"Ask the Spirits" by Po Lai Yau
I’ve heard of countless stories about spirits’ powerful influence on one’s health in many Asian cultures. These stories are absolutely amazing. For instance, a person who gets a fever or whose facial muscles become partially paralyzed would go to a spiritual guide rather than a doctor. These spiritual guides can always come up with some “logical” explanations. For example, you have bumped into some spirit on the street and offended “it”. Or, you have said something the spirit didn’t like, so you’re being punished. These individuals would not consider the possible physiological or neurological origin of their conditions, since it feels better to externalize the cause of a health problem...
Response:
I think there are many cultures who believe in the power of the supernatural over our health and bodies. I have heard stories myself about this power, particularly from Caribbean sources, but also from Central American and South American sources as well. My favorite one (and the most well-known one) is "possession": when a spirit "inhabits" the body, which is said to cause delirium, as well as epileptic and flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, heavy night sweats). There are many more that I can recount, but that would take up more than a few pages.
For those who have access to medical/scientific knowledge, this seems primitive. However, I think these beliefs still exist because there is a personal need for cultural preservation (such beliefs and practices are part of old traditions passed on from generations ago). Another reason may be just what you suggested: that it seems much easier for the afflicted to acknowledge that there is something (a spirit) that just needs to be pacified or let out of his or her body in order to treat the disease (externalizing the cause of the problem) as opposed to recognizing the neurological or physiological cause of a condition that possibly may never be cured or treated without major physical consequences.
I guess the question is, if, let's say, that person is a loved one, how would you seek help for him or her, especially if you know that the cause has nothing to do with spirits (and if you know that he or she is actively trying to avoid facing the truth about his or her body)?
Comments (1)
I think belief has a lot to do with getting better. People who believe their ailments are the result of some "spirit," may actually get better by having an exorcism. Especially if it is mind over matter. I think that the best thing that you can do with a family member who believes spirits are making them ill is go with it. I mean, take them to a doctor and see what is going on, but maybe indulge them a little. Something like lighting some sage may actually make them feel better.
Posted by Jessica | November 12, 2007 12:50 PM
Posted on November 12, 2007 12:50