In the Visayas region of the Philippines, including areas like Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor, the traditional ritual of burning herbs for cleansing and purification is commonly known as “palina.” This ritual/ritwal, also referred to as “pagtawas” or “pagtuyaw,” is deeply rooted in the ancient cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Visayan ancestors. Yes, this ancient practice holds profound significance as a means of spiritual purification and healing.
Our ritwal sa palina typically involves the careful selection and burning of specific herbs known for their cleansing, purifying, and protective properties. Among a few to name from the herbs that we will use are tanglad, sambong, lagundi, yerba buena, banaba, and bayabas leaves. Other herbs we brought back are especially from our time in Siquijor. Each herb is believed to carry potent energies capable of dispelling negative influences and restoring balance to the individual or space being cleansed.
During the palina ritual, the bundled herbs are ignited, releasing their aromatic smoke into the air. This smoke is then directed over the person or area undergoing purification, carrying with it the essence of the herbs’ healing properties. As the smoke permeates the surroundings, it is believed to cleanse away impurities and negativity, creating a sacred space conducive to spiritual well-being and renewal.
Accompanied by prayers, invocations, chants, and guided movements, the ritwal sa palina along with our gayuma for love, prosperity and blessings will altogether serve as a powerful invocation for blessings & divine assistance. By harnessing the natural energies of the earth and invoking spiritual guidance, individuals participating in the ritual seek to align themselves with positive forces and cultivate a sense of harmony and prosperity in their lives. In essence, our ritwal sa palina ug ang among gayuma embodies the deeply held belief of the Visayan people in the interconnectedness of the physical, spiritual, and natural worlds, offering a pathway to healing and spiritual renewal (emphasizing especially for the spring equinox and on the day of Jupiter.) Time to bloom and expand together, blessings be!
Last night was a beautiful and powerful #Palina #RitwalSaPalina #PalinaRitual for cleansing and healing along with our Gayuma for love, abundance and blessings. We also integrated release water, breath-work, stretches, movement, and our Dalangpan prayers of the four elements which is also represented in the four directions.)
Going into the Spring and Holy Week with higher vibes!!
(The “Dalangpan” is a Visayan indigenous concept that embodies interconnectedness, balance, and harmony with nature. It is a holistic worldview that recognizes the relationships between all living beings, the environment, and the spiritual realm. In Visayan culture, the Dalangpan guides understanding of the world, emphasizing respect for nature, community, and the spiritual dimensions of existence. It serves as a guiding principle for sustainable living and maintaining harmony within the ecosystem.)
