Balinese Balian Healers: Understanding Traditional Practises vs Western Wellness
The Balinese take a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, with traditional beliefs being deeply rooted in the philosophy that a balance must be maintained between the mind, body, spirit and environment, otherwise a person's health and wellbeing may be compromised.
Western medicine typically focuses on managing the symptoms that a person presents with, but Balinese healers, otherwise known as Balians, look for the root cause of the illness. The root cause of any illness is believed to be an imbalance between one or more of the three key elements: harmony with the divine, harmony among people, and harmony with nature.
The Balinese believe that the physical world (Sekala) and the spiritual world (Niskala) are intertwined and must be in balance with each other for perfect harmony, and any sickness is viewed as a result of unbalanced energy or spiritual disruption. Therefore, Balians will look at the person as a whole, treating the mind, body and spirit in order to restore balance and wellbeing. This ancient wisdom is woven into the fabric of Soulshine Bali's approach to healing, where guests are invited to experience the island's transformative energy in a deeply personal and supported way.
The Role of the Balian (Traditional Healer) in Balinese Society
The Balian plays a vital role in Balinese society and is revered as the custodian of ancient knowledge and culture. They act as a bridge between the physical world (Sekala) and the unseen, spiritual world (Niskala) and are often the first point of care for locals.
The Balinese philosophy of ensuring a balanced existence between people, the environment and the spirit world shapes daily life, and whilst a Balinese will treat the physical ailments a person presents with, they may also treat mental disturbances that could be caused by ancestral curses or black magic.
Balians are highly respected figures in Balinese Hinduism, and are seen as receiving their 'gift' through divine blessing, often commanding a status similar to that of a priest.
Types of Balinese Healers (Usada for Herbal Remedies, Ketaksun for Mediumship)
In Bali, sickness is often viewed as a result of an improper action, or a disruption in the spiritual world, and healing can involve both the seen (medicinal herbs) and the unseen (spiritual energy). Different healing methods may include physical treatments such as physical manipulation or deep tissue massage, and spiritual healing through meditation, mediums or magical objects.
Usada — a traditional medical healer. They study ancient, sacred texts, and use herbs, spices, massage and sometimes amulets to treat patients. They focus on specific ailments like bone issues, physical or chronic issues and mental illness.
Ketaksun — a spirit channeler or medium. They focus on the spiritual cause of an ailment and act as a medium between the patient and the divine. They go into a trance to channel spirits and seek guidance on the root cause of a problem, and can often help where other treatments have failed.
Encountering these traditional healing arts is one of the most profound aspects of our Bali spiritual retreats, where guests are guided through ceremonies and healing experiences that reflect the authentic Balinese way of life.
What Happens During a Healing Session (Offerings, Chanting, Energy Work)
Healing sessions often begin with an offering (Canang Sari) to honour ancestors and spirits, to show gratitude and request a healing. You may be led through a short, silent prayer and checked to identify any spiritual or physical blockages.
Chanting or sound healing (gongs, bells) may be used to cleanse negative energy and facilitate deep relaxation, and the Balian may use hands-on techniques (similar to Reiki, or pressure point massage) or apply herbal pastes to your skin.
Water purification often closes a session, with holy water poured over your head or body to cleanse any impurities. The Balian may discuss what they felt or observed, and recommend herbal medicines.
It is respectful to dress modestly and not point your feet at the healer, and remember that it is not a spa treatment but a genuine healing session.
If you are ready to experience Balinese healing for yourself, the Soulful Bali retreat package includes a Balinese priest purification ceremony alongside a full programme of wellness, sound healing and cultural immersion.
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