In this insightful episode, Roland Torikian recounts his profound journey into Maya medicine, finding his spiritual calling in the heart of Mexico. Delving into the transformative power of community and ceremony, he explores how these ancient practices connect us to both the seen and unseen worlds.

Initiated into Maya Medicine under the guidance of Lauro de la Cruz during the tumultuous Zapatista uprising, he shares how immersing himself in the culture felt like a homecoming, as he served the local Mayan community.

Central to Maya healing practices are sweat lodges, which symbolise the womb of Mother Earth and serve as spaces for communal healing and transformation. Through the harmonisation of elemental forces and the acknowledgment of the visible and invisible realms, participants are invited to confront and transcend their inner imbalances.

Roland emphasises the importance of intention setting and integration after sweat lodge ceremonies, urging participants to release unwanted states and embrace healing qualities. By reflecting on personal needs and contributions to the wider community, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and collective healing.

Roland also addresses misconceptions surrounding sweat lodges, highlighting the importance of preparation and caution for individuals with certain medical conditions.

Ultimately, the sweat lodge becomes a microcosm of the world, stripping away inauthenticity and fostering humility, as participants reconnect with their bodies and breath, and listen within for guidance and healing.

Listeners are left with a profound understanding of the transformative power of Maya medicine, community, and ceremony in restoring balance and wellbeing.

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Maya Medicine, originating from the Mayan civilization over 2,500 years ago, represents an integrated system of natural healing deeply rooted in the understanding of the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world.

Central to this medical system is the harmonization and balance of the five elemental forces: earth, water, fire, wind, and space, as well as the recognition of the relationship between the visible and invisible realms.

Roland Torikian's journey as a Maya healer spans nearly three decades, encompassing both Mexico and the UK. His initiation into Maya Medicine occurred under the tutelage of Lauro de la Cruz in the Maya highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. Following his apprenticeship, Roland established a clinic in Dharamshala, North India, while delving into the study of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.

In his practice, Roland bridges the worlds of Maya and Tibetan medicine and healing, drawing parallels and connections between these ancient traditions. He emphasizes the utilization of ceremonies, meditation, and shamanic practices derived from the Kagyu lineage and Bon Buddhism. By integrating these modalities, Roland offers a holistic approach to healing that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of individuals.

Through his extensive experience and training, Roland embodies a unique perspective that embraces the wisdom of multiple cultural and spiritual traditions. His work not only serves to heal the ailments of the body but also to nourish the soul and facilitate deeper connections to the natural and spiritual worlds.

Follow Roland : @maya_medicine and at www.mayamedicine.co.uk

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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.

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