Protocols for Conduct in Sacred Gatherings in the Mayan Bioregion

Sacred gatherings are spaces for communion with the divine, with Mother Earth, and with those who guard ancestral wisdom. To honor these moments, it is essential to maintain a demeanor of respect, love, and commitment.
 

1. Personal and Spiritual Preparation

   • Arrive on time, with a willing heart and mind.

   • Dress simply and cleanly, preferably in light or traditional colors.

   • Maintain inner silence before beginning, focusing your intention on the common good and on the Mother.
      

2. Respect for the Altar and Sacred Space

   • The altar is the heart of the ceremony: it may not be touched or altered without the authorization of the Eagle Fire in charge.

   • Avoid stepping over offerings, flowers, candles, instruments, or sacred elements.

   • If you wish to offer anything (flowers, copal, seeds, water), do so reverently and with the prior consent of the person in charge of the altar.
      

3. During Prayers, Songs, and Calls

   • Listen attentively and silently when the Grandmother, Grandfather, or the ceremony guide speaks.

   • Join prayers, songs, or invocations only when invited.

   • Do not interrupt or distract during the invocation of the four directions, the sacred fire, or the ceremonial words.
      

4. Drugs, Alcohol, and Altering Substances

   • The consumption of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that alters consciousness is strictly prohibited before, during, or after the ceremony within the sacred space.

   • Those who arrive under the influence of these substances may not participate in the meeting or remain in the circle.

   • Respect for tradition demands that the only "medicine" allowed be sacred medicine delivered in coordination with the Grandmothers or spiritual guides, in the stipulated places and within the corresponding ceremonial framework.
      

5. The Temazcal and Special Considerations

   • The temazcal is a space for purification and rebirth, guided by the elders and the men who maintain the fire and the ceremony.

   • Women who are menstruating honor the strength of their moon and, out of respect for tradition, do not enter the temazcal or participate in certain parts of the ritual, unless specifically instructed by the guides.

   • All participants must follow the instructions of the temazcal guides, maintaining silence, respect, and devotion throughout the process.
      

6. Childcare

   • Children are welcomed as sacred seeds of the future.

   • Each mother, father, or guardian is responsible for their care, ensuring that they feel safe and supported.

   • You are encouraged to lovingly explain the meaning of the altar and the ceremony to them so that they may participate respectfully.

   • If a child needs to move or play, it is suggested that they do so in spaces adjacent to the circle, without interrupting the ceremony.

   • The example of adults is the most powerful guide for children to learn the value of respect and spirituality.

   • Ideally, arrange a place and a person specifically in charge of their care and a guide for children with a schedule of activities for the children before the event.
      

7. Sexual and Energetic Respect

   • The sexual act is sacred, but it has its own time and place. Within events, ceremonies, or spaces dedicated to Mother Earth, sexual relations in any form or creed are not permitted.

   • Performing sexual relations in these places is a profound lack of respect for the altar, for Mother Earth, and for the community, as it generates energetic contamination and can open doors to imbalances or astral larvae.

   • Those who need to express their sacred union can do so at another time, in an appropriate space, and with due awareness.
      

8. General Behavior

   • Keep your cell phone off or on silent mode, and do not use it within the sacred circle.

   • Avoid outside conversations during the ceremony.

   • Respect the word of each participant and do not impose points of view.

   • Maintain an attitude of care and service toward others, especially toward the elders and children present.
      

9. Commitment to Mother Earth

   • Recognize that each meeting is an act of service and love toward Mother Earth.

   • Upon leaving, clean and tidy the area, as a symbol of gratitude.

   • Integrate the lessons learned, prayers, and commitments made in the circle into your daily life.
      

10. Inner Attitude

    • Participate with humility, dedication, and openness.

    • Honor the lineage, ancestral wisdom, and all the nations that come together in the Mayan Bioregion.

    • Always remember that the purpose is healing, unity, and the flourishing of life.
       

11. Tobacco Products

    • Semma is a sacred plant that is only to be utilized within ceremony by authorized elders utilizing the Ceremonial Pipe, or the Sacred Cigar.

    • Designated locations will be provided for usage of tobacco for those smoking cigarettes; however, it should be understood that our ancestors never advocated for such abuse of the sacred plant.

    • Locations will be established in a way that children do not see the use in a disrespectful manner.
       

"With love and respect, every gesture becomes a prayer, and every encounter an offering to Mother Earth."