Indigenous Hampaya Songbook Ceremony
Details
The Huni Kuin, or True People, are one of the largest indigenous tribes in the Brazilian Amazon. Hampaya is one of their healing rituals. The healer or Casique, invokes the spirit of the Txana, a bird that can imitate all sounds of the forest, and is the earth's most skilled singer. He applies crushed chili peppers, (pimenta do reino) from the jungle to participants tongues while simultaneously praying in his native language. This allows the opening and strengthening of the participant's voice, to sing and express oneself better or even learn a language. Participants will keep the tongue hanging out of their mouths while the saliva drains. There is very little spicy sensation during the process (unless you accidentally pull your tongue in too soon!) It is such a privilege for us to receive this ancient methodology for improving the healing quality of our voices. Rapé and Sananga will also be offered. As soon as we are finished, we will begin singing from our community song book as intended!
About Txana Masha:
Txana Masha is the son of a traditional chief from the Huni Kuin tribe. He is an advocate for the ecological heritage of his people’s native lands, both domestically and internationally. Born on the Humaita River Kaxinawá Reserve, in the state of Acre, Brazil. Txana Masha learned to speak Portuguese fluently at around 20 years old. From an early age, he began his responsibility to care for and practice their ancestral wisdom.
Donation $20-$60 sliding scale (that means $20 min, but if you can afford more please give more!)