Hello, I’m Sapha, and I’d like to share my personal journey with you—a journey marked by profound transformation and deep personal growth. My path has taken me from struggling with problematic substance use and major depressive disorder to finding purpose in supporting others through their own recovery. This journey has been shaped by intense experiences in the Amazon, transformative therapies, and a commitment to holistic health.
Three Years Immersed in the Amazon
My story took a significant turn when I spent three years in the Amazon, dedicating myself to the rich traditions of master plant dietas. This period included two years of working closely with master plants, followed by a stringent one-year isolation dieta. The isolation dieta was particularly challenging—it required me to withdraw from external distractions and focus inward. This rigorous practice was not just about physical endurance but also about deep spiritual and emotional exploration. It provided me with the opportunity to confront my deepest fears, gain clarity, and realign my purpose.
Overcoming Major Depressive Disorder
Throughout my journey, I faced significant struggles with major depressive disorder. It was a time of profound darkness and difficulty. However, my engagement with ayahuasca and ketamine-assisted therapy proved to be pivotal. Over my nine years of abstinence from alcohol, cocaine, opiates, and prescription pills, these therapies offered me invaluable insights and relief. They played a crucial role in helping me navigate my depression, providing new perspectives and fostering emotional resilience. These experiences were instrumental in my healing process and in reshaping my life.
Weekly Somatic Experiencing with Markus
A cornerstone of my ongoing recovery and personal growth has been my weekly somatic experiencing sessions with my mentor, Markus. These sessions have been essential in helping me understand and release deeply held trauma and stress. Markus’s guidance has allowed me to stay grounded and connected to my body’s signals, reinforcing the importance of integrating body awareness into my healing journey.
Empowering Others on Their Recovery Journey
My own experiences have ignited a deep passion for supporting others on their recovery journey. I’m driven to assist both men and women as they navigate their paths to healing. My goal is to provide practical support, intervention, and therapeutic guidance that empower individuals to overcome their struggles and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life. It’s incredibly rewarding to see others find their own strength and transformation.
Embracing Physical Transformation and Holistic Health
Post-dieta, my physical transformation has been remarkable. Embracing a holistic approach to health, I’ve incorporated a hybrid fitness routine that includes weight training, resistance exercises, running, boxing, and calisthenics. This balanced approach has significantly improved my physical health and overall well-being. I’ve come to realize that a diverse fitness regimen, combined with holistic nutrition, is crucial for sustaining recovery and achieving optimal health. It’s been an empowering experience to see how integrating various forms of exercise and nutrition has positively impacted my life.
A New Path: From Trades to Human Service Work
Before my journey into human service work, I spent most of my life working in the trades and oil and gas industry. While this work provided me with skills and experience, it wasn’t where I found my true purpose. I discovered a deeper sense of fulfillment and meaning in supporting others through their recovery journeys. This shift has allowed me to channel my experiences and passion into helping people transform their lives.
Looking Ahead: Center and Memoir
Looking to the future, I’m excited about my long-term goal of opening a recovery center. This center will embody the holistic principles I’ve learned and offer a supportive environment for individuals seeking transformation. Additionally, I’m working on my memoir, *Drug War Refugee*, which will chronicle my journey and provide insights into the recovery process. I hope it will serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for others.
My Work as a Family Interventionist
As a family interventionist and therapeutic support specialist, I am committed to helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of recovery from problematic substance use. I view problematic substance use as a spectrum disorder rather than through the disease model of addiction. My role involves offering compassionate understanding, practical support, and guidance to help people overcome their challenges and achieve lasting change.
In Conclusion
My journey has been one of deep personal transformation and growth. From my time in the Amazon to overcoming depression and embracing holistic health, every experience has brought me closer to my purpose. I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and for the opportunity to support others in their recovery journeys. My commitment is to continue evolving, learning, and empowering others as we all navigate our paths to healing and fulfillment.
