Finding Freedom Through Sacred Healing
My Journey with Ayahuasca and Shaman Nelson

The First Retreat
When I met Nelson, I was skeptical but desperate. I had struggled for years with PTSD, anxiety, stress, and the lingering effects of a difficult childhood compounded by a 23-year military career. Seventeen of those years were spent in conflict zones, working a high-demand MOS (military occupational specialty) that placed me in direct contact with danger and the enemy. The accumulation of these experiences had created a mental and physical state I could no longer manage.
The Founding of NOI RAO Ancestral Medicinal Center
Motivated by the need for a dedicated space to uphold his values, Nelson established the NOI RAO Ancestral Medicinal Center. This center embodies his philosophy:

Focus on Healing
Prioritizing the positive transformation of visitors over commercial success.

Holistic Care
Offering an integrative approach that combines Shipibo-Konibo traditions with modern therapeutic insights.

Cultural Legacy
Providing a platform for preserving and celebrating the Shipibo-Konibo heritage, ensuring its relevance for future generations.

Sustainability and Respect
Balancing the use of Amazonian resources with a commitment to environmental stewardship.
When Nothing Else Brought Relief
Before meeting Nelson, I had tried everything: meditation, counseling, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, sleep aids, and even TMS therapy. While some treatments provided temporary relief, nothing stuck. I felt like I was spiraling deeper into hopelessness.
- Struggle
- Desperation
Healing Beyond the Expected
The most profound change was how my PTSD, anxiety, and stress were brought under control without the need for the powerful medications I had relied on for over 15 years. It was as though the weight I had carried for decades had been lifted.
The Second Retreat
This second retreat, lasting seven days, was even more transformative. The treatment picked up exactly where it had left off. Through four additional ayahuasca ceremonies, I experienced deeper healing and a greater sense of control over my life. The effects lasted for nine months, and I noticed a significant improvement in my mental and emotional stability.
The Third Retreat
I am now planning my third visit to Nelson this coming March or April. Although family commitments only allow me to spend 7–10 days at a time in the jungle, I know the impact of even a short retreat will be profound.
Reflections on My Past
Before meeting Nelson, I felt trapped in a cycle of temporary fixes. Medications numbed the pain but never addressed its root. Ayahuasca, guided by Nelson’s expertise, did what no other treatment could: it unraveled the chaos within me and allowed me to rebuild from the ground up.
Why Nelson and His Methods Work
Nelson creates a safe, nurturing environment that fosters trust and openness. His ceremonies are deeply personal, tailored to each individual’s needs, and grounded in centuries of Shipibo-Konibo tradition.


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A New Chapter
If you are considering a similar path, my only advice is this: take the leap of faith. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are life-changing. Nelson’s work has given me a second chance at life, and for that, I will always be grateful.