Transforming Your Mesa (Medicine Bundle): A Guide to Building and Activating Power Objects in Andean Tradition

Working with a mesa, or medicine bundle, is a profound practice in the Andean tradition. It involves assembling and activating power objects that connect you to ancestral energies, nature, and spiritual forces. This guide draws on the wisdom of a sixth-level elder to help you build and transform your mesa with intention and respect.

The mesa is more than a collection of objects. It is a living altar that holds your spiritual power and guides your healing journey. Understanding how to select, arrange, and activate your power objects will deepen your connection to the Andean cosmos and support your personal growth.

Traditional Andean mesa with power objects

Understanding the Role of Power Objects in Your Mesa

Power objects are sacred items that carry energy and intention. Each object represents a connection to a specific element, spirit, or ancestor. Common items include:

• Stones and crystals: Represent the earth and its grounding energy.

• Feathers: Symbolise air and communication with the spirit world.

• Seeds and plants: Connect to growth, life cycles, and healing.

• Animal figures or bones: Link to animal spirits and protection.

• Metal pieces: Reflect transformation and strength.

  
  

When you build your mesa, choose objects that resonate with your personal journey and the energies you wish to invite. The selection process is intuitive and guided by respect for the natural world.

Steps to Build Your Mesa

1. Prepare your space

   Find a quiet, clean area where you can work undisturbed. Cleanse the space with smoke from sacred herbs like sage or palo santo to clear negative energy.

   
   

2. Select your base

   Use a cloth or small table as the foundation. Traditionally, a colorful woven cloth called an aguayo is used, representing the Andean landscape.

   
   

3. Gather your power objects

   Collect stones, feathers, seeds, and other items that feel meaningful. You may receive guidance from dreams, meditation, or elders.

   
   

4. Arrange with intention

   Place objects mindfully, grouping them by element or purpose. The arrangement should feel balanced and harmonious.

   
   

5. Offer gratitude

   Before activating your mesa, express thanks to the spirits, ancestors, and nature for their support.

   
   

Activating Your Power Objects

Activation brings your mesa to life. It involves rituals that awaken the energy within each object and align them with your intentions.

• Prayers and invocations

Speak or chant prayers in Quechua or your native language to call upon the apus (mountain spirits), Pachamama (Mother Earth), and other guardians.

• Offerings

Present small offerings such as coca leaves, chicha (corn beer), or flowers to honour the spirits and invite their presence.

• Energy transfer

Use your breath, hands, or a sacred tool like a chakana (Andean cross) to channel energy into each object.

• Meditation and visualisation

Sit quietly before your mesa, visualising light and power flowing through the objects and into your being.

Hands placing coca leaves on mesa

Maintaining and Transforming Your Mesa Over Time

Your mesa is a living practice that evolves with you. Regularly cleanse and recharge your power objects to keep their energy vibrant.

• Seasonal cleansing

Use smoke, water, or sunlight to purify your objects every few months.

• Renew offerings

Replace old offerings with fresh ones to maintain a strong connection with the spirits.

• Add new objects

As your path unfolds, introduce new items that reflect your growth or new intentions.

• Reflect and journal

Keep notes on your experiences with the mesa to track insights and changes.

Transforming your mesa means deepening your relationship with the sacred. It is a process of ongoing learning, respect, and devotion. Your mesa is a strong reminder of the power within you and your powerful connection to the land and the ancestors.