A cornerstone of the Onanya’s training is the practice of plant dietas—
Sama—a method in which the apprentice forms a close, sacred bond with master plants. During these dietas, the Onanya isolates themselves in the jungle, consuming specific plants under strict dietary restrictions. This process allows the Onanya to learn directly from the plant spirits, who impart their wisdom and healing powers. Each plant has its own unique energy and purpose, and the Onanya learns how to work with them to address a variety of ailments and spiritual needs. Through this deep connection, the Onanya becomes a vessel for the plant's healing power.
Becoming an Onanya is a lifelong dedication that involves:
- Rigorous Initiation: Apprentices undergo extended periods of isolation and adhere to strict plant dietas—Sama—to connect deeply with the plant spirits.
- Learning from Nature: They receive teachings directly from nature, guided by their mentors and the spirits of the plants. They learn sacred songs—Rao Bewa (with Rao meaning medicinal).
- Spiritual Identity Formation: Years of dedication, purification, and discipline shape not only their abilities but also their spiritual essence. If they pass the dieta successfully, they will be coronated.
Therefore, not everyone can heal with their song. It is not about how beautifully the song is performed or how talented the person is at singing; what truly matters is having followed the traditional plant dieta, as passed down by the ancestors. After undergoing the purifications and abstinences of the initiation process, the soul of the dieter forms a deep bond with the Owners of the medicinal plants. Through this emotional connection, the dieter receives the plants' strength, wisdom, and healing powers. When the doctor calls upon the plant by name in his song, the Owner of the plant will respond, awakening its medicinal force.
A legitimate song, one capable of healing, flows from the timeless source of wisdom passed down by our ancestors. If the Onanya is legitimate, when he begins to sing, the medicinal words will open for him, allowing him to summon his allies (doctors) to help remove the negative energies that no longer belong to the participant.