Bridget Mabanda
Mambokadzi Bath and Body, a Harare-based organisation that promotes the physical and psychological well-being of women, has organised an Art of Bathing Chinamwali Festival at which Diana ‘Mangwenya’ Samukange will be the performing musician on December 17.
Coordinators of the event in a statement said Chinamwali is about teaching women about their bodies, their interaction with men as well as managing their homes.
They said the festival is being conducted to fulfil the duties aunts as modernisation and migration have broken down the extended family structure.
“This is why for the past five years Mambokadzi Bath and Body, through its sister brand Mushamukadzi, has stepped in to fill the void left by our aunts.
“Together we will cover female anatomy, sexuality, hygiene, art of bathing, interpersonal relationships, problem solving skills, breaking back, sex positions, receiving and giving pleasure, affection, intimacy gender roles, sexual communication, safer sex practices and decision making,” they said.
Chinamwali is a coming of age rite for girls among some southern African ethnic groups. The traditional custom was centered on teaching women the art of sex in preparation for marriage.
Research refers to the aunt-niece relationship as “quasi-parenthood,” in that though an aunt may not be the mother, she still plays a role in raising and shaping the life of her niece. In this case aunts serve as safety nets, comforters, protectors and supporters.
Mambokadzi Bath and Body said their Chinamwali class is rooted in the understanding that sexual energy is the creative life force at its most elemental.
The Art of Bathing and Chinamwali Festival is an event that brings together some of the most diligent, motivated and unforgettable women and it provides inspiration and a beautiful space for diverse women to showcase their wellness and beauty products, work, art and services.
It gives an extraordinary and life-changing experience to both traders and buyers, visitors and residents.
“This unique festival has no spectators. Everyone is a participant. The Chinamwali class provides insightful instruction that will empower you as a sexual and sexually actualized woman no matter what your current experience of sex is,” the organisers added.
“A bath is seen as luxury by most, but in an era when the saying ‘health is wealth’, looking after our bodies from top-to-toe has moved up the priority list. Body care is on the rise.
“The origins of bathing dates back to the rite of passage performed by our grandmothers at our time of birth. This is the first ceremony we experience as we enter into this world.
“Throughout life, this habit continues for various reasons as we grow and it gains new value according to custom, traditional practices and purpose ranging from spiritual, hygiene, beauty, recreational, rehabilitation to hydrotherapy bathes,” the organisation further stated.
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