Dread Care: Rastaman Meditation

Island cactus

With the waves gently lapping the shore and the warm sand massaging his earthen feet with every solid step taken, the Rastaman walks amongst the rough black rocks lining the right side of the bay.

He selects a large flat rock close to shore, takes off the red, green and gold embroidered burlap sac slung around his chest then proceeds to rests his tools upon the rock; a calabash gourd carved into a bowl, a smooth oblong shaped rock along with a knife. Next he pulls out a large plump piece of healthy green aloe wrapped in cheesecloth. Gently, with large strong chestnut brown hands, he unwraps the aloe. With great focus he removes the prickle sides of the stalk then removes the smooth outer layers making sure to leave as much as possible of the darker color gel that rest next to the skin. This pungent smelling outer layer is where the riches of the plant lie. The bitter taste suggests the highest healing quality. He cuts the pieces of gel into the calabash bowl and begins to crush it with the rock.

The rhythm of the waves coincides with the rhythm of the rock crushing the gel into a velvety cream. He then takes the cheesecloth and irons it wide to the warmth of the rock. The medicinal liquid is placed in the middle then wrapped like a cheese ball. With a firm grip the gel is pressed through the cloth back into the bowl. This filtered aloe is applied to the dreads, methodically covering all the dreads and the scalp. This is the epitome of dread shampoo; it doesn’t just clean, it gives the roots strength. The chunks of aloe left in the cloth can be massaged into the feet or any other part of the body, drawing toxins out, allowing the powerful nutrients to be absorbed.

Over an hour later, he swims out into the sea, springs out of the water like a lion, and shakes his mane; aloe easily flying in all directions. He climbs back on the rock to gather his things, letting the sun and breeze dry his roots, never rubbing with a towel so as not to ‘break de roots’.

This is a Rastaman meditation. This whole process brings your mind to one focus. It is a healing flow with nature; for the mind, body and soul.