The Shakapa — a handheld bundle of leaves — is one of the simplest yet most beloved tools we use in ceremony. Traditionally, it’s made from the leaves of a jungle bush known by the same name. In Colombia, the leaves are larger and the bouquet is called Waira, the word for wind, reflecting the belief that these leaves carry the spirit of movement and air.

When shaken in rhythmic waves, the Chacapa creates a soft, rain-like sound which clears stagnant energy. More than that, it structures the space — bringing order without disturbing the necessary chaos, so that everyone can move safely within it.

Some say this rustling is like tuning into the forest itself, or like creating a field of static, similar to an old TV when the program ends. In this white noise, reality feels more fluid, as if the patterns can be gently rearranged.

Our root teacher Marko is part of a very different path. More a free spirit than a traditional shaman, he nonchalantly describes using the Shakapa as moving pixels. An idea we’re only beginning to understand. Much of our way of holding space, weaving magic, and staying true to ourselves beyond the ceremony comes from his guidance. ❤️

Some call it Chacapa, others Shakapa. One feels more masculine, the other more feminine. Depending on who moves it and with what intention, this humble bundle can structure chaos while allowing the jungle’s breath to flow freely through the space.

For those in ceremony, the sound of the Chacapa can be deeply comforting: an anchor back to presence, a whisper from the plants that you are safely held in good company, cradled within nature’s womb.