Rapéh | The Step-by-Step Self Application Tutorial
Creature comforts became a vital component of staying sane during the 2020 Coronavirus lockdown. Self isolation can be extremely tough and with no outlets for our energy we can become stagnant. Regular exercise, meditation and having a daily routine helped to keep our mental and physical health in check.
As an initiative to help our Planet Kambo community we started offering free samples of Rapéh and a Tomahawk Self Applicator Pipe to those that wanted. Although simple to use if you'd never experienced Rapéh before, knowing exactly how to self apply this medicine might not be obvious.
For anyone who is unsure I have made a step-by-step guide on how you can blow Rapéh for yourself to connect to the Grandfather Spirit.
What is Rapéh?
Rapéh is a powdered tobacco snuff that has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures. It's not smoked or inhaled but rather "blown" into the nostrils using a pipe. This can be done with two people, one being the giver and the other the receiver, and also it can be done alone using a self applicator pipe. Rapéh brings one to immediate presence, quieting the mind and grounding one's energy. It's a powerful shamanic tool and for good reason.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of Rapéh are many. It works very deeply on the physical, psychological and energetic body. As mentioned above, Rapéh quiets the mind instantly; it clears all thoughts and centres the user by grounding their energy. Rapéh is "earth energy" so it is one of the most grounding medicines that exists. Rapéh can also cause an expansion of consciousness and open the crown chakra to allow divine insights to manifest. Rapéh also cleanses the energetic field, removing negative energy and bringing one into balance. Rapéh can be purgative and bring on vomiting. If this is the case then one is removing a negative influence that is residing in the body.
Where is it used?
Rapéh is traditionally used in many different situations. It can be used ceremonially, either on its own or paired with other plant medicines. We use Rapéh in our Kambo ceremonies to ground and centre the receivers before they take Kambo. It has a calming and euphoric effect that can help to reduce any nervousness or anxiety before a Kambo experience. It is also used as a hunting medicine by indigenous cultures to heighten the senses and bring an abundance of energy. This allows them to go for long periods without food or sleep while going on long treks into the jungle. Lastly, it is used socially and recreationally by indigenous people similar to how we use cigarettes in the West.
What is a Tomahawk Pipe?
Rapéh is traditionally blown using a long "Peace Pipe" when applying to someone else and using a 'V-shaped" Tomahawk Pipe when self applying. The shape of the Tomahawk allows one to blow the Rapéh into the nostrils without assistance. These pipes are usually made from bamboo or animal bone.