Do you feel called to experience your connection with the divine, deepen your faith in the sacredness of love and kindness? Join us at the Temple of Umi for this transformative self awareness experience where you can expand your spiritual and personal growth with communion with sacred plants and community. Join us today!
The Temple of Umi is a sacred spiritual community founded on the principles of divine connection, ancestral healing, and religious freedom. Our path is deeply rooted in the ceremonial use of ayahuasca, a sacred plant medicine that has been used by indigenous cultures for centuries as a gateway to inner transformation, healing, and connection with the Divine. We hold our ceremonies as acts of worship and spiritual communion, protected under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), which affirms our constitutional right to practice our faith without undue government interference.
We are not a wellness brand.
We are not a clinic.
We are not a recreational group.
We are a church.
Our practices are spiritual, sacramental, and intentionally protected under federal law. Ayahuasca is our sacrament—not a drug. Our use of it is centered in reverence, ritual, and sincere belief.

Each ceremony is a sacred rite. Participants engage in:
These are held in a container designed for deep inner work and connection with the Divine. Our facilitators are trained in both traditional and contemporary spiritual frameworks and operate under the guidance of ethical, legal, and spiritual protocols.
The Temple of Umi welcomes individuals who are called to this path of healing and transformation. While we understand that people may seek our ceremonies during times of personal suffering or mental struggle, the purpose of our work is fundamentally spiritual.
We do not offer medical treatment.
We offer a sacred container where healing is possible through communion with Spirit, through our sacrament, and through the integrity of our ceremonial practices.
In light of increasing government interference with plant-based religions, it is more important than ever to assert our constitutional rights. The Religious Freedom Restoration Act exists to protect minority faiths and unfamiliar practices from being criminalized or misrepresented. We operate within that legal framework and uphold it with diligence.
The Temple of Umi is a sanctuary for the soul—a place of refuge, healing, and awakening. We welcome those who feel called to the sacred path and are willing to engage with humility, sincerity, and respect.
If you are seeking entertainment, novelty, or casual exploration, this is not the place for you.
But if you are seeking divine truth, inner clarity, and sacred communion, you are welcome here.
We invite you to explore our community, learn about our principles, and understand the legal protections we operate under.
The path of plant medicine is not for everyone—but for those called to it with integrity, it can be life-changing.
Cassie WolfeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience at Temple of Umi was nothing short of beautiful. The volunteers are some of the most considerate, thoughtful, and genuinely compassionate people I’ve ever met. Their presence and care create a safe, supportive environment that allows you to go deep into your journey with trust and ease. And then there’s Mel, her wisdom radiates in such a grounded, graceful way. Mel has a gift for making people feel seen, safe, and held, and her guidance carries the kind of wisdom that only comes from walking this path with authenticity and love. Le'Dre BenderTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A truly profound experience of healing and gratitude. Mel and her staff are as compassionate and caring as they come. would recommend 10 stars if possible Alia WellsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The practitioners (Mel, Molly, and Mark) were amazing, loving, experienced, and very supportive. I couldn’t imagine my first experience with Aya being anywhere else honestly. I connected. I cried. I purged. And so much more and they were there every step of the way to answer any questions, hug me as I cried, and guide me with love. Can’t even fully describe how life changing this was. You truly have to experience it yourself and I hope one day you do Irina AbreuTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was the best experience of my life! I felt extremely safe, loved and cared! I’m so grateful to all who created this beautiful opportunity for us to heal! Ingo SchaerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended ! I had a fantastic experience ! Paul KayTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An incredible experience. Every detail is attended to (most that no one would notice, i.e. fresh flowers on the alter, individualized blessings on each person's medicine, the love and care in the preparation of the food, etc.), saturating the experience with love and reverence. The volunteers are caretakers of the highest caliber, attending to every need, usually before you even know you have a need. I have never felt so loved, accepted, respected or cared for. I witnessed so many people purging themselves of their unwanted baggage, pain, self-doubt, and trauma, and then had the amazing honor of hearing them share their journeys and insights the next morning. I left the three day experience with so much respect for the Yogi and her caring staff, feeling that I had been gifted a 48 hour spiritual massage, that four weeks later has not diminished. I am so grateful to the Yogi and her staff for taking me in, guiding me, and caring for me on my journey with the medicine. The Temple of Umi Aya is truly blessed because the Yogi and her volunteers have pure intention, love, compassion, acceptance, and respect for all who enter the Temple. It was truly a spiritual experience that I will treasure the rest of my life.
Sacred Plant Medicine refers to the use of certain plants with psychoactive properties in spiritual, healing, and ceremonial contexts. These plants are considered sacred due to their ability to facilitate profound experiences of connection, healing, and insight.
Unlike conventional medicine, which often targets specific physical symptoms, Sacred Plant Medicine works on physical, emotional, spiritual, and psychological levels. It is used not only for healing but also for personal growth, exploration of consciousness, and deepening one’s connection with the natural world.
Participation requires careful consideration of one’s physical and mental health, intentions, and readiness for potentially intense experiences. Individuals with certain health conditions or mental health issues may be advised against participating. A consultation with a knowledgeable practitioner is recommended.
Preparation involves physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects. Physically, adhering to a diet free from processed foods, alcohol, and drugs is often recommended. Emotionally and spiritually, practices such as meditation, journaling, and setting clear intentions can help prepare for the journey.
Experiences vary widely but can include profound emotional releases, visionary experiences, insights into personal or universal truths, and feelings of oneness with nature. The setting, facilitator’s guidance, and individual’s mindset play crucial roles in the experience.
The legality of Sacred Plant Medicine varies by country and region, with some places recognizing its use in religious or ceremonial contexts under specific guidelines. Always research and comply with local laws and regulations.
It can facilitate deep introspection, emotional release, and a reevaluation of personal beliefs and patterns. Many users report transformative experiences that lead to greater self-awareness, empathy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Learn more.
Risks can include challenging psychological experiences, emotional discomfort, and physical reactions like nausea. The presence of a trained facilitator can help manage these risks, but careful consideration and respect for the plant medicine are essential.
Integration involves reflecting on insights and lessons learned and applying them to your life. This may include changes in lifestyle, relationships, and personal goals. Support from community, therapists, or integration circles can be beneficial.
Researching organizations, practitioners, and communities with a focus on ethical practices, safety, and respect for tradition is essential. Websites, forums, and word-of-mouth recommendations can be good starting points, but always exercise due diligence and listen to your intuition.
Indeed, many more traditional plant remedies are employed in spiritual and therapeutic activities worldwide. Peyote, San Pedro cactus, and iboga are among common ayahuasca substitutes. However, before utilizing any plant medicine, it is critical to conduct an extensive study and to do so under the supervision of an expert facilitator.
Journey well! Learn about Aya Retreats.
Every year, our church and our non-profit organization join together to donate children’s books to local pre-k organizations and scholarships to graduating high school seniors. To date, our organizations have donated over 100,000 copies of books to parents of toddlers and local schools to promote early literacy in our community, and over 25000 copies of those books came from one of our founders and author of over 40 children’s books.
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