Do I have to take Plant Medicine?

So, here’s the thing:I get asked a lot about plant medicine. Like, a lot.

When people approach me about shamanism, one of the first things they often ask is, “What plant medicine ceremonies do you lead?” It’s a completely understandable question — especially in today’s world, where plant medicine has become almost synonymous with shamanic practice. But here’s the real truth: plant medicine isn’t for everyone, and there are as many kinds of ceremonies as there are stars in the sky.

A Growing Trend: The Pressure to Join the Plant Medicine Movement

As plant medicine becomes more mainstream, I’ve noticed an interesting trend — many people feel a subtle (or not-so-subtle) pressure to take part in these ceremonies. And I get it. The stories of deep healing, insight, and transformation are compelling. It can start to feel like this is the path to walk if you’re serious about your spiritual growth or connection to Spirit.

But here’s the thing: plant medicine is just one path among many — and it’s not the right path for everyone. If you feel genuinely called to it, that’s beautiful. But if you’re unsure, hesitant, or it doesn’t resonate with your soul, that’s absolutely okay too. Your spiritual path is sacred and unique. What matters most is that it’s true to you.

Respecting Your Intuition

If you’re considering plant medicine and asking yourself whether it’s right for you, here’s my advice: listen to your intuition. If something feels off — or if you're feeling pressure to say yes when your body or spirit is whispering no — that’s your inner guidance speaking. Honor that.

It’s okay to say, “Not right now,” or even, “Not at all.”

You’re not missing out or falling behind. You’re listening to your wisdom. And that is the heart of any true spiritual path.

Personally, plant medicine isn’t a part of my practice. I’ve found profound healing, insight, and connection through other means — ceremony in nature, working with the elements and ancestors, listening to the land, and tending the invisible threads of energy and intention that weave us all together. And the truth is: you don’t need plant medicine to have a deep, meaningful, transformative experience. You really don’t.

Shamanism is About You

The beauty of shamanism lies in its diversity — it’s not a one-size-fits-all journey. There are so many ways to connect with Spirit, to enter non-ordinary states of consciousness, and to touch the mystery.

If plant medicine is part of your path, I honor that. But if it’s not, I honor that too. What matters most is authenticity. Your path should feel like home — even when it challenges you.

And let’s remember: ceremony doesn’t have to be elaborate, or involve any special tools or substances. Ceremony is born from intention. You can create sacred space in your kitchen, in a forest, with a candle, or with your breath. Spirit meets us wherever we are when we show up with presence and reverence.

Practices that Open the Door of perception (Without Substances)

There are many beautiful, time-tested shamanic practices that allow us to shift into altered states and connect with the unseen. Some of these include:

1. Drumming – The rhythmic pulse guides you into the spirit realms.

2. Dancing and Movement – A way to shake off the mundane and awaken the sacred within.

3. Breathwork – Conscious breathing can unlock visionary states and deep healing.

4. Fasting – A rite of purification and clarity.

5. Sound Healing – Using vibration to realign body, mind, and soul.

6. Meditation & Visualization – Inner journeys to realms beyond the veil.

7. Sacred Rituals – Simple or elaborate, these anchor intention and invite spirit.

8. Dreamwork – Dreams are doorways; keep a journal, follow the signs.

9. Nature Connection – Listening to the Earth is one of the oldest spiritual technologies.

10. Shamanic Journeying – Traveling beyond the ordinary with a drumbeat as your compass.

11. Sweat Lodges & Purification Ceremonies – Ancient, embodied rites of renewal.

12. Sacred Plant Allies (Non-hallucinogenic) – Plants like sage, cedar, or sweetgrass bring in clarity and protection without altering consciousness.

These tools are potent, time-honored, and available to anyone who approaches with respect and curiosity. You don’t need to ingest anything to experience the magic of the spirit world. The gateways are already within you.

Your Path is Sacred — Embrace It Fully

At the end of the day, your spiritual path is yours. It doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. You don’t need to follow the latest trend or say yes to something that doesn’t feel right in your body. There is no hierarchy in the spirit world — only authenticity, presence, and love.

If you feel called to explore plant medicine, may your journey be guided and held in sacred care. And if you don’t — or not right now — trust that you are exactly where you need to be. Spirit meets you right where you are.

However you walk your path — know this: you are not alone. The spirits, the ancestors, and the Earth herself walk with you. Your way is your own, and that is more than enough.

If ever you wish to talk, explore, or simply be witnessed on your journey, I am here. Whether it’s through a simple ritual, a shamanic journey, or a quiet conversation with the unseen, I am honoured to walk beside you, wherever the road may lead.

May your steps be guided, your heart be light, and your spirit feel free.

With love and deep respect,

Cinzia