I first heard about vision quest, a rite of passage in some Native American cultures, from actor-comedian Jim Carrey of all people. He noted in an interview with Howard Stern about communing with nature for four or five days to think through whatever he was wrestling with in his life at that time. It may not be all that surprising considering that he’s known in psychedelic circles as someone who does a lot of work on himself. I thought it was fascinating that he went into the desert with no food or water and came out completely uplifted and reenergized.
So, my interest in this topic was further piqued when watching a reality TV show on Netflix called Alone, which is like Survivor on steroids. Contestants are secluded in remote locations with just a handful of tools, and the survivalist who stays out there the longest wins $500,000. Watching their drama unfold, I developed a deeper appreciation for how the human mind works and people commune with nature. The common thread of what they endure is that they do it alone (as reflected in the title).
This show has given me a better understanding of the vision quest rite of passage that many indigenous cultures have practiced for thousands of years, sometimes under the influence of hallucinogenic substances like ayahuasca. One of the most impactful things was seeing how being alone with contemplation was so profound and life-changing even for those who did not win the grand prize. A vision quest fits nicely into the self-improvement toolbox alongside microdosing, meditation, nutrition, exercise, regular mental health checks and spiritual rituals.
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