Kambo: Shifting Mindset, Releasing Pain, and Opening to New Perspectives
Many people are unfamiliar with Kambo, a traditional Amazonian medicine made from the secretion of the giant tree frog. My own introduction came after experiencing other plant medicines that left me with discomfort I couldn’t release. A facilitator suggested Kambo, and what began as curiosity has since become a powerful tool in reshaping my relationship with pain, emotions, and even the way I approach life.
Like many first-time clients, I felt nervous before my initial session — unsure of the process, the practitioner, and the unknowns of the experience. But what I quickly discovered was that Kambo invites us to face discomfort in a new way. Instead of resisting, I learned how to stay grounded, breathe through intense sensations, and come out the other side lighter, clearer, and more connected to myself.
For me, one of the most transformative lessons was learning to view physical and emotional pain not as something to fight, but as vibrant sensations moving through the body. This perspective shift carried over into other areas of my life. Later, when I underwent ankle replacement surgery, I used the same mindset I had cultivated with Kambo: reframing “excruciating pain” as proof that my body was alive and capable of healing. That shift made all the difference during rehabilitation — and it continues to influence how I meet challenges today.
Clients often ask what they can expect from Kambo. While each session is deeply personal, many report:
- Release of stored physical or emotional discomfort through purging, sweating, or other natural processes.
- Increased resilience when facing life’s challenges, as you learn to sit with discomfort and discover its lessons.
- A sense of lightness and clarity afterward, often described as an “afterglow” — a renewed connection to body, mind, and spirit.
- New perspectives on pain and emotions, shifting from fear and resistance to awareness and acceptance.
For me, Kambo has been both humbling and empowering. It has taught me that discomfort can be a teacher, that emotions are not enemies but expressions, and that pain does not have to define us.
If you’re curious about Kambo, know that it’s not just a detox for the body — it can also be a reset for the mind and spirit. With the right guidance and integration, it may help you release what no longer serves you and step into a more open, resilient version of yourself.
Disclaimer: The experiences described in this blog are my own personal lived experiences. Each session and lessons are unique to the individual partaking and will vary. Thank you for taking the time to read about mine.
In gratitude, Christina
