Rythmia and the Rise of Ayahuasca Retreats: A Look Inside Plant Medicine
The opening notes of Alex Ebert’s song “Truth” set the tone for a new docuseries exploring the world of ayahuasca and personal transformation. Plant Medicine: A Journey of Healing, Awakening, and the Miracle Within offers an unprecedented look inside Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Costa Rica, the world’s first medically licensed ayahuasca retreat. The six-episode series follows seven individuals as they confront personal challenges through immersive experiences with ayahuasca, combined with a comprehensive program of personal development.
What is Rythmia?
Founded in 2016 by Gerard Armond Powell, Rythmia has hosted over 22,000 guests as of January 2026. Powell created the center after experiencing a personal transformation through ayahuasca, aiming to provide a safe and medically supervised environment for others seeking healing. Rythmia combines traditional ayahuasca ceremonies with practices like breathwork, yoga, metaphysical classes, and a nutrient-rich, farm-to-table diet. The center’s approach, known as “The Rythmia Way,” integrates ancient wisdom with modern science.
Who Participates in Ayahuasca Retreats?
The docuseries features a diverse group of participants, including a disabled Gulf War veteran, a rehabilitated bank robber, a social media influencer, an actor, a model, an actress and writer grieving a loss, and a mother seeking meaning. Each individual carries significant emotional weight and is at a turning point in their life. The series documents their experiences before, during, and after the week-long retreat, showcasing the potential for profound personal change.
The Ayahuasca Experience and Potential Benefits
Plant Medicine captures the raw and unguarded experiences of participants undergoing ayahuasca ceremonies guided by master healers within Rythmia’s medically supervised framework. Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew traditionally used in indigenous Amazonian cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. The series explores the potential for ayahuasca to facilitate deep emotional release, self-discovery, and lasting transformation. Rythmia reports that 98% of guests self-report experiencing a “miracle” – a permanently life-changing revelation – during their time at the center.
Notable Figures and Support
Rythmia has attracted a notable Board of Directors, including Kelly Slater, Cesar Millan, and Ron White, demonstrating growing interest in alternative healing modalities. The series highlights the convergence of ancient practices and modern wellness approaches, appealing to individuals seeking holistic healing solutions.
Where to Watch
Plant Medicine: A Journey of Healing, Awakening, and the Miracle Within is currently streaming on Gaia. Interested individuals are encouraged to book their experience soon, as demand is high.