Bridging western science with indigenous knowledge with Dr. Simon Ruffel

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Dr. Simon Ruffell — psychiatrist, researcher, and co-founder of Onaya Sciences. Simon is known for bridging Western psychiatry and traditional Amazonian plant medicine, completing a PhD on the therapeutic effects of ayahuasca and training in Shipibo curanderismo in Peru.

We touch upon topics of:

• (00:47) Simon’s journey from psychiatry to the Amazon
• (08:33) How ayahuasca heals: neuroplasticity, epigenetics & spirit work
• (13:18) Indigenous perspectives on balance and illness
• (16:11) Designing research with shamans & translating indigenous knowledge
• (22:11) Safety concerns in Western psychedelic use without shamans
• (31:05) 80% PTSD remission and other research findings
• (35:23) Synchronicities and destiny on the healing path
• (44:18) Ego traps: rushing to become a shaman
• (50:36) Rethinking psychedelic education and training models
• (58:52) The story and spirit of Agua Florida & evolving traditions

If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats go to www.lawayra.com.

Find more about Dr. Simon Ruffell and Onaya Sciences at www.onaya.science and on Instagram @drsimonruffell.