Core Retreat

A 3-Day Psilocybin Retreat by the Essence Institute

The Core Retreat is the foundational retreat of the Essence Institute.

It is a three-day psilocybin retreat, held in the Netherlands, in a safe and legal setting.

This retreat offers a clear and carefully guided introduction to working with psilocybin.

Nothing needs to be achieved. The experience unfolds as it does.

FOR WHOM

The Core Retreat is open to people who feel drawn to explore psilocybin in a guided and respectful way.

No prior experience is required.

A careful intake is part of the process.

The Retreat

The Core Retreat consists of three days in a small group, guided by an experienced team.

Preparation, ceremony, and time afterwards are all part of the process.

There is structure, and there is space.

Silence, rest, and simple practices support the experience.

Psilocybin truffles are used within a legal framework, with attention to safety and care throughout the retreat.

The three Days

DAY1

Arrival

The first day is for arriving, settling in, and preparing. We take time to slow down and become familiar with the setting and with each other.

DAY2

Ceremony

On the second day, the psilocybin ceremony takes place. The session is held in a calm environment, with facilitators present throughout.

DAY3

Integration & Closing

The final day allows space to reflect and to gently return. The retreat is closed together.

Why Participants Choose the Core Retreat

Participants have shared that the Core Retreat supported them in:

  • Emotional release
    Creating space to feel what has been held, without forcing catharsis or resolution.
  • Greater self-understanding
    Seeing inner patterns, beliefs, and responses more clearly, with more gentleness toward themselves.
  • Deeper sense of connection
    Feeling more present with themselves, with others, and with life as it is.
  • Breaking habits
    Noticing habitual ways of thinking and reacting, and creating room for something new.
  • Access to intuition and creativity
    Experiencing more clarity around direction, expression, and what feels meaningful.
  • Meeting the Shadow with care
    Developing a greater capacity to face aspects of oneself that were previously avoided or unseen.
  • Moving through transition
    Holding space for change, or uncertainty with steadiness and support.

Testimonials

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Essence Institute

The Essence Institute offers psilocybin retreats with attention, simplicity, and responsibility.

The Core Retreat forms the basis of the Essence retreat program.

Other retreats build upon the shared experience that begins here. 

Frequently Asked Questions About The Core Retreat

Is this retreat suitable if I have no prior experience with psilocybin?

Yes. The Core Retreat is designed as a carefully guided first introduction to working with psilocybin. No prior experience is required. A personal intake and screening are always part of the process to assess whether participation is appropriate and safe at this time.

How is the Core Retreat different from other psilocybin retreats?

The focus is not on peak experiences or rapid transformation. The Core Retreat emphasizes structure, calm, and careful guidance, with equal attention to preparation, ceremony, and integration.

How is safety ensured during the retreat?

Safety is central to the approach of the Essence Institute. This includes a thorough intake process, small group sizes, experienced facilitators, and a legal, supportive setting. Both mental and physical well-being are taken into account.

What happens after the ceremony?

The experience does not end with the ceremony day. The final day is dedicated to reflection, integration, and gentle closure. In addition, follow-up and integration support help insights settle gradually into everyday life.

Who is this retreat not intended for?

This retreat is not suitable for those seeking a quick fix or guaranteed outcomes. Participation may also not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical or psychological conditions. These considerations are always discussed during the intake process.