WTF is susto
The word susto, has been showing up all over the internets lately. Suddenly, everyone I know is doing soul retrievals and limpias. Here’s the thing… in order to get the best out of a session, you need to understand what is actually going on.
In the rich tapestry of Mesoamerican traditions, susto stands out as a fascinating concept.
What is Susto?
Susto, which translates to "fright" in Spanish, is believed to occur when a person experiences a sudden shock or fright. This traumatic event is thought to cause a piece of the soul to become detached from the body, leading to a range of symptoms and distress.
Key Characteristics of Susto
Symptoms:
- Physical: Fatigue, insomnia, lack of appetite, muscle pains.
- Psychological: Depression, anxiety, disorientation.
Causes:
- Triggered by a sudden fright, shock, or traumatic event.
- Can also result from intense emotional distress.
Cultural Context
Susto is more than just a physical or psychological condition; it is deeply spiritual. Indigenous communities view it as a disruption in the balance between the body, soul, and the cosmos.
Healing Practices
Traditional healers, known as curanderos or curanderas, employ various rituals to treat susto:
- Limpias (Spiritual Cleansings):Utilizing herbs, candles, and prayers to cleanse negative energies.
- Soul Retrievals: Rituals aimed at calling the soul back to the body, often involving symbolic acts to restore harmony.
- Offerings and Prayers: Ceremonies to appease spirits or deities that may have been disturbed.
The Broader Significance
Susto exemplifies the holistic approach to health in many Mesoamerican cultures. It underscores the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual health, highlighting the importance of traditional knowledge and practices.
By understanding susto, we gain insight into a worldview that values balance and harmony, offering lessons that are relevant even in our modern context.
Curanderas/Curanderos you should research
1. Elena Avila: A prominent curandera, registered nurse, and author known for her work in integrating traditional healing practices with modern medicine. Her book, "Woman Who Glows in the Dark: A Curandera Reveals Traditional Aztec Secrets of Physical and Spiritual Health," explores various aspects of curanderismo, including the treatment of susto.
2. Doña Enriqueta Contreras: A renowned curandera from Oaxaca, Mexico, who has been featured in several documentaries and studies about traditional healing. She is known for her extensive knowledge of herbal medicine and spiritual healing rituals, including those used to treat susto.
3. Don Elijio Panti: Although he passed away in 1996, Don Elijio Panti was a famous Maya shaman and healer from Belize. He treated numerous ailments, including susto, using a combination of herbal remedies and spiritual practices. His work has been documented in the book *"Sastun: My Apprenticeship with a Maya Healer"* by Rosita Arvigo.
4. Rosita Arvigo: Although not an indigenous curandera, Arvigo is a well-respected ethnobotanist and healer who apprenticed under Don Elijio Panti. She has carried on his work and continues to practice and teach traditional Maya healing, including treatments for susto.
These healers have contributed significantly to the understanding and preservation of traditional Mesoamerican healing practices.
MY MENTOR
Erika Buenaflor is a notable curandera, author, and modern-day practitioner of ancient Mesoamerican healing traditions. She combines her extensive academic background and practical experience to teach and share the wisdom of curanderismo, the traditional healing practices of Mesoamerican cultures. Here are some key aspects of her background and work:
Background and Education
Academic Background: Erika Buenaflor holds a Master’s degree in Religious Studies with a focus on Mesoamerican Shamanism from the University of California, Riverside. Her academic studies provide a solid foundation for her practical work in curanderismo.
Curanderismo Training: She has trained extensively with curanderos and curanderas in Mexico, learning traditional healing techniques and rituals that have been passed down through generations.
Professional Work
Author: Erika is the author of several books on curanderismo, where she shares her knowledge and insights into traditional Mesoamerican healing practices. Some of her notable books include:
"Curanderismo: Soul Retrieval"
"Curanderismo: The Art of Traditional Medicine in Mexico"
"Sacred Energies of the Sun and Moon: Shamanic Rites of Curanderismo"
Workshops and Lectures: She conducts workshops, lectures, and retreats to teach others about curanderismo. These sessions often include practical exercises, rituals, and meditative practices that help participants connect with their spiritual selves and the natural world.
Healing Practice: Erika Buenaflor offers one-on-one healing sessions, where she utilizes her knowledge of herbs, energy work, and spiritual rituals to help clients heal from various physical, emotional, and spiritual ailments.
Contributions to Curanderismo
Educational Outreach: Erika’s work has been instrumental in bringing the ancient practices of curanderismo to a wider audience. She bridges the gap between traditional and modern healing by making these ancient techniques accessible and relevant to contemporary life.
Public Speaking and Writing: Through her books, articles, and public speaking engagements, Erika has become a prominent voice in the field of curanderismo. Her efforts have helped preserve and revive the traditional healing practices of Mesoamerican cultures.
Personal Philosophy
Erika Buenaflor emphasizes the importance of balance, harmony, and connection with nature in her healing practices. She believes that true healing involves addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person, and her work reflects this holistic approach.
Online Presence
Website: Erika maintains a website where she shares information about her books, workshops, and healing services. It serves as a resource for those interested in learning more about curanderismo and connecting with Erika for personal healing sessions.
Social Media: She is active on social media platforms, where she engages with a broader audience, sharing insights, upcoming events, and educational content related to Mesoamerican healing practices.
Erika Buenaflor’s dedication to curanderismo and her ability to adapt these ancient practices for modern use make her a valuable mentor and an influential figure in the field of traditional healing. Her work continues to inspire and educate those seeking to deepen their understanding of Mesoamerican spiritual and healing traditions.