Mosaic for Becoming a Woman Healer: Origins, Knowledges and Practices from Situated Knowledge

Abstract

Women healers throughout history have cultivated knowledge about life-cycles, use of plants and connection with the spiritual world as ways of survival. However, science and the church, protected by the patriarchy, have discredited and persecuted them as witches and superstitious. Despite this, they continue to resist others’ power over their bodies, their emotions and their own knowledge. Belisa is one of these women who maintains her healing practice in the face of multiple forms of violence. She holds a firm belief that forgiveness and awareness are the paths to heal herself and others. Her life invites reflection on epistemic justice.