3 Traditional Indonesian healing tools that helped

As a modern women in this fast-paced world it's easy to lose sight of who we are and become disconnected from our roots. Diving into traditional healing methods that our ancestors used, I found ways to reconnect with myself and find a sense of home within. 

These methods have been passed down through generations and are still practiced today. Here are 3 tools that have helped:

1. NAFAS ~ BREATHWORK
   A very powerful and accessible form of traditional Indonesian healing is the practice of pernapasan, or breathwork. This practice involves deep breathing exercises, coming from right underneath your belly button. It can help to ground your energy, strengthen your tenaga dalam (inner strength), or help you process emotions and trauma. They often incorporate specific movements to help directing your energy. By focusing on your breath and directing your energy, you can release tension and achieve a sense of calm and clarity.
   
   
   
2. JAMU ~ TRADITIONAL HERBAL MEDICINE
   Another traditional Indonesian healing method is the use of herbal medicine, specifically a type called jamu. Jamu is a blend of herbs, roots, and spices that are believed to have healing properties. Many Indonesians drink jamu as a daily health tonic, and it's also used to treat various ailments. Jamu gendong are the medicine women in the villages who carry a basket of bottles and cups on their shoulders. Depending on your illness or needs, they will mix a herbal medicine drink for you. You can also create your own blends at home, according to jamu recipes which often contain ingredients like turmeric, ginger, lemongrass and tamarind.
   
   
   
3. HONOURING YOUR ANCESTORS
   One very precious way to connect with your roots and find a sense of home is to honour your ancestors. In Indonesian spirituality, it's believed that our ancestors continue to guide and protect us after their passing. By bringing offerings and asking for their guidance, we can strengthen our connection with them and draw on their wisdom and energy. This practice can be as simple as lighting a candle or incense in honour of your ancestors, or as elaborate as creating a full altar and performing a ceremony. 

By exploring traditional healing methods we can tap into the ancient wisdom and energy of our ancestors and our roots.  So take a deep breath, brew up some jamu, and connect with the energy of your ancestors.