Amazonian Institute of Indigenous Studies
We are the Huni Kuîn nation, also known as the Kaxinawá, an Indigenous people whose origins trace back thousands of years in the Amazon rainforest.
About us
Tradition
We live in traditional villages guided by a council of elders, with a strong emphasis on collective well-being and mutual support. As the guardians of the Amazon forest, we live in symbiosis with the land. However, with a declining population, our territory is increasingly vulnerable to external threats.
Challenges
Historically living in isolation, we have faced increasing pressures from external forces over the years, including colonization, rubber exploitation, missionary efforts, and diseases such as COVID-19, which have led to the loss of elders and put our culture and knowledge at risk.
Strategy
In recent years, our young leaders have emerged, taking the initiative to share healing practices and bring support to the communities.
Practices
Music plays an important role in Huni Kuin culture, particularly during ceremonies and rituals, chanting ancient prayers that communicate with the forest’s spirits. We use instruments such as flutes, drums, acoustic guitars, and rattles in our performances.
Immersion Retreats
We offer forest immersion retreats designed to foster a deeper reconnection between individuals and the spiritual essence of nature.
Mission
Our mission is to protect the forest and its resources, and preserve the knowledge of the Huni Kuin nation by sharing traditional cultural and spiritual practices. We envision to foster collaboration and unification, striving to join forces in defending indigenous rights on an international scale.
Siã Txana Nawa
Siã Txana Nawa is a representative of indigenous chiefs and spiritual leader of the Shane Memaya community. He is also a passionate advocate of the Huni Kuin culture, located in the Alto Rio Purus region, on the border between Brazil and Peru. A young leader and ambassador of healing practices in the Me Memaya village, Siã Txana Nawa has unwavering commitment to his people, dedicating his life to the sacred practices of the Forest and his Ancestrals.