MEANING HORIZON OF YAGÉ DRINKING EXPERIENCE

Abstract

This paper presents the ceremonial experience of yagé drinking by a professor of the Psychology program, as a researcher, inside the indigenous reservations located in the municipality of Riosucio-Caldas-Colombia, belonging to the Embera Chami community, with the objective of carrying out an introspection exercise based on second-order observation. The research is qualitative, with a design that integrates ethnographic and phenomenological elements; the instruments used for data collection were the documentary review of scientific literature, field diary and self-recording cards. As a result, it was confirmed that for the yagé consumption, an arduous preparation process is circumscribed, firstly for the traditional doctor, who must go through difficult tests to strengthen his character and wisdom and be prepared for the moment of the ceremony and, secondly for the participants, as it implies a change in the diet: physical and mental fasting, as well as recognition of the intention with which it is connected at the moment of the medicinal intake, oriented towards a deep reflection on the meaning of existence and thus delve into one's own shadow.