Alaina Hernandez
Despachos are an ancient ritual practice that originated in the high Andes. To make a despacho, participants create a beautiful mandala-like bundle together and then offer it back to the earth by burning, burying or giving it to running water. It is a way to make a prayer, hold intention, express gratitude and release what needs to be released.
About Alaina Hernandez
Alaina Hernandez Vincent is a nature artist, ceremonialist, writer and student of animist traditions from around the world. Her deep love of Nature grew from her upbringing in the beautiful Sierra Foothills outside of Yosemite. This love inspired her to seek out nature-based traditions, including a three year apprenticeship with the Pachakuti Mesa tradition from Peru. In that apprenticeship, she learned the ancient art of Despachos, which became interwoven with her practice of nature-based art. She lives in Mariposa with her husband Alex and beautiful daughter Celeste.