In this episode of Surviving the City, we ask: how did a New Yorker and fifth-generation Curandera go on a mission to share the power of plant medicine, then go on to open up a modern-day apothecary, botánica, and community space? Our guest is Lynsey Ayala, a spiritual herbalist, artist, and the owner of BreadxButta, a Brooklyn-based brand fusing wellness, art, and Sacred Earth Medicine education. As you'll come to understand from today's conversation, Lynsey's work is deeply rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage and her upbringing in the Bronx. Having found her calling in decolonizing Sacred Earth Medicines, she uses a variety of modalities to ignite healing, including psychedelics and other medicinal plants. Listen in as we break down what it means to Lynsey to decolonize this space, how she stays true to her mission to build and educate her community, while also facilitating personal growth, and how you can begin to cultivate a personal relationship with plant medicine. Join us today as we learn about what it means to be a 'healer' using the power of community (with a side of plant medicine)! Topics discussed in this episode: What inspired Lynsey's contemporary apothecary and community space Her personal connection with Sacred Earth Medicines Building a community around your art and business Translating word of mouth into a digital following Demystifying cannabis, one mom at a time! Maintaining community while also facilitating personal growth Using astrology to chart a course for your business What it means to decolonize Sacred Earth Medicine Tips for grounding yourself, even in the middle of the city How plants remind us of seasons in our own lives Moments of remembrance in Lynsey's journey as a curandera Viewing psychedelics as portals to potential Understanding that some of these medicines are not for everybody Psychedelics as powerful creative tools The power of music to enhance creative energy Insight into cymatics and sound healing Ways in which art has had a tangible impact on Lynsey Keep up with Lynsey by checking out her website, connecting with her on Instagram, or following this link to access her events, online shop, free resources, and more! Listen to more Surviving The City podcasts by following this link. Also, connect with us on Instagram.