Hapé is the preparation of powdered medicinal herbs. Hapé is typically made with mapacho – Hapé elicits a feeling of alertness and elevation that surpasses most other natural plant-based effects. Amazonian hapé is consumed in two ways:
As a “soplo” given by a shaman or medicine man/woman through a blowpipe called a “Tepi.” Or Self-administered, via a blowpipe called a “Kuripe.” The Kuripe is a South American tool for the self-application of rapé through a common practice known as Naquada in the Peruvian Amazon and similar practices found elsewhere throughout the continent. Due to its simple construction, it is believed that it was born from the wooden spoons used for herbal teas, which were placed in the mouth between the lips and gums to activate the rapé and deliver it to the receptors of taste
The Kuripe is a simple yet effective tool that allows the user to self-administer rapé. It consists of a thin, hollow tube made of wood, bone, metal or other natural materials with a small blow hole in one end and a receiving hole in the other.
Here are the steps to self-administering rapé through a Kuripe:
Step 1: Find a quiet space to meditate
Step 2: Ground yourself into the present moment and focus on your intention for this prayer.
Step 3: Recite your rapé prayer as you measure out the amount of rapé you want to consume on the palm of your hand.
Step 4: Load up the nose end of your rapé applicator with half the amount on your palm. Tap the V end on a hard surface to remove any stuck rapéor air pockets. The most important success factor in self-administering rapé is finding that perfect fit Kuripe! Visit our shop to see the different kinds of kuripes we offer.
Step 5: Take a deep breath, place the mouth end of your Kuripe into your mouth and fit the nose end snugly into your nostril. Lean forward a little, close your eyes and forcibly blow the rapé into your nostril. The blow gets easier as you gain experince
Step 6: When you are ready, load up the nose end of your Kuripe with the rest of the rapé on your palm. Tap the V end on a hard surface to remove any stuck hapé or air pockets. Take a deep breath, place the mouth end of your Kuripe into your mouth and fit the nose end snugly into the opposite nostril and forcibly blow the rapé into your nostril.
Step 7: One of the main benefits of using a Kuripe for rapé is that it is a personal tool where you blow your own energy. Take a moment to experience the sensation.. You can move the force of the rapé through your channels with your fingers. Place your fingers on your middle fingers on the top of the bridge of your nose, move the energy of the rapé up your forehead and and run all your fingers along the top and sides of your heads. Brush the energy down the back of your head, along your shoulders and off into the air. You can snap your fingers to clear any old, stuck or negative energy that is being moved out of your field.
Step 8: Ground into the present moment and allow your consciousness to connect to Nature, to the healing plants in the medicine you just consumed. Lean forward to minimize rapé backdrip. Feel the ground with your hands.
Whether you are new to the practice or an experienced user, incorporating these steps in self application can help to enhance your experience and deepen your connection to this ancient and powerful tradition.