FAQs

What is ceremonial tattooing? Ceremonial tattooing is the practice of creating a sacred space and setting a clear intention for the tattooing process. It involves honoring God/Spirit, blessing the person receiving the tattoo, and treating the application as a meaningful ritual rather than just a procedure.

How is it different from regular tattooing? Ceremonial tattooing differs from regular tattooing in that it is deeply intentional and often involves spiritual or ritual elements. While a regular tattoo session focuses on the design and technical application, ceremonial tattooing creates a sacred space, honors the tattooing process as a ritual, and includes blessings or personal intentions. It’s not just about the art—it’s about the energy, meaning, and experience surrounding it.

Is ceremonial tattooing religious or spiritual? Ceremonial tattooing is typically more spiritual than religious, though it can have religious elements depending on the culture and tradition.

Spiritual: Many ceremonial tattooing practices focus on personal transformation, protection, connection to ancestors, or aligning with higher energies. These tattoos are often seen as a way to embody meaning, power, or a deeper connection to the self and the universe.

Religious: Some traditions incorporate religious beliefs, such as Sak Yant tattoos in Thailand, which are blessed by Buddhist monks and believed to carry protective powers, or tattoos in ancient Egypt, which were linked to religious deities and rituals.

What kinds of ceremonies are involved? In my practice, I create a sacred space by honoring God/Spirit, deities, our spiritual team, animal and plant guides, and our highest selves with an altar. The act of mixing intention with blood is an ancient ritual, symbolizing commitment and transformation—much like signing a contract in ink. Tattooing itself is a ritual, as it follows a sequential and intentional process, making each mark sacred and meaningful.

What do tattoos symbolize? The imagery is co-created with your energy and intention in mind. I serve as a vessel to translate your intention into a tangible design for your body. Your tattoo symbolizes whatever you are calling into existence, releasing, or feeling deeply connected to on a soul level.

Who performs the tattoo, and do you need a certification or specialized training? I perform the tattooing. I have received ceremonial tattoo training with Malia Luna and machine tattoo training from WitchyTat2. My practice blends deep respect for ancient traditions and ceremony with modern hygiene and safety standards. I am also certified in blood-borne pathogen safety.

Is the tattooing done with traditional tools or modern machines?Traditionally, sacred tattoos were applied using specialized hand tools. In my practice, I offer both hand-poked (single-needle) tattooing and modern machine tattooing, allowing clients to choose the method that resonates with them.

Can anyone get a ceremonial tattoo, or is it reserved for certain people? Ceremonial tattooing holds deep significance in many cultures, often tied to spiritual beliefs, rites of passage, and cultural identity. In my practice, I honor the traditions and intentions behind these sacred rituals, while blending them with modern spiritual ideologies. I approach each tattoo as a unique, intentional experience, ensuring that the process is aligned with respect for both the tradition and the individual’s journey.

How do different cultures view ceremonial tattoos today? Tattoos have become more mainstream and are largely viewed as an art form, but traditional views persist, especially regarding their associations with identity, affiliation, and status. Cultural stigma surrounding tattoos still exists, particularly in public spaces, and varies by culture, region, and demographics. While tattooing is embraced for artistic expression in many communities, its cultural and spiritual significance remains strong. There are also concerns about cultural appropriation, with non-Indigenous people adopting tattoos without fully understanding their deep cultural meanings. If you're considering a tattoo style rooted in tradition or performed by specific practitioners, it's essential to research its cultural significance, the expertise of the practitioner, and how it aligns with your personal beliefs and lifestyle.

Are there any taboos or rules associated with these tattoos? There are certain taboos associated with cultural tattoos, and these can vary depending on the tradition. For example, some cultures have specific guidelines about who is eligible to receive certain tattoos or when it is appropriate to get one. In my practice, it’s crucial to approach the tattoo with a clear intention, respect for the process, and a deep understanding of its meaning. It’s also important to honor the sacredness of the ritual and avoid receiving a tattoo purely for aesthetic reasons. Respecting both the process and its significance is essential.

Does ceremonial tattooing hurt more than modern tattooing? Pain levels can be different for everyone since we all have different pain tolerances and body compositions. That said, some areas are usually more painful than others. Refer to this guide.

How long does it take to heal? A stick and poke tattoo generally takes about 2 to 3 weeks to heal on the surface, but it can take up to 4 to 6 weeks for the deeper layers of skin to fully heal. During this time, it’s important to follow aftercare instructions to avoid infection or complications. Please note that the healing process can vary based on your skin type, the size of the tattoo, and how well you care for it.

Are there special aftercare instructions? Please refer to the aftercare instructions in this infographic. However, it's important to note that after a tattoo ceremony, you may experience emotional, psychological, and/or spiritual shifts as you release what no longer serves you. During this time, it’s essential to continue caring for yourself—just as you would for your tattoo. This might involve journaling, talking with a friend or community, or seeking support from a therapist. If you're seeking additional guidance, I offer support through esoteric practices, 1:1 consultations, or you can connect with others in the SPOOKYMIJA community on Discord for more shared support.