Temazcal:
Temazcal ceremony in La Yerbabuena
Time:
4 to 5 hours
Includes: Temazcal ceremony, fresh fruit drinks, lunch
Exertion level: Minimal, but must be able to withstand high temperatures
Preparation: Wear light cotton shorts and top; bring change of
clothing and towel
We drive to
the tiny hamlet of La Yerbabuena, the town closest to the Volcán
de Fuego. Our destination is the home of Don Chimino and Doña
Reina, two noted temazcaleros or shamans, who will lead us through
a cathartic cycle in their temazcal. We will experience
the therapeutic effects of the temazcal in an atmosphere
that helps us transcend for a while the frantic pursuits and pressures
of modern life.
Aztecs, Mayans
and other Mesoamerican cultures use the temazcal to enter
into a trance state in which, through purification and visions,
they commune with their ancestors and deities. Regardless of your
religious beliefs, this highly praised temazcal ceremony is cleansing
and spiritually uplifting.
A temazcal
is an igloo-shaped adobe hut set into the ground. In the middle
of the hut is a fire ring, into which the temazcalero
drops heated volcanic rocks. The rocks are splashed with herb-infused
water to form dense steam. The combination of heat, pitch dark,
and steam create a strikingly intimate environment that fosters
liberating and healing communication.
The word temazcal
comes from the Náhuatl, temaz, to bathe,
and calli, house. The interior of the hut represents
the womb of tonanzí, or Mother Earth. The darkness
inside denotes our ignorance, the stones symbolize creation, and
the herbal steam is the creative force. The ceremony is divided
into four sessions, each dedicated to one of the four elements
(Earth, Air, Fire and Water), and emphasizing family, friendship,
peace and healing.
After partaking
in this ceremony, which lasts about two hours, we will enjoy a
simple lunch of tortillas, beans, cheese, and a fresh fruit drink
in Doña Reina’s rustic and breezy dining room.
