Shisha, or hookah, is an innovative way to enjoy tobacco that differs from smoking regular cigarettes. Naturally, smoking shisha is quite different from smoking traditional cigarettes. This type of smoking involves several components, including the bowl, the pipe, coconut charcoal, and more. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to smoke shisha effectively to create the most enjoyable experience.
Initial Preparation Before Smoking
Here are the components you need to prepare before starting to smoke shisha:
Choosing the Right Tobacco and Charcoal
Shisha tobacco is usually available in a variety of flavors, such as fruits (apple, grape, orange), spices (cinnamon, vanilla), and flavor blends (berry mix, tropical blend). Choose a tobacco flavor that suits your taste. If you are trying it for the first time, start with a more common or popular flavor. Shisha tobacco also comes in different nicotine levels. Select a tobacco with a nicotine content that matches your preferences or personal health needs. There are also nicotine-free options for those who want to avoid nicotine’s effects.
The right choice of charcoal can be determined by its carbon content. Charcoal designed for shisha is made to light quickly using a gas stove or charcoal heater. This type is generally easier to use and heats up faster but may produce more residue. On the other hand, some charcoals take longer to ignite, usually requiring a charcoal heater or special stove. These typically burn cleaner and produce more stable heat, which can enhance the smoking experience.
Essential Equipment for How to Smoke Shisha
Several tools are needed in the process of smoking hookah, including the hose, bowl, and filling the water tank.
- Hose: The shisha hose should be clean and free from any dirt or old tobacco residue. Ensure that the hose is not leaking or damaged to guarantee a smooth airflow. If the hose is dirty, clean it with soapy water or use a special shisha hose cleaner.
- Bowl: The bowl where the tobacco is placed should be in good condition, free from cracks or damage. A damaged bowl can affect heat distribution and disrupt the smoking experience. Make sure the bowl fits the size and design of your shisha.
- Filling the Water Tank: The water in the shisha tank helps to cool and humidify the smoke before inhalation, making the smoking experience more enjoyable and smoother. Fill the tank with clean water up to the recommended level (usually about 1/3 to 1/2 of the tank’s capacity). You can add ice or flavorings to the water for additional effects, but ensure the water remains clean and fresh.
Assembling the Hookah
After preparing for smoking hookah, you also need to understand the proper assembly process.
Assembling the Hookah
- Attach the Stem (Body) to the Tank: Begin by connecting the stem (body) of the hookah to the tank. Ensure that the stem is securely fitted and there are no gaps that might allow air to leak. This is crucial for ensuring optimal smoke flow.
- Place the Bowl: Position the bowl on top of the stem. Make sure the bowl is securely attached and not loose. Usually, the bowl will have a ring or seal to keep it stable.
- Connect the Hose: Attach the hose to the designated part of the stem or the appropriate opening. Ensure that the hose is tightly connected to prevent air leaks and to ensure smooth smoke flow. If your hookah has multiple hoses, ensure each one is properly connected.
- Check All Connections: Verify that all parts of the hookah are properly and securely assembled. Check each connection to ensure there are no air leaks that could affect the smoking experience.
Preparing the Tobacco
Take the hookah tobacco and stir it gently if needed to avoid clumps. Tobacco typically comes with molasses or honey that keeps it moist and adds flavor. Then, place the tobacco evenly into the bowl. Use a small spoon or your hands to put the tobacco in without overpacking it. Ensure the tobacco is spread out evenly and not too tightly packed in the bowl. Avoid pressing the tobacco down too hard; leave a little space to allow the smoke to flow properly.
If the tobacco is too packed, air will have difficulty passing through, leading to an unsatisfactory taste and less effective smoke. Avoid compressing the tobacco too firmly. Conversely, if the tobacco is too loose, it may burn unevenly, affecting the flavor quality. Ensure the tobacco has the right density to allow for good air circulation.
Placing the Charcoal for Heating the Hookah
To light the shisha charcoal, you can use a gas stove or a charcoal heater. With a gas stove, place the charcoal over the flame and let it ignite until the entire surface turns red and glowing, which usually takes a few minutes. Alternatively, a charcoal heater, specifically designed for this purpose, can be used. Place the charcoal inside the heater and let the device work until the charcoal is fully ignited, providing more consistent and convenient results.
Once the charcoal is ready, use tongs to place it on top of the tobacco in the hookah bowl. Ensure that the charcoal is placed evenly and not touching the tobacco directly to avoid direct burning that could affect the flavor. Carefully position the charcoal on top of the bowl to ensure even heat distribution, which will result in an optimal smoking experience and better flavor.
Read Also: Does Shisha Get You High? Debunking Common Myth
How to Smoke Shisha
To ensure the shisha works well after assembly, first, make sure all parts are securely connected and there are no air leaks. Check that the charcoal is fully ignited and positioned correctly on top of the tobacco. Next, blow a small amount of air through the hose to ensure smooth smoke flow and check for any blockages. If needed, adjust the position of the charcoal to ensure even heat distribution across the tobacco.
When smoking, inhale slowly and deeply to achieve the best experience. This technique helps to channel the smoke more effectively into the lungs and enhances the flavor. If the smoke feels unsatisfactory, check if the charcoal is too close to the tobacco or if the tobacco is too packed. Adjust the charcoal position or the density of the tobacco to improve smoke flow and quality. If issues persist, recheck all equipment to ensure there are no technical problems.
Coconut Charcoal for Shisha
A key component in effective shisha smoking is high-quality coconut charcoal. Pure and high-quality coconut charcoal provides a better smoking experience. For the best coconut charcoal, you can contact Little Briquette at the admin number provided here.