OUR TEAM
MEET THE TEAM
Our team is a diverse group of passionate individuals, including dedicated organizers, skilled facilitators, experienced Amazonian healers, and medical staff. Each member brings unique skills, wisdom, and a deep commitment to guiding you through your journey of transformation and healing with care and respect.
Organizers/Facilitators
Yasha
Dieta: Marusa, Niwe Rao
From a young age, Yasha was captivated by metaphysics, often choosing to daydream about the nature of reality rather than focus on traditional studies. Although Yasha pursued a degree in business administration, there was always a sense of something missing, a lack of clarity about the true path in life. In 2017, Yasha decided to try Ayahuasca, initially thinking it might be similar to mushrooms, perhaps just stronger. Little did Yasha know that this experience would be life-changing.
Following a period of travel in Nepal and India, Yasha found a deep calling to the Amazon rainforest, seeking a more profound understanding of Ayahuasca. The more Yasha connected with the medicine, the more it revealed about the self. For Yasha, Ayahuasca is not just a tool for healing but a crucial element in spiritual development. When asked what Ayahuasca has brought to life, Yasha often reflects on a poem by Rumi:
“You have no idea how hard I've looked for a gift to bring You. Nothing seemed right. What's the point of bringing gold to the gold mine, or water to the ocean. Everything I came up with was like taking spices to the Orient. It's no good giving my heart and my soul because you already have these. So I've brought you a mirror. Look at yourself and remember me.” ― Rumi
Initiated by Peruvian healers into the tradition of Shipibo Curanderismo, Yasha is a dedicated student of plant medicine and Shakta Tantra (Sri Kula). Yasha is also training with ICEERS and is currently working towards certification in integration and harm reduction. Through this journey, Yasha hopes to be the friend you need on your path with medicine, and perhaps, in life.
Dieta: Marusa, Niwe Rao
From a young age, Yasha was captivated by metaphysics, often choosing to daydream about the nature of reality rather than focus on traditional studies. Although Yasha pursued a degree in business administration, there was always a sense of something missing, a lack of clarity about the true path in life. In 2017, Yasha decided to try Ayahuasca, initially thinking it might be similar to mushrooms, perhaps just stronger. Little did Yasha know that this experience would be life-changing.
Following a period of travel in Nepal and India, Yasha found a deep calling to the Amazon rainforest, seeking a more profound understanding of Ayahuasca. The more Yasha connected with the medicine, the more it revealed about the self. For Yasha, Ayahuasca is not just a tool for healing but a crucial element in spiritual development. When asked what Ayahuasca has brought to life, Yasha often reflects on a poem by Rumi:
“You have no idea how hard I've looked for a gift to bring You. Nothing seemed right. What's the point of bringing gold to the gold mine, or water to the ocean. Everything I came up with was like taking spices to the Orient. It's no good giving my heart and my soul because you already have these. So I've brought you a mirror. Look at yourself and remember me.” ― Rumi
Initiated by Peruvian healers into the tradition of Shipibo Curanderismo, Yasha is a dedicated student of plant medicine and Shakta Tantra (Sri Kula). Yasha is also training with ICEERS and is currently working towards certification in integration and harm reduction. Through this journey, Yasha hopes to be the friend you need on your path with medicine, and perhaps, in life.
Ania Halama
Dieta: Chullachaqui, Niwe Rao
Ania Halama is a world-renowned spiritual mentor, transformational leader, and entrepreneur whose life journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and manifestation. After breaking free from an unfulfilling corporate career, she embarked on a transformative global odyssey that opened her to ancient healing modalities and revealed her true life’s purpose.
Ania draws from a multitude of certifications—including EFT Practitioner, Breathwork Facilitator, Ho’oponopono Master, and Akashic Records Reader—to empower thousands of heart-centered individuals and professionals to align with their highest potential. Her keen intuitive abilities and mastery of the Law of Attraction allow her to guide clients in attracting health, love, wealth, and spiritual abundance.
Initiated by Peruvian healers into the tradition of Shipibo Curanderismo, Ania is a dedicated student of life who has been working with different plant medicines for seven years. She has undertaken the Chullachaqui, and Niwe Rao dietas, deepening her connection to these sacred practices.
Recognized as a “Top Millennial Powerhouse” by Entrepreneur Magazine and “Top 10 Entrepreneur to Follow” by US Reporter, Ania’s visionary approach has garnered widespread acclaim. She is a two-time bestselling author of Rebel’s Guide to Spirituality and Women Gone Wild: The Wealth Edition, and her insights have been featured across major media outlets.
With an intuitive artist’s eye for beauty and a passion for uplifting others, Ania fuses her business savvy and metaphysical gifts. Her mission is to impact lives by empowering people to manifest their deepest desires through radical self-love and spiritual awakening. Ania works with forward-thinking individuals to foster a life of mindfulness, empowerment, and fulfillment. She is dedicated to helping people unlock their full potential, leading to increased happiness, motivation, productivity, innovation, and overall abundance.
Dieta: Chullachaqui, Niwe Rao
Ania Halama is a world-renowned spiritual mentor, transformational leader, and entrepreneur whose life journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and manifestation. After breaking free from an unfulfilling corporate career, she embarked on a transformative global odyssey that opened her to ancient healing modalities and revealed her true life’s purpose.
Ania draws from a multitude of certifications—including EFT Practitioner, Breathwork Facilitator, Ho’oponopono Master, and Akashic Records Reader—to empower thousands of heart-centered individuals and professionals to align with their highest potential. Her keen intuitive abilities and mastery of the Law of Attraction allow her to guide clients in attracting health, love, wealth, and spiritual abundance.
Initiated by Peruvian healers into the tradition of Shipibo Curanderismo, Ania is a dedicated student of life who has been working with different plant medicines for seven years. She has undertaken the Chullachaqui, and Niwe Rao dietas, deepening her connection to these sacred practices.
Recognized as a “Top Millennial Powerhouse” by Entrepreneur Magazine and “Top 10 Entrepreneur to Follow” by US Reporter, Ania’s visionary approach has garnered widespread acclaim. She is a two-time bestselling author of Rebel’s Guide to Spirituality and Women Gone Wild: The Wealth Edition, and her insights have been featured across major media outlets.
With an intuitive artist’s eye for beauty and a passion for uplifting others, Ania fuses her business savvy and metaphysical gifts. Her mission is to impact lives by empowering people to manifest their deepest desires through radical self-love and spiritual awakening. Ania works with forward-thinking individuals to foster a life of mindfulness, empowerment, and fulfillment. She is dedicated to helping people unlock their full potential, leading to increased happiness, motivation, productivity, innovation, and overall abundance.
Healers
Maestro Segundo Pangoza Chani
Tribe: Shipibo
Maestro Segundo Pangoza Chani is a revered Shipibo healer with over 40 years of experience in plant medicine. As the lead shaman, he brings an authentic connection to the ancient healing tradition of Ayahuasca, offering a safe and nurturing environment for those seeking transformation. His decades of knowledge and expertise create a space where participants can fully surrender and immerse themselves in the profound wisdom of this sacred practice.
Why Do We Work with Maestro Segundo Pangoza Chani?
Yasha first encountered Maestro Segundo in Pucallpa, Peru, after completing a dieta in Iquitos. Seeking to expand beyond the teachings of previous mentors, Yasha was drawn to Pucallpa, known for its rich Shipibo culture. There, Yasha was searching for a maestro with deep knowledge of master plant dieta, aware of the challenges and risks involved in such a pursuit in Peru.
When Yasha met Maestro Segundo, he was immediately struck by the maestro's patient and kind demeanor, even in the face of a language barrier. Despite limited Spanish, Yasha communicated with Maestro Segundo through Google Translate, and the maestro shared stories of his experiences in Spain and Germany. Their connection deepened as they discussed the Shipibo language and dieta, with Maestro Segundo recalling his time spent near Iquitos.
Maestro Segundo's warmth and sincerity left a lasting impression. Inviting Yasha to join a ceremony, he welcomed him like family, and his Icaros resonated with a comforting, grandfatherly presence. This deep trust and genuine connection led Yasha to choose Maestro Segundo as a key healer for Maha Devi retreats, confident in his ability to guide participants through their Ayahuasca journeys with wisdom and compassion.
Tribe: Shipibo
Maestro Segundo Pangoza Chani is a revered Shipibo healer with over 40 years of experience in plant medicine. As the lead shaman, he brings an authentic connection to the ancient healing tradition of Ayahuasca, offering a safe and nurturing environment for those seeking transformation. His decades of knowledge and expertise create a space where participants can fully surrender and immerse themselves in the profound wisdom of this sacred practice.
Why Do We Work with Maestro Segundo Pangoza Chani?
Yasha first encountered Maestro Segundo in Pucallpa, Peru, after completing a dieta in Iquitos. Seeking to expand beyond the teachings of previous mentors, Yasha was drawn to Pucallpa, known for its rich Shipibo culture. There, Yasha was searching for a maestro with deep knowledge of master plant dieta, aware of the challenges and risks involved in such a pursuit in Peru.
When Yasha met Maestro Segundo, he was immediately struck by the maestro's patient and kind demeanor, even in the face of a language barrier. Despite limited Spanish, Yasha communicated with Maestro Segundo through Google Translate, and the maestro shared stories of his experiences in Spain and Germany. Their connection deepened as they discussed the Shipibo language and dieta, with Maestro Segundo recalling his time spent near Iquitos.
Maestro Segundo's warmth and sincerity left a lasting impression. Inviting Yasha to join a ceremony, he welcomed him like family, and his Icaros resonated with a comforting, grandfatherly presence. This deep trust and genuine connection led Yasha to choose Maestro Segundo as a key healer for Maha Devi retreats, confident in his ability to guide participants through their Ayahuasca journeys with wisdom and compassion.
Taita Miguel
Tribe: Camsa
Primary Medicine: Yagé (Ayahuasca)
Taita Miguel, a respected shamanic healer, belongs to an unbroken 12-generation lineage within the Camsa tribe. Alongside his wife, Beronica, he possesses deep knowledge of plant-based medicine, with a particular focus on Ayahuasca, also known as Yagé. Together, they utilize this sacred medicine to diagnose and heal a variety of conditions, offering transformative experiences through their unique ceremonies.
Their ceremonies take place on sacred Indigenous land within the Camënsá Biyá pueblo, a jungle sanctuary enriched by waterfalls, rivers, birds, and lush nature. The serene environment, infused with special energy, amplifies the healing process. Taita Miguel and Beronica’s openness in sharing their spiritual knowledge distinguishes them from other healers, creating a truly profound experience for those who attend their ceremonies.
Why do we work with Taita Miguel?
Yasha personally selected Taita Miguel from among seven different Taitas considered for Maha Devi retreats. During a journey through Putumayo, Yasha sought a healer who was not only skilled in medicine but also deeply connected with people. While many Taitas possessed strong medicine, their approach lacked warmth. Observing Taita Miguel, Yasha noticed his patience and humanity, particularly during a challenging ceremony for one participant. Taita Miguel listened attentively, offered wise counsel, and prayed with the participant, who expressed deep gratitude the following morning. This compassion and genuine care resonated with Yasha, solidifying the decision to begin a partnership with Taita Miguel and his family.
Tribe: Camsa
Primary Medicine: Yagé (Ayahuasca)
Taita Miguel, a respected shamanic healer, belongs to an unbroken 12-generation lineage within the Camsa tribe. Alongside his wife, Beronica, he possesses deep knowledge of plant-based medicine, with a particular focus on Ayahuasca, also known as Yagé. Together, they utilize this sacred medicine to diagnose and heal a variety of conditions, offering transformative experiences through their unique ceremonies.
Their ceremonies take place on sacred Indigenous land within the Camënsá Biyá pueblo, a jungle sanctuary enriched by waterfalls, rivers, birds, and lush nature. The serene environment, infused with special energy, amplifies the healing process. Taita Miguel and Beronica’s openness in sharing their spiritual knowledge distinguishes them from other healers, creating a truly profound experience for those who attend their ceremonies.
Why do we work with Taita Miguel?
Yasha personally selected Taita Miguel from among seven different Taitas considered for Maha Devi retreats. During a journey through Putumayo, Yasha sought a healer who was not only skilled in medicine but also deeply connected with people. While many Taitas possessed strong medicine, their approach lacked warmth. Observing Taita Miguel, Yasha noticed his patience and humanity, particularly during a challenging ceremony for one participant. Taita Miguel listened attentively, offered wise counsel, and prayed with the participant, who expressed deep gratitude the following morning. This compassion and genuine care resonated with Yasha, solidifying the decision to begin a partnership with Taita Miguel and his family.
JOIN US
We invite you to explore the profound potential of ayahuasca and embark on a journey of self-discovery with us. At Maha Devi Ayahuasca Retreats, you will find a community dedicated to your transformation and a space where your spiritual journey can unfold with grace and support.
Wellness & Support Team
Mijal Schmidt Muñoz
Role: Clinical Psychologist, Musicologist, Complex trauma specialist, Clinical therapeutic accompaniment
Mijal is our go-to psychologist for difficult cases, offering deep expertise in working with trauma and therapeutic integration. She also leads our group sessions on therapeutic integration, helping clients navigate their healing journeys with a focus on amplifying consciousness and changing perspectives.
Role: Clinical Psychologist, Musicologist, Complex trauma specialist, Clinical therapeutic accompaniment
Mijal is our go-to psychologist for difficult cases, offering deep expertise in working with trauma and therapeutic integration. She also leads our group sessions on therapeutic integration, helping clients navigate their healing journeys with a focus on amplifying consciousness and changing perspectives.
Guy Sapirstein
Role: Psychologist, PhD
Guy is our expert therapist for complex situations, bringing extensive experience in working with stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges. He specializes in guiding individuals and families through difficult life transitions and offers unique expertise in psychedelic integration. Guy also leads our group sessions on resilience and practical coping strategies, helping clients find effective, lasting solutions to their challenges.
Role: Psychologist, PhD
Guy is our expert therapist for complex situations, bringing extensive experience in working with stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges. He specializes in guiding individuals and families through difficult life transitions and offers unique expertise in psychedelic integration. Guy also leads our group sessions on resilience and practical coping strategies, helping clients find effective, lasting solutions to their challenges.
Sebastian Sanchez Ramires
Role: Registered Nurse
Sebastian is our dedicated medical professional responsible for ensuring that each participant is physically prepared for the ayahuasca ceremonies. He conducts thorough physical check-ups, including monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure, every night before ceremony. Sebastian's attentive care helps to create a safe environment, allowing participants to focus on their healing journey.
Role: Registered Nurse
Sebastian is our dedicated medical professional responsible for ensuring that each participant is physically prepared for the ayahuasca ceremonies. He conducts thorough physical check-ups, including monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure, every night before ceremony. Sebastian's attentive care helps to create a safe environment, allowing participants to focus on their healing journey.
Jose David Guarin
Role: Guardian of the Grounds
Jose is our devoted guardian of the grounds and a specialist in psychedelic-assisted therapy with over 10 years of experience. He ensures the retreat remains a safe and serene sanctuary. His presence is a constant reminder of the deep connection between the earth and the spiritual work being done, providing a stable and nurturing foundation for the entire retreat experience.
Role: Guardian of the Grounds
Jose is our devoted guardian of the grounds and a specialist in psychedelic-assisted therapy with over 10 years of experience. He ensures the retreat remains a safe and serene sanctuary. His presence is a constant reminder of the deep connection between the earth and the spiritual work being done, providing a stable and nurturing foundation for the entire retreat experience.
Ram Rattan Singh Khalsa
Role: Kundalini Yoga Master
Ram Rattan Singh Khalsa is our skilled yoga instructor, offering a variety of yoga sessions multiple times per week to support participants on their journey. His classes are thoughtfully designed to complement the retreat experience, helping to balance the body, mind, and spirit.
Role: Kundalini Yoga Master
Ram Rattan Singh Khalsa is our skilled yoga instructor, offering a variety of yoga sessions multiple times per week to support participants on their journey. His classes are thoughtfully designed to complement the retreat experience, helping to balance the body, mind, and spirit.
Thomás Guarin
Role: Musician
Role: Musician
Tomás is a holistic therapist and skilled musician who integrates music and sound as powerful tools for emotional and spiritual healing. He blends ancestral wisdom with modern science, creating a transformative atmosphere in ceremonies through carefully crafted medicine music. Despite his young age, Tomás has extensive experience with psychedelics and a strong background in holistic psychology and neuroscience.
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Testimonials
Hear from those who have experienced the profound healing and personal growth at Maha Devi Ayahuasca Retreats, where the wisdom of ancient traditions meets modern support.
Ayahuasca felt like a total recalibration in my body, a sense of completeness, with some words of encouragement from the facilitators, I found the courage to finish the retreat, and I am so glad I did. I feel complete.
Jacquelin from Austin
This ayahuasca retreat really is a spiritual soul retreat. And my soul was craving connection. I met so many amazing people, and I'm walking away with a new tribe of friends.
That's what I was seeking.
John from US
This was my first time, the feeling I got was infinite love and gratitude. My second ceremony I thought it would be the same, but there are no expectations in ayahuasca. It was a tough conversation with myself, I finally confronted my fears and anxieties.