Back to Basics: Lessons from the Ecuadorian Amazon

Spending time in the Ecuadorian Amazon was nothing short of transformative. The real highlight? Living among the indigenous people and experiencing their way of life—one deeply connected to nature, free from modern distractions, and rooted in ancient wisdom.

Out there, life strips down to its essentials. No internet, no unnecessary noise—just the rhythm of the sun, the earth beneath your feet, and food grown from scratch. Evenings were painted with breathtaking sunsets, a reminder of nature’s simple, unfiltered beauty. But what struck me most was their profound relationship with plants—not just for sustenance, but for healing. Every illness had a remedy found in the jungle, a testament to the deep respect and understanding they have for nature’s medicine.

Cacao was another revelation. Walking through vast cacao plantations, I realized how this sacred plant carries wisdom far beyond its commercial value. The indigenous people treat it with reverence, a symbol of both nourishment and connection to the land. They shared stories of how cacao isn’t just food—it’s medicine, a source of energy, and even used in spiritual ceremonies.

Of course, it wasn’t always easy. Bathing in the river, surrounded by spiders and tiny fish, was an adventure in itself. The humid jungle air, the challenge of sleeping in a mosquito net while listening to the sounds of the wild, and the absence of modern comforts forced me out of my comfort zone. But it also made me realize how much we take for granted—hot showers, electricity, even just a bed with a mattress. Yet, the simplicity of jungle life had a certain purity, a raw authenticity that was deeply humbling.

And then, there were the mosquitoes. Not just any mosquitoes—these were relentless, heavy-biting jungle warriors that seemed immune to regular repellents. No matter how much I covered up, they found their way to exposed skin, leaving behind itchy souvenirs. If I ever return, I’ll be super prepared—armed with the strongest repellent, long-sleeved clothing, and more. Their resilience taught me a lesson in endurance, but next time, I’d rather learn it with fewer bites!

One of the biggest takeaways from this experience was the indigenous people's profound respect for nature. They see the jungle as a living, breathing entity, something to be honored and protected, not exploited. Their way of life is a reminder that we don’t need as much as we think we do. Happiness isn’t found in material things, but in the connections we build—with nature, with others, and with ourselves.

Ultimately, the Amazon taught me that life doesn’t have to be complicated. When you strip away the excess, what remains is something truly valuable—balance, wisdom, and a profound connection to the earth. And perhaps, that’s the greatest lesson of all.