Filipino Superstitions about Health

Christian Lee D. Tompong

Superstitions that cling to ancient beliefs and rituals are still prevalent in Filipino culture today. Some are funny, such as presenting pansit noodle meals at birthday parties as a symbol of longevity, while others are more serious, such as the belief that faith-healers can cure particular conditions. What is the origin of these superstitions?

The majority of early Filipinos believed in many gods, creatures, and spirits. They use a variety of ceremonies, sacrifices, and activities to please them. Religious beliefs and practices have transitioned from animism to Christianity as a result of the Philippines' lengthy history of colonization. The impact of Filipino superstitions on everyday life, stretching from fortune, love, and marriage to family, disease, and death, is still felt when animism and Christianity are combined. Filipinos, particularly the elderly, have a tendency to cope with disease by depending on family and friends' guidance as well as faith in God. Experience a complete recovery from disease is typically seen as personally witnessing a miracle, which has a significant impact on Filipinos' perceptions of healthcare. It is critical to dispel the most frequent superstitions that many people still believe in order to do so.

What are the most frequent health beliefs in the Philippines?

Place a moist, saliva-soaked thread on the forehead to relieve a hiccup. According to a Smart Parenting poll, 5 out of 10 parents continue to use this pamahiin or superstition to help their children get over their problems. There is, however, no scientific evidence to back this claim. Hiccups can be caused by a number of things, including swallowing air and eating or drinking too much or too quickly. You can attempt the following solutions instead of using a thread: bite on a piece of lemon, slowly sip ice-cold water while gently pressing your nose as you swallow, or hold your breath for a short time. By avoiding fizzy beverages, eating slowly, and eating smaller meals, you can avoid it completely. When you initially meet a baby for the first time, you may make the baby feel anxious or make the baby cry incessantly, which is known as "na-usog," which means "na-usog." Either by greeting the newborn or simply being extremely fond of him or her while meeting him for the first time, this believe in usog might make an infant feel uncomfortable.

Many pre-colonial illogical ideas still persist today and continue to influence Filipinos' attitudes, decisions, values, and behaviors. Despite the fact that pamahiins appear to be harmless at first appearance, they frequently interfere with how Filipinos deal with illnesses and mental health concerns.

Don't let your judgment be clouded by superstitions. Make your physical well-being a priority by seeing a doctor on a regular basis and getting frequent checks as needed.

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The author is Teacher I at Atlu-Bola High School