How to Smoke a Hookah Properly
Even an experienced smoker may not always clearly explain how to properly smoke a hookah. So for beginners, it's essential to learn the intricacies, nuances, and secrets of setting up the device, as well as the unspoken etiquette of communities that spend their free time enjoying this hobby.
Hookah Preparation: Key Points
Without proper preparation, it’s hard to enjoy the full experience of hookah smoking. Start with selecting the liquid base, which depends on personal preference. The choice of tobacco blend is also significant and varies according to taste. There are several methods to prepare the device:
- Natural method: Using your lungs to pull air through the hookah.
- Artificial method: Lighting the coals with a special pump, which accelerates the process of getting the device ready.
For those experienced in hookah smoking and with good lung capacity, preparing it alone isn't an issue. However, a pump can help save time and effort. There are manual and electric pumps. Professionals usually prefer electric models, which are portable, compact, and powered by an outlet. Manual pumps are a budget-friendly, accessible option that doesn’t rely on power.
How to Prepare the Hookah
For experienced hookah users, activating the hookah is fairly straightforward. Beginners, however, may need patience, as following these steps can be helpful for those with little or no experience.
- Heat the bowl of tobacco over the hot coals. Within a few minutes, it will be ready.
- Take slow, shallow puffs. Once the mixture is well-heated, about five inhales will suffice.
To make the experience more enjoyable, try learning smoke tricks like blowing smoke rings.
For faster preparation, try some “quick tricks,” such as creating a small foil cap to help heat all components evenly or adding a few extra coals. The key is to find the right balance so the tobacco doesn’t burn.
When the hookah is prepared and ready, it will emit a pleasant aromatic smoke.
If the hookah doesn’t start properly, the reasons may be:
- Insufficient experience of the person preparing it.
- Poor quality of the tobacco blend.
The Importance of Quality Coals
Good quality shisha coals are essential for an enjoyable experience and will enhance the pleasure of smoking. Low-quality coals, on the other hand, can spoil the entire session. Generally, the price is a good indicator of quality; it’s better to invest in more expensive, reputable brands to ensure the right experience. High-quality coals may also be more economical, as only a small amount is needed for a complete session, unlike cheaper coals which may require replacement.
Good quality coals will ignite within 10 minutes, and portable burners or a gas stove are helpful for this purpose.
Choosing the Liquid Base
The water in the hookah’s base serves as a kind of filter, trapping almost half of the harmful substances. Most often, people use plain water in the base, but connoisseurs sometimes prefer milk, juice, or even alcoholic beverages – these liquids must be diluted with water so they don’t overpower the tobacco’s aroma. Adding ice cubes is also popular as it cools the mixture.
To Inhale or Not to Inhale?
This question often confuses beginners. The choice is personal, depending on individual preference. If you choose to inhale, follow these simple tips:
- Inhale slowly and deeply into the lungs, then exhale just as gently. Beginners may feel lightheaded, so it’s better to use high-quality devices.
- Avoid shallow breaths, as they can cause harmful substances to accumulate in the lungs.
- Comfort is key; a comfortable posture enhances the experience.
- Feel free to add some flair – it can add style and a unique touch to your hookah session (for example, holding the mouthpiece in a particular way or performing smoke tricks).
Hookah Smoking Etiquette
In the Middle East, hookah is an integral part of social gatherings. The tradition of smoking hookah dates back centuries and is strictly observed to this day. It's believed to have health benefits, and both men and women enjoy smoking it, gathering in groups on the street or in cafes.
The etiquette of smoking hookah remains relevant in today’s world. Knowing how to smoke properly demonstrates respect for others, especially if you've rented a hookah for a large gathering.
How to Smoke Hookah with One Mouthpiece
One person, usually the hookah master or the most experienced member, takes care of the device.
- The mouthpiece is passed around in a circle. If it’s a while before your turn, wait patiently.
- Take no more than three puffs per turn.
- If someone is unwell, they should avoid smoking to prevent spreading illness.
- Pass the mouthpiece gently, without tugging or pulling the hose.
One session usually lasts from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the amount of fragrant mix and the number of participants. It’s best to limit sessions to two per day to avoid potential health issues.
By following these simple rules and techniques, you’ll create an unforgettable evening in the company of fellow hookah enthusiasts. There’s hardly anything more enjoyable than a friendly conversation amid the mystical, aromatic smoke.