Discovering Candomblé: Foundations in Afro Brazilian Religion

      Discovering Candomblé: Foundations in Afro Brazilian Religion
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      Before visiting Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, I was fascinated by traditional African spirituality and began learning about the Orishas and their rituals. Days before my trip, I experienced my first divination based on African cosmology, which was eye-opening. Upon arriving in Salvador, I observed traces of Ifa—the West African religion of the Yoruba people from modern-day [...]
      Experiencing the Power of Rapé (Ha-Pay)

      Experiencing the Power of Rapé (Ha-Pay)
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      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 [...]
      So… I Tried Kambo

      So… I Tried Kambo
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      Before arriving in Salvador, Bahia, in January, my friend Prandhara Prem messaged me and asked if I would be interested in joining her for a Kambo ceremony. Usually, if she’s doing it, I’m interested and curious. She is the one friend who is extremely adventurous when it comes to discovering all sorts of healing and [...]
      Getting into Ayahuasca, What is it?

      Getting into Ayahuasca, What is it?
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      Ayahuasca is a powerful psychoactive brew made from two key plants native to the Amazon rainforest: Banisteriopsis caapi, a vine that contains harmala alkaloids, and Psychotria viridis, a shrub whose leaves contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT). When combined, these plants create a brew that induces profound alterations in perception, consciousness, and emotional states. The brew is traditionally [...]
      Ayahuasca Ceremony – Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

      Ayahuasca Ceremony – Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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      I’m hosting my first ayahausca medicine ceremony in Salvador, Brazil with my Kariri-Xocó family! January 31st at 19:00hrs (7pm), Huni Kuin guardian of ayahausca, Txana Bari will offer ayauascha, sananga, and rapè during a traditional plant medicine ceremony. These sacred medicines will open up ancestral wisdom and spirituality of indigenous peoples of the Brazilian Amazon.  [...]
      Genipapo for Spiritual Ceremony Preparation

      Genipapo for Spiritual Ceremony Preparation
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      In Brazil, genipapo (Genipa americana) holds significant spiritual and ceremonial value in indigenous and Afro-Brazilian traditions, where it is used in the preparation for medicine ceremonies and healing rituals. The plant is seen not only as a powerful ally for physical purification but also as an important spiritual tool, playing a role in aligning one's [...]
      New Year, New Vibes

      New Year, New Vibes
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      I started my new year off in Washington, D.C., with Bikram Yoga Works for a New Year’s Day sound meditation. This session marked the fifth year that I have worked in partnership with Bikram Yoga Works. WOW! I am beyond honored to have fostered a relationship with a studio that aligns with me and my [...]
      Atlantic Sound Meditation Vibes

      Atlantic Sound Meditation Vibes
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      I always find peace at the ocean. No matter the beach, I find my space, I plant myself in the sand and I let the sound of the ocean take me away. This ocean sound meditation centered on 2 chakras, the sacral (D note) chakra to tap into your creativity and emotional self & the [...]
      Praia do Abricó Vs Praia do Grumari Sunset Meditation

      Praia do Abricó Vs Praia do Grumari Sunset Meditation
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      After a day of amazing sun bathing at Praia do Abricó, hanging around for the beautiful and cool sunset is a must. Even better is the sunset view at the neighboring Praia do Grumari. The sounds of the waves offer a calming experience when combined with the stunning natural light show. I hope that you [...]
      Why I Chose Thai Massage

      Why I Chose Thai Massage
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      About twelve years ago, I happened to be in Los Angeles on vacation when I decided to get my first Thai massage. I knew nothing of it but knew that I wanted a massage. So I booked an appointment, got the massage and was left in AWE of how amazing and therapeutic it was. I [...]