053: From Near-Death to New Beginnings: Plant Medicine and Spiritual Healing in Peru with Roberto Laurens

In today's fast-paced world, rest is often mistaken for simply lying on a beach with a cocktail in hand. But what if rest could mean something deeper, a true rejuvenation that touches the soul, leaving you transformed? This question finds its answer in the story of Roberto Laurens, owner of Pacha Munay Retreat Center in Peru.Roberto Laurens’ journey is anything but conventional. Born in Colombia, he moved to Massachusetts and embarked on a life filled with spiritual exploration and entrepreneurship. Following a significant health crisis and profound spiritual experiences, Roberto found himself at a crossroads that led him to the heart of Peru.It was a series of synchronicities—the calling of Peru that Roberto could not ignore. Post-surgery, seeking healing, he found himself in the jungles of the Amazon managing an ayahuasca retreat center. Here, Roberto learned invaluable lessons on the benefits and pitfalls of plant medicine, highlighting the importance of integration over the mere experience of spiritual highs.In a world obsessed with bucket lists and itineraries, Roberto emphasizes the balance between exploration and inner work. The retreat nurtures this balance, encouraging guests to view travel not as an escape but as a profound opportunity for personal development.When you next plan your travels, consider the potential for transformation that lies beyond sightseeing. Embrace the opportunity to rest, rejuvenate, and return home with a newfound clarity and sense of purpose. We talk about:00:00 Intro02:46 Roberto Laurens’ Healing Journey05:12 Two Truths and a Lie: Travel Edition06:04 The Island of the Moon Adventure11:37 Understanding Plant Medicine13:17 From Atheism to Spiritual Awakening22:50 A Near-Death Experience and Moving to Peru27:27 Running an Ayahuasca Retreat Center34:21 Passion for Food and Hospitality35:40 Creating a Healing Space in the Sacred Valley36:33 Entrepreneurial Journey in Peru40:58 Detox and Clarity in Thailand43:42 Pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago46:05 Founding a Retreat Center in Peru53:07 Personal Growth and Spiritual PracticesConnect with Robertowww.instagram.com/pachamunay.wellness www.pachamunaywellness.comConnect with meFollow the Podcast on IG: http://www.instagram.com/transformwithtravel   Follow Kelly Tolliday on IG: http://www.instagram.com/kelly.tolliday Transform With Travel Website: https://www.transformwithtravel.co Thanks To Our Sponsors:Anatomie: Head to Anatomie’s Website for more information. Use Code RISING20 for 20% off your first annual subscription. Follow Anatomie on Instagram at @anatomiestyle Website: https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/anatomie The Mindful Traveler: How To Navigate Travel Stress with a Smile: Use Code LAUNCH10 for 10% off. Download the E-Book Today Here - https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/mindfultravelerebook