The History and Transformation of Mummification From Ancient Traditions to Contemporary Methods

The History and Transformation of Mummification From Ancient Traditions to Contemporary Methods

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The process of mummification refers to the method in which the skin and flesh of a dead body are preserved. This preservation can occur naturally or be performed through human intervention. Natural mummification happens under specific conditions, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or arid conditions. One of the most famous forms of intentional mummification originated in Egyptian civilization, where the dead were encased in bandages to prevent decay and keep the body for the afterlife.

Mummified remains, both human and animal, have been unearthed on every continent, often due to natural preservation or cultural practices. In Egypt, in excess of a million mummified animals have been found, including a large number of cats. The process of Egyptian mummification was rich in ritual. They removed the brain through the nose, and took out most of the body's organs, keeping only the heart inside the body. This was because the heart was central to the ceremony in the afterlife. All other organs were placed in canopic jars, which were included in the burial.

In contemporary practices, mummification is being used differently in certain BDSM communities. Here, the idea of mummifying is part of role-playing scenarios, where one person, known as the "slave," is wrapped tightly by another, the "master." Only the nostrils are left exposed to ensure oxygen flow. The materials used for this wrapping vary from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Although this practice retains the term mummification, in the BDSM context is primarily about controlling the body and not about preserving the body.

**In summary**

Mummification has undergone vast changes from its origins in early death rituals to modern-day practices within BDSM subcultures. Though its ancient goal was about preserving the body for the journey to the next life, the contemporary practice focuses on power dynamics. Though these two forms differ, both forms of mummification reveal a fascination with control, whether controlling life or death or within social relationships.