Years ago, during my first trip to Brazil, I participated in a fire circle with a Kariri Xocó shaman. During the ceremony, I was offered the plant medicine sananga. At the time, the shaman explained what it was, how it worked, and the benefits it provided. Without hesitation, I said—NO! My initial thought was: I [...]

Six years ago, I was introduced to the plant medicine rapé (pronounced Ha-Pay) in Massarandupio, Bahia, Brazil, by Cacique Paruana, a Kariri Xocô shaman. My first experience was so powerful it left me in awe—and, truthfully, a little scared. The intensity! From setting my intentions to receiving those sharp blows, I was launched into an [...]