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Redheaded
Brujos |
| June
19, 2001- Santa Domingo |
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Not
more than a couple hundred yards from a major highway is
a strong community of indigenous people known as the Indios
Colorados.
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The 'Colored Indians' are famous for their brujos
and their red hair helmet/hats. At first glance the
headwear appears to be a cap of sorts but it is in
reality their own hair styled with the help of a red
pigment from a seed found in the area. |
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When
in Rome, sure, I had to try the style for myself.
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dye from seeds |
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| Shamanstic
tradition of the tribe is well known throughout the country
and people travel great distances to be treated in this
community for a variety of ailments. |
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I had no complaints in the health department, but
I was assured that a spiritual 'tune-up' was a good
reason for a session with a red-hatted healer. |
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I actually
got two different sessions, one vapor bath of boiled herbs
(very refreshing and relaxing) and one personalized visit
to the shamans alter. |
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The alter was covered with representatives of various
spirits, the most prominent being a large stone shaped
like a snakes head. |
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At
times during the session, herbs were chewed and spewed into
the air. I was asked to sample certain potions and spread
others on my skin. He talked to me in Spanish between the
numerous incantations that were in his native tongue. I
was spellbound by his intensity. It was fascinating.
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