Week 6 - Eunice Valencia

Eunice Valencia

ASA 189B

Week 6

Women can experience postpartum after giving birth, it can be really hard for some to over come as they experience depression. In “Spiritual Healing Practices Among Rural Postpartum Thai Women,” the author(s) talk about Thai practices/spiritual healing done when it comes to postpartum. It is believed that “the energy that binds her body and mind together is believed to be torn apart.” Treatment/practices is needed to help take away depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Spiritual practices are done to balance the heart, mind and body.

An experiment was conducted in the rural area of Thailand. Researchers came to a conclusion that most follow the same tradition practices- “food practice, lying by the fire, hot herbal  bath, and hot herbal drink.” They are also very strict on the types of food consumed after giving birth, as it can put the woman in danger. Various herbs are believed to help keep evil spirits away. Chanting mantras lead by a healer is believed to help the woman safe from the “Goddess of Fire.” A ritual for the newborn being blessed is also held.

Spiritual healing doesn’t only relate to near death experiences, or a wandering soul, but it also plays a big role in bringing a new life on Earth.

Are these four main practices done all over the world as well? Where did these practices come about?