Can I smoke or indulge in cannabis before the ceremony? No, cannabis enhances your senses and pain receptors. In short, it wouldn’t be a good thing while you are getting tattooed.
Would I be able to take [insert drug of choice here] before my ceremony to help me relax? No, we don’t encourage any type of drug or alcohol before the ceremony. If you need to relax prior to the ceremony, we suggest meditation and/or yoga to help get you in a good headspace.
Why can’t I get a massage or visit a chiropractor before getting tattooed? Getting any kind of bodywork (massage, chiropractor, etc.) before receiving your skin markings may make the experience more painful. This due to the fact that your body is still recovering and healing from being worked on. Again, this is highly discouraged because we want your ceremony to be as comfortable as possible.
If you insist of getting body work prior to your ceremony, please do it 7 days before your ceremony.
Can I go into the ocean after getting a batok? No. Anciently, we cleansed ourselves in the ocean because of its healing properties. However, our oceans are currently polluted and contain bacteria that can infect your brand new tattoo. I live a natural lifestyle and notice that the protocol sheet recommends using Aquaphor for aftercare. Are there any alternatives you recommend? If you don’t want to use A&D or Aquaphor, you can use a brand new jar of coconut oil (that hasn’t been previously opened or used for anything else) to moisturize and heal your tattoo.