How To Smoke Hookah
Hookah, also known as shisha, is a popular smoking method that has been enjoyed for centuries in many cultures around the globe. If you're new to hookah smoking, it can seem overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance and technique, it can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of smoking hookah so you can get the most out of your smoking session.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hookah
Before you start smoking, you need to set up your hookah. Follow the steps outlined in our How to Set Up a Hookah article to get your hookah ready to smoke.
Step 2: Pack Your Bowl
Once your hookah is set up, it's time to pack your bowl with shisha tobacco. Use a fork or your fingers to spread the tobacco evenly in the bowl. Don't pack the tobacco too tightly, as this can prevent airflow and make it harder to smoke.
Step 3: Add Charcoal
Next, light your hookah charcoal using a lighter or stove. Once it's fully lit, place it on top of the hookah bowl. Use tongs to handle the charcoal and avoid burning your fingers.
Step 4: Take Slow, Steady Puffs
Wait a few minutes for the charcoal to heat up the tobacco. Once you start to see smoke coming out of the hookah hose, it's time to start smoking. Take slow, steady puffs from the hose, inhaling the smoke into your mouth and then exhaling it out slowly. Don't inhale the smoke directly into your lungs, as this can be harsh on your throat and lungs.
Step 5: Manage the Heat
As you smoke, keep an eye on the heat of your hookah. If the smoke starts to get harsh or tastes burnt, the tobacco is likely getting too hot. You can manage the heat by moving the charcoal around on the bowl or removing a piece of charcoal altogether. You can also add more charcoal if the smoke is weak or thin.
Step 6: Switch Flavors
If you're smoking with a group of friends, you may want to switch up the flavor of your shisha tobacco from time to time. To do this, simply remove the bowl from the stem, clean it out, and pack it with a different flavor of tobacco. Make sure to let your bowl cool down before rinsing it under water.
Step 7: Clean Your Hookah
After you're finished smoking, it's important to clean your hookah to keep it in good condition. Use a brush or sponge to clean the bowl, stem, and hose, and rinse them out with water. Let everything dry completely before storing it away.