I Got My First Tattoo From A Spiritual Master – This Was My Experience

How lucky are we to be born into this world as our very own canvas? A canvas—a body— cloaking the sanctity of our inner-temple, capable of reflecting spirit and expression. A canvas that represents the journey of its life and experiences—the pain and hurt, growth and strength.

Indeed, this body is a canvas and what if we could embellish it with tools that support our soul’s journey? If we could decorate it with reminders capable of uplifting our spirit and manifesting our deepest truth? I’ve come to believe that we can. More than just a visual expression, tattoos can be a symbolic and empowering act that help people see parts of themselves in a new light. Tattoos can contribute to a positive sense of self, telling a story and providing a deeper process of reflection and purpose for the wearer. They are an outlet for self-love, a source of recovery, and a means for healing.*

As a creative spirit and artist, I’ve always wanted a tattoo. I’ve drawn many tattoos, mostly infused with elements of nature and sacred geometry. But something always held me back from making it permanent. I wanted something that was unlike anything I’ve ever seen, something powerful and symbolic, something that couldn’t be found on anyone else.

Then I found Master Svietliy (via positive social media). He is the only person blessed and initiated by Buddhist Monk Ajan Toi to give Sak Yant tattoo ceremonies around the world. Sak Yant are hand poked tattoos that require many years of training and an understanding of magical languages, symbolism and the blessings associated with each design.

Master Svietliy learns from the universe, interacting with it through sacred symbols to manifest intentions that help people return to their source. To grow, heal, and shed the layers of conditioning and illusion – to reveal the true self. Sounds magical, right?

Without hesitation, I knew this was meant to be.

MORNING OF CEREMONY

I started my morning slow, taking time for outdoor meditation, journaling, reflection, and hydration. Allowing my intuition to guide my intention for the ceremony, I asked myself ‘What do I need the most in my life right now?’

THE CEREMONY:INTENTION

Later that afternoon, I arrived to the beautiful Earth Altar Studio, welcomed with kindness and excited to meet Master Svietliy. As he approached me, I immediately felt his powerful yet loving presence – a presence that is special and not easy to come by.

We went into Svietliy’s sanctuary and sat across from one another, sipping herbal tea. We got started.

“Why are you here?” He asked.

How does one begin to answer such a question to a spiritual teacher they just met? I reached in my backpack and pulled out my jottings from earlier that morning. I let my thoughts and feelings spill out without structure, from goals to intentions to fears and everything in between.

For so many years, I’ve grown to know myself as a strong, successful woman… but something always held me back. A guard I labeled as social anxiety. A fear of failure that keeps me from truly feeling free. The ‘security’ of comfort or acceptance of others.

As our conversation deepened, what I needed most came to the surface – I must embody the power of my divine feminine and mindful awareness. Something I’ve been practicing for 6 years now but is a constant work in progress…the power of the present moment. The power of creation, connection, and sensuality. Opening myself to receive, and to not only give unconditionally. The power of this intention can bring my energy back to a harmonious balance that takes dedication and practice to maintain and grow.

THE CEREMONY:MEDITATION

After our conversation, we closed our eyes to meditate together, and Svietliy guided me to a state of complete consciousness. I felt my layers shedding, my heart opening up to someone I had just met hours earlier, my spirit full of excitement and gratitude for this experience, and the experiences that have led me to exploring the universe within, the universe beyond the physical being, the mind, abundance and belief in something more.

THE CEREMONY:SAK YANT TATTOO

While Svietliy drew my sacred symbol, I soaked up California sunshine in the garden out behind the studio. I spoke to the universe, feeling that I was exactly where I was supposed to be. When Svietliy was ready to show me what he created for me, I was absolutely speechless. It’s the most beautiful symbol I’ve ever seen. So powerful, so sacred, and 100% me. As someone who is usually on the side of designing for others, it was incredible to experience the reveal from the other side—to receive.

The rest of the ceremony was a meditative experience, full of music and prayer. Breathing through the sensation of the hand poked needle and watching with curiosity and amazement. It’s difficult to put into words just how meaningful this experience was for me. I felt whole and pure, connected and beyond grateful. You know when you reminisce about past memories that evoke the most amazing feelings? This is one of those that I will never forget.

AFTER THE CEREMONY

It’s been exactly one week since my sacred ceremony and I still smile when I think about it – I also can’t stop staring at my new (and very first) tattoo. I spent the rest of the week after my ceremony road-tripping California from the city to the sea and mountains.

Svietliy recommended daily meditation, eating plant based, staying away from drugs and alcohol, and surrounding myself with good energy for the next 66 days as my body cleanses and adapts to my new powerful tool of support.

I know it’s only been a week but what a difference I have felt shifting from vegetarian to vegan and eliminating marijuana and alcohol. I continue to meditate and believe that this feeling of wholeness is attainable with practice and dedication. Consistency is key!

Thank you Master Svietliy! Such a special soul you are. May our paths cross again and your work continue to ripple healing that this world so desperately needs.

If you are interested in experiencing your own sacred ceremony…Book an appointment with Master Svietliy

As always, I love hearing from you guys, comment below with any thoughts, questions, love! xox

Cassouki

1. *Words inspired by body-image therapist, Sarah Herstich and Shainna Ali, PhD, a mental health professional on the power of tattoos.