La Sobadora

Chances are, regardless of lineage and social class, a Mexican family will have a sobadora or sobador they blindly trust and use in conjunction with the advice of their Western trained family doctor.

Although some, might be embarrassed to admit they have one. Which might be a residue from our days as colonized people, when our traditional healers were punished and or ostracized alongside their patients for practicing their craft. To call a sobador or sobadora by their English translated name, which would literally mean "masseur or masseuse" depending on their gender, would be an understatement. They represent so much more. These "alternative healers" are spiritual and mental counselors, friends, coaches, dietitians, herbalist, chiropractors and much more.

Many of the legitimate ones, preserve our people's generational healing wisdom. Today, I took my Mom to see her trusted Sobadora, who works in conjunction with her "regular" doctor to keep her healthy, lively and energetic. After our visit, she sent us over to the herb store. I wish I could describe the scent inside, it is intoxicating and delicious.
In the store, one can find a mixture of beliefs, realities and dreams alongside very practical tangible items. #mestizoculture #healinghands #healingherbs #guardiansofourtresures