Bali is unlike any other beach destination. It is not only the food or the warmth of the people that set it apart, but the mysticism that envelopes this region. Traditional healers of Bali are one of the island’s biggest attractions.
Bali & Mysticism
Nothing seems too outworldish here. Locals believe in spirits, healers, chants and symbolism, often incorporating these into their everyday lives. It is believed that spirits, both good and bad, abound on this island of the gods, and they can wreak havoc on one’s physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Everything from a broken bone to a broken heart can invoke a visit to one of more than 8,000 healers practising in Bali.
You may have read about the inexplicable powers of Bali’s traditional healers, or caught a glimpse of traditional Balinese healing when it shot to fame with the Hollywood film, Eat Pray Love. In fact, the late Ubud Balian and priest, Pak Ketut Liyer became an instant rock star of the alternative medicine scene and his home a major tourist destination when the movie was released.
Pak Ketut Liyer
Local Beliefs
But healers are not just a tourist tick mark. They are an integral part of the Balinese way of life and have been since centuries.
Healers reject being called a Balian as it’s considered to be too conceited for their spiritual calling. One may become a healer as a result of an illness or inherit it through an ancient family line. There is no one-size-fits-all here. Balian healers specialise in specific areas such as heart problems, migraine headaches, sports injuries or the removal of spells.
The Four Types of Balian Healers
Ketakson: Usually female. Will channel between the client and God, calling on the spirit of a dead person for guidance, and passing on the information.
Pica: A medium and not a formal student of traditional medicine, massage or magic. There are stories of physical objects – such as the Balinese dagger called a kris – appearing out of thin air during a session with a Pica.
Usada: Receives divine knowledge during a severe illness. This leads them to study the Lontars – ancient, sacred texts written on bamboo. They are a master’s apprentice while studying anatomy, ethics, traditional herbs, massage, magic, meditation, yoga, and tantra among many subjects. Black and white magic are widely practised in Bali.
Balian: Combines all of the above. During a session, the healer may appear mildly psychotic, hearing voices and having visions as the wisdom enters their body.
Etiquettes and Customs
Curious about these mystic healers? You don’t need to be a local to visit them. Experience a visit to a Balian yourself. If you want greater insight, you may even study for a few days under the guidance of an expert. Etiquette must be observed, so dress modestly. Be patient while waiting since locals with real illnesses will also be in queue. Bring an offering of money, but never pass cash directly to the healer. Give it to an assistant with your right hand. And always take a translator along.
Being Treated
Expect to be treated in full view of the household and waiting clients who will watch avidly. A fire may be created, a potion brewed, or healing oils applied. Patterns could be drawn on your body or a painful deep tissue massage delivered. Patients may be poked with sharp sticks too. Healers often create a bespoke blend of herbs. Instead of passing it to their patient to devour, they pop the lot into their mouth to chew and suck, and then spit gobs of the mulch onto the patients’ body – face included. Try not to flinch or make facial expressions.
If you’re looking for a cure to an ailment, more than one visit to a Balian may be required. Allow yourself time for this ancient treatment, and don’t try to plug it into a packed day, or on the way to the airport. The Elite Concierge can help arrange your trip, just reach out to them and let them know of your wishes.
Secure one of our villas in Bali to complete your enchanting holiday. Visit a healer who has been referred by the Villa Manager or the Elite Concierge, to avoid bogus operators. And if you do choose to walk down this mystic path, please do so with the respect any ancient wisdom deserves.
