More than the stories behind a tattoo, or the importance they have in our lives, the experience itself of getting a tattoo can be as epic as well. As someone who has six tattoos, I can say I still remember with joy how special were the days when I got each of them. Now, something to always bear in mind before getting a tattoo is the importance of its meaning in your life. Although many designs are really fashionable and have become trends, I strongly recommend you to get something that speaks to you on a personal level and that has a particular meaning. If you’re looking for an incredible experience, Sak Yant tattoos are a great choice.
Known as Yantra or Thai tattoos, Sak Yant designs are traditional ritual body art that consists in mystical designs that are meant to give protection. They work as amulets with magical benefits against dark powers, which is why they can’t be made at a random parlor (although several studios claim they can). The whole process promises to be a unique spiritual experience that you’ll never forget. So what’s the process to get one?
Although some Buddhist traditions believe in this ritual, it’s most common to find them in Thailand. Now, as I mentioned they can’t be done by regular tattoo artists –unless you just like the design and don’t care about the experience. The real deal are those done by Buddhist monks in a very particular ceremony. Many tourist agencies offer tours to authentic temples where you can get your Sak Yant. However, there are many rules and details you must know beforehand so you can decide whether it’s an experience you’re willing to go through.
The first thing has to do with the designs. Traditionally, you’re not able to choose it. The monk in charge will read your aura and select the one that best fits your personality and spirituality, ensuring you get the right protective amulet. Some monks are more relaxed on the matter and believe that your design choice means that the symbol has spoken to you on a spiritual level.
These tattoos are made with sharpened bamboo rods and a sort of hammer. No machine or needles are used in this process. This makes a lot of people nervous, since the tools don’t follow what we consider the sanitation measures we’re used to. However, specialized temples follow strict hygiene standards, so there’s really nothing to worry about.
Another thing to consider is that some temples won’t agree on tattooing women. Following the Buddhist norms, a monk is not allowed to touch someone of the opposite sex, not even the sightless brush, since that would mean they have to submit themselves to a cleanse ritual. However, there are some who will agree on tattooing women on two conditions: they must have assistants to stretch the skin for them so they don’t have to touch the woman or she must be accompanied by a man who’s also getting one.
Now, what’s the procedure? The moment you meet the monk, you have to bow three times to honor Buddha, Buddhism, and the monk himself. Once this is done, you have to present him with a donation that can vary according to the temple. Some of them do have fees they can charge you if you want to be accompanied by someone or if you’re a woman and they actually agree on tattooing you. Besides the monetary donation, it’s a sign of good will and fortune to offer candles, flowers, and incense. The monk takes the tray with your offering and meditates while you’re holding it in order to make a connection with you on a spiritual level. Then the tattoo process begins.
While the monk pierces your skin, he chants and prays, so the energy inserts on your skin. Once the tattoo is finished, the monk has to consecrate the amulet through a ceremony that involves more chants and slightly touching the tattoo. Finally, he places a golden leaf next or on the design as a sign of good luck. You bow three more times, and you’re ready to go.
One of the indications is that you can’t clean the tattoo with regular soap. Far from that, the aftercare is actually less strict than with regular tattoos. Another pro about this type of tattoos is that the technique is less invasive for the skin, the ink lasts longer, and it barely produces scarring. However, they do recommend to retouch it once a year to secure the protection, but that’s up to you.
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These tattoos are bound to offer more than sacred protection. Making them the right way will leave you an experience that will accompany you forever. Going to Thailand to get one of these tattoos can be difficult for many, yet there are other ancient symbols that can also give you protection if you believe in their meaning.
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Source:
Sak Yant Chiang Mai
