Traditional medicine is experiencing a resurgence in San Cristóbal. The Museum of Mayan Medicine is dedicated to collecting and recording techniques of indigenous healers in the highlands around the area. We watched a fascinating video on traditional childbirth as practiced in the region.
This museum display shows the father's involvement; he supports the mother while the midwife guides the delivery from behind.
The museum highlighted a campaign to discourage the drinking of Coca Cola but it is an uphill battle considering how intertwined it is in local culture.
The most interesting part for me was the small building behind the museum where medicines are concocted and people can meet with a curer and buy those medicines. They have an international
volunteer program if you are interested.
We also visited the office and home of Dr.
Sergio Castro, an incredible humanitarian who was trained as a veterinarian and sent from his home in northern Mexico to complete volunteer work in Chiapas 45 years ago. He has since dedicated his life to helping the indigenous populations of Chiapas. Such a beautiful man.
In gratitude, and in lieu of money, many patients have given him their exquisite traditional dress which he has displayed in his home. We were fortunate to find him there.
He says that right now their most pressing medical problems are burn injuries and
foot injuries related to diabetes since they walk so much.
Next: Shopping!
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