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 is the process through which the tissues of a deceased person can remain intact. This preservation can happen through natural means or be done intentionally by humans. Bodies are naturally preserved when exposed to particular environments, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or arid conditions. One well-known example of intentional mummification is from Egyptian civilization, where the deceased were wrapped in bandages to prevent decay and maintain the corpse for the next world.

Mummified remains, both human and animal, have been discovered all over the globe, often due to natural preservation or cultural practices. Throughout Egypt, more than a million animal mummies have been uncovered, many of them cats. The method of mummification in ancient Egypt was rich in ritual. They removed the brain through the nose, and took out most of the body's organs, leaving only the heart. This was because the heart was central to the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony. The removed organs were stored in canopic jars, which were laid to rest with the body.

In modern times, mummification has evolved into a new practice as part of certain BDSM practices. Here, the idea of mummifying has become a form of role-play, where one person, known as the "slave," is bound tightly by another, the "master." Breathing is allowed through exposed nostrils for breathing. The wrapping materials range from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Though the activity retains the term mummification, its purpose in BDSM is focused on controlling the body rather than preservation.

**To conclude**

Mummification has transformed from its origins in early death rituals to modern-day practices within BDSM subcultures. Although its original intention was about preserving the body for the afterlife, the modern interpretation focuses on power dynamics. Though these two forms differ, both forms of mummification reflect a deep human interest in control, whether it is over death or in controlling others.