personal and deep spiritual event.

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It’s been a week since my returning from a place of miracles New Life Ayahuasca in Costa Rica and I am feeling all kinds of feels upon arrival . Feeling deep gratitude to Matt and Janae and everyone at New Life for creating and guiding unto the experience of a lifetime ! The place couldn’t be more perfect and appropriate for the healing they provide and guide you unto . The accommodations are beautiful and serene with plenty of space for each participant to indulge into as well as beautiful shared common areas . The spectacular position of a place opens you up to a miraculous scenery and divine views which creates beautiful support in your healing journey . The love and care you feel from Janae and Matt is immerse and genuine , feeling right at home and right where you need to be. I would highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a safe , mindful , loving and true way of healing with sacred plants. The food is an absolute Yum Heaven with plenty of great variety of options for every diet you may be on. I truly cannot wait to return back to New Life for more experiences and journeys ! I am truly grateful for all to Matt and Janae and All the friends at New Life ❤️

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Jeanea and Matt are guardians ! There really aren't words to describe the experience I had at NLA, but it was truly life changing. Whenever the medicine calls me back there is only one place I will be returning to. From the phone conversation with Jeanea to the last goodbyes everything was perfect. I have already recommended NLA to my friends, because Jeanea and Matt take care of you in every way possible. You literally only need to bring yourself, and for Caribbean people, bring warm clothes and socks :). The resort is so beautiful, with acres of plants, a pool, hot tub, great cooking & mountainous views. My favorite parts were being in the clouds, literally. You are so high that the clouds are in your atmosphere. And being introduced to Rambuten, man oh man. Jeanea serves these during breakfast and I fell in love !

I met 7 of the most beautiful strangers that became brothers and sisters to me. From all different parts of the world, a nice mixing pot we were. And believe the hype Jeanea's cooking is awesome. I was a pescatarian for over 7 years but after those grilled chickens and eggs, my diet is much happier !!

My room was very nice & big, with beautiful furnishing and decor, a walk in shower. A soft bed with my favorite color sheets. I am glad I made the decision, because other places were advertising the experience as a shared accommodation with a multitude of people within the ceremonies at a much higher price. But because the groups are limited to 8 it is much more personal and it allowed us all to get know each other.

Matt is very easy to talk to, and man does he know what he is doing. I really cant put my experience in words. Humility shines all around Matt, and we asked him some pretty personal questions and he kept it real ! I have much respect for him. Especially after those icarios and that laugh !! That deep shamanic laugh, LOL ! Beautiful singing and playing of the guitars and flute. Such a transformation.

And of course, I cannot forget Drew ! This guy is awesome. And with my new career change I am sure you and I will meet again Pura Vida mi amigo !

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Spiritually transcendent and profound

For all of you wayfaring itinerants who are looking for an adventure, but more importantly, are interested in doing some heavy introspection, I can’t imagine a better site for your first time than with Jeanae and Matt at New Life Ayahuasca.

About an hour west of San Jose, NLA is located in the mountains of San Ramon. J&M do an excellent job of handling the logistics of getting you from the international airport to their site, so if you have any questions about how you’ll arrive to San Ramon, don’t even worry. Just follow the detailed email instructions Jeanae sends you prior to your trip.

My wife and I opted for the 5-day retreat (our first time with this excursion), but in retrospect, we wish we had signed up for the 7-day retreat (to take advantage of the third ceremony) because we were blown away by our experiences with the two that were offered with the 5-day. While you’re going to have an experience irrespective of where you pursue your journey, my wife and I attribute our life-altering experiences to Matt, Jeanae, and Drew.

Matt participates and leads the ceremony and possesses commanding presence to the extent that you cannot help but admire the strength it takes for him to be able to lead such an intense journey all these years. I just don’t understand how someone can simultaneously go deep within himself while also performing the icaros. And no doubt Jeanae and Drew also play an equally important role in ensuring that everyone is safe and supported during this process.

Meals were prepared by Jeanae, all of which were delicious. The location is private and allows for hiking (there’s 20 acres of land for you to wander around) and swimming (there’s an Olympic sized pool and spa steps away from the retreat center). I can certainly vouch for all of the reviews on this site sharing the details of how the retreat is run (yoga, massages, waterfall, etc). The four other guests who arrived at the retreat were all wonderful people. We’re glad that everyone was able to develop a rapport and trust each other especially given how vulnerable you expose yourself to the experience and the days after going deep with introspection.

What I really appreciate about NLA is their laid-back approach to the experience. J&M are two of the most unassuming, down to earth people you will meet and I could not have imagined a better couple (along with Drew) to have been our guides. They don’t force you to participate in the activities offered at the retreat nor do they expect you to share your thoughts and feelings about your experience, but they are certainly open and receptive should you need someone to talk to.

I remember after the first ceremony, my wife and I spent some time outside by the firepit with Drew. Let me just say that I was happy and relieved that an individual like Drew was at NLA. Gregarious, knowledgeable, and a willingness to be vulnerable around complete strangers, I could not have imagined a better individual to decompress to. His presence put me at ease and gave me the space to be able to synthesize what could only be described as ineffable. It meant a lot.

I’m digressing. I’ll just conclude with if you’re looking for a safe, clean, relaxing atmosphere, look no further than NLA. The retreat center is beautiful, private, and spacious. Jeanae, Matt, and Drew are absolutely wonderful hosts.

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The resort was beautiful, the hosts were amazing, an experience not to be missed.

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No Words can Truly Express...

5 Stars is not enough! Words cannot adequately express what Matt and Jeanae and their support staff do for their retreat guests! The days spent at their mountainside retreat will transform you forever! The person you are on arrival and the person you will be, days later when you leave, are definitely never the same again! The experiences and transformations you will experience are definitely NOT for the faint-of-heart, or those who are 'weak-minded'. This is a definite calling you have to follow when you (should you ever) receive it. Small, intimate groups of 6-8 participants, and daily living together 24/7 for the duration of your week, will transform strangers into friends into family! it's impossible to recommend this retreat strongly enough. I will be back.

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Jeanae & Matt were very compassionate and knowledgeable in their work. They were warm humble loving and provided a truely
genuine and unforgettable experience. The ceremony was very powerful. Matt's voice was a wonderful guide into the journey and Jeanae's presence offered comfort. They were also very accommodating to my specific dietary and medical needs which felt very safe and welcoming. I absolutely adored everything about the experience and hope to come again. Thank you!!!!

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5 Stars is not enough! Words cannot adequately express what Matt and Jeanae and their support staff do for their retreat guests! The days spent at their mountainside retreat will transform you forever! The person you are on arrival and the person you will be, days later when you leave, are definitely never the same again! The experiences and transformations you will experience are definitely NOT for the faint-of-heart, or those who are 'weak-minded'. This is a definite calling you have to follow when you (should you ever) receive it. Small, intimate groups of 6-8 participants, and daily living together 24/7 for the duration of your week, will transform strangers into friends into family! it's impossible to recommend this retreat strongly enough. I will be back.

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A Place to Learn and Grow

I could not imagine having done Ayahuasca at any other facility. At New Life the environment is one of beauty, peace, healing and constant support. It is truly a place were you can unplug and focus on self growth and regeneration. There is no judgement, no pressure, everybody is accepted and respected exactly how they are and where they are in their journey. Matt and Jeanae were gentle, supportive and informative. Also, they are prepared and organized. Everything you need to be comfortable as well as healthy meals, yoga classes, quiet places to sit and read or journal and evenings talking around a bonfire. The groups are small and each person has their own room and bathroom. I felt this was super important because I needed a private place to process and to quiet my mind at times. Although, the the six others that attended the retreat with me were some of the nicest people I have ever met. My seven day retreat was everything and more than I had hoped for. I felt very relaxed during the Ayahuasca and the Kambo ceremonies even though this was my first experience with both medicines. It has been a week since my retreat and I feel continued improvements everyday. I sleep better, have more energy, feel stronger and am definitely more focused. My path continues to open up for me, this is an awesome journey! I am forever grateful to Matt, Jeanae and New Life Ayahuascsa. I would go back in a heartbeat.

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Set, Setting, and Sincerity

What a profound experience! This was my first experience with Ayahuasca and plant medicines in general. I was in a difficult transition phase in my life where my career, relationships, and mindset all felt like they were flying off the rails. I needed a catalyst to break out of this negative feedback loop and to start enjoying life again. I had done enough research on Ayahuasca to know that it was worth a try, but I did much more research on finding a practitioner that I could trust, and an environment where I would feel safe. I came across New Life by doing a google search and read all of their reviews, and was immediately convinced that this was the place.

SET - Jeanae and Matt have designed a program around having the most meaningful experience with the medicine. While this experience may not always be comfortable, they ensure that whatever experience you have, you will be safe and will be adequately assisted by experienced staff if needed. Their program also helps you develop an optimal mindset going into each ceremony. This is achieved by the healthy and delicious daily meals prepared by Jeanae. The meals were Aya-friendly, Tico-oriented, veggie friendly, and absolutely delicious! Their program also prepares you by offering a comprehensive yoga session each ceremony day, which consists of light flow, some balancing, some ab-work for the puke muscles, followed by savasana and a light shoulder massage. Finally, they provide you ample downtime each day, for meditation, intention setting, and reflection, which is very important ahead of ceremony.

SETTING - The property is absolutely astounding! It is several acres and includes hiking trails, quiet lookouts with amazing views, a lap pool, a hot-tub, and plenty of nature to explore. On my hike I saw some white face monkeys, toucans, and what I am still convinced are flying turkeys (no one believed me). There were also several common areas for guests to congregate, sip tea, and have post-ceremony crazy-talk. The most important factor with this property is the fact that each guest had their own private room and private bathroom. Each room was surprisingly large and the bed was very comfortable. I found that private rooms are not always offered with other retreats, which is unbelievable to me. While puking together in ceremony is quite the bonding experience, it is very important to have your own space to relax in peace and quiet, and to celebrate your own private toilet-time. I cannot stress this enough.

SINCERITY - Matt, Jeanae, and Drew are extremely experienced with the medicine and have the upmost respect and integrity when working with it. Matt does not call himself a shaman, which is a loosely used term these days. I will say that I was blown away by his knowledge, authenticity, sincerity, and respect for the medicine. Matt has an unbelievable gift with music and conducting the ceremony. I have watched several ceremonies on YouTube after this retreat, and nothing comes close. It is hard to describe, but to use a gringo word, it is LEGIT. Jeanae is also extremely talented and plays the flute towards the end of the ceremony. This is a very peaceful transition in the ceremony, and I am grateful for that peace (you will be too!). Drew was also very experienced and helpful in ceremony. I cannot thank you both enough for caring for us in ceremony!

Overall, I can't say enough positive things about this experience and the amazing people behind it. I hope to make this trip again sometime. It was truly an unforgettable experience.
Gracias para todo! Pura Vida!
Jonathan

New Life Rising

Customer reviews

Incredible!!

Our second ceremony in a little over a month

2nd ceremony

Forever grateful

Serenity

Spiritually transcendent and profound

No Words can Truly Express...

A Place to Learn and Grow

Set, Setting, and Sincerity

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