"Curanderismo" is an experiential, hands-on convention of folk medicine that is passed down with care from a healer's hands and heart, in order to help those in need and to grow and sustain the next generation of traditional healers. It is the living practice of this tradition that preserves this ancient wisdom on every level.
A free one-day workshop, Traditional Mexican Medicine for the Family, will be held at UNM Continuing Education on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Local lore relates accounts of the Curanderos and the healing powers they possess. From curing common ailments without chemical medications, to curing "mal de ojo" (the evil eye) or "susto" (loss of spirit), Curanderos heal and strengthen the spirit of a traditional Hispanic society. Curanderismo is preserving the best of the past for the future. The course, taught by Arturo Ornelas, Eliseo “Cheo” Torres, and several healers from Mexico, preserves and celebrates the cultural legacy of the southwestern U.S. and our neighbors to the south.
Practitioners of Curanderismo can be men or women, and many choose to specialize in an area of the practice, not unlike a professional in the medical field. Most commonly, a Curandero may specialize as a "Yerbero" (herbalist), a "Sobador" (masseur), or a "Partera" (midwife).
The complementary workshop will provide an experiential introduction of Curanderismo concepts and practices. The one-day workshop is presented to introduce a new Continuing Education program for certification in Curanderismo, beginning in Spring 2005. No registration is necessary and there is no fee and no obligation. For more information call 277-6036.
Contact: Greg Johnston, (505) 277-1816