Turning the Tide: What is a Kuti Despacho?

The Despacho ceremony is a core tradition of the Andean people, particularly the Q'ero of Peru, serving as a sacred offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (Mountain Spirits). While most despachos are acts of Ayni (reciprocity) focused on gratitude and manifestation, one type has a distinct and powerful purpose: the Kuti Despacho.

The term "Kuti" means "turning back," "reversing," or "shielding off."

The Kuti Despacho is an energetic tool designed for protection, release, and clearing heavy energy (hucha). Its intention is not to bring new blessings in, but to powerfully shed, repel, and reverse negativity that may be lingering in a person's life or directed at them. This is the ceremony for:

• Turning back energetic attacks like jealousy, anger, or gossip.

• Releasing old blocks and stagnant emotions.

• Clearing a space or individual of heavy energy.

The Kuti Despacho is easily distinguished from other offerings. While a standard gratitude despacho uses sweet and beautiful items, the Kuti employs "irritating" and dark ingredients, such as salt, chili peppers, and dark seeds, often arranged on black paper to absorb the negativity.

Crucially, the bundle is constructed in a counter-clockwise motion, symbolizing the "unwinding" and reversal of the negative energy. The offering is typically disposed of ceremonially, often by burning or burying, with the specific method depending on the intention of the release.

Build your own despacho with Apu at any of her ceremonial class offerings or book a one-on-one session to dig deeper.