Retreat Preparation: Beginner Checklist [2026]

Getting Ready for Your First Psychedelic Retreat

Getting ready for a psychedelic retreat is a big deal. The more you prepare, the more you'll get out of it. Here's how to get ready.

Get Your Mind Right

Think About Your "Why"

• Ask yourself: Why am I doing this?
• What do I want to learn or change?
• Be open to surprises. You might learn something you didn't expect.
• Write down your thoughts.

💡 Want a deeper guide? Our Psychedelic Preparation Course walks you through the entire preparation process step by step — from intention setting to integration.

Self-Assessment

• Be honest on your eligibility forms.
• Tell us about your mental health history.
• Talk to us about any worries you have.
• Think about talking to a coach who can help before you come.
• Try meditating for a few minutes each day.

Get Your Body Ready

What to Eat

• We'll give you a list of foods to eat and avoid.
• Cut back on caffeine and sugar.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Follow the diet we give you.

Medications are a Big Deal

Important: Tell us about all medications you're taking.

• Some medications, like SSRIs, can be dangerous with psychedelics.
• You might need to stop taking some medications before you come.
• Always talk to your doctor before stopping any medication.
• Be honest with us about everything you take.

Take Care of Your Body

• Get enough sleep.
• Get some exercise.
• Take care of any health issues.

The Practical Stuff

What to Pack

• Comfy clothes.
• A journal and pen.
• Things that make you feel comfortable.
• Any medications you need.
• An open mind.

What to Leave at Home

• Your work.
• Your phone and other electronics.
• Any expectations about what will happen.
• Any judgment of yourself or others.

Your Support Team

Before You Go

• Tell a trusted friend or family member where you're going.
• Take care of things at home, like work and childcare.
• Look for resources to help you after the retreat.

During the Retreat

• Trust the people leading the retreat.
• Be honest about what you're feeling.
• Ask for help when you need it.
• Be respectful of others.

After the Retreat

• Make time to process your experience.
• Schedule any follow-up appointments.
• Stay in touch with people you met.
• Keep up with any new practices you learned.

What to Expect (and What Not to)

A Retreat Is:

• A chance to learn and grow.
• A safe space to explore your mind.
• A time for deep exploration and growth.
• The start of a new journey.

A Retreat Is Not:

• A quick fix for all your problems.
• A guarantee that you'll have a certain experience.
• A way to escape from your life.
• The end of your journey.

Feeling Nervous? That's Normal.

Scared of the Unknown?

• That's a good sign. It means you respect the experience.
• We'll help you work through your fears.

Worried About Losing Control?

• Letting go is part of the experience.
• Our team is here to keep you safe.
• "Letting go" can be very freeing.

Worried You'll "Do It Wrong"?

• There's no right or wrong way to have an experience.
• Your journey is your own.
• We're here to support you, no matter what.

The Week Before

Mind and Heart

• Try to de-stress.
• Meditate every day.
• Think about your "why."
• Get plenty of rest.

➡️ Need structured guidance for your preparation? Check out our Preparation Course.

Body

• Follow the diet we gave you.
• Get extra sleep.
• Don't drink alcohol or use drugs.
• Drink lots of water.

Practical

• Double-check your travel plans.
• Pack your bags.
• Make sure you have support for after the retreat.

The Big Day

• Come rested and ready.
• Be yourself.
• Trust the process.
• Be open to whatever comes up.

Preparation isn't about controlling the experience, but creating the conditions where profound change can occur. - Yasmin, Limitless Retreats Team

Related Articles:

• LSD Retreat Germany Guide – Comprehensive guide for retreats in Germany
• Set and Setting in Retreats – The importance of proper preparation
• Integration – After the retreat: integrating insights
• Course: Psychedelic Preparation – 9 modules for your optimal retreat preparation
• Retreat Programs – Our structured programs with preparation and aftercare
• FAQ – Common questions about preparation

Psychedelic retreats do not replace medical or psychotherapeutic treatment. The information presented here is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.