The Art and Evolution of Mummification From Historical Rituals to Modern-Day Practices

The Art and Evolution of Mummification From Historical Rituals to Modern-Day Practices

Blog Article

The process of mummification refers to the method by which the skin and flesh of a deceased person can remain intact. This process of preservation can occur naturally or be carried out by humans. Natural mummification happens when exposed to particular environments, such as extreme cold, acidic environments, or dry environments. One of the most famous forms of intentional mummification comes from Egyptian civilization, where corpses were encased in bandages to preserve their bodies and preserve the body for the afterlife.

Preserved bodies, whether human or animal, have been found all over the globe, often resulting from natural preservation or cultural practices. In Egypt, more than a million animal mummies have been found, a significant number being cats. The method of mummification in ancient Egypt was very symbolic. They removed the brain through the nose, and extracted most internal organs, leaving only the heart. This was because the heart was crucial for the afterlife rituals. All other organs were stored in canopic jars, which were included in the burial.

In contemporary practices, mummification has evolved into a new practice in certain BDSM practices. Here, the practice of wrapping the body is part of role-playing scenarios, where one person, known as the "slave," is completely wrapped by another, the "master." Breathing is allowed through exposed nostrils to allow for air. The materials used for this wrapping vary from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Though the activity retains the term mummification, in the BDSM context is focused on controlling the body rather than maintaining the body's condition.

**To conclude**

Mummification has transformed from its origins in early death rituals to modern-day practices in alternative lifestyles. While the traditional purpose focused on preserving the body for eternity, today's version focuses on power dynamics. Despite the differences, both forms of mummification demonstrate a shared human interest in mastery, whether over death or through interpersonal dynamics.