There are many timeless adages about the human body. Eyes are the windows to the soul. When the mind is unwell, the whole body suffers. Cold hands, warm heart. These expressions grant insight into how one aspect of the body can influence the rest. However, the Western world is relatively reserved when it comes to the value of the belly button in our overall health. Clinically known as the umbilicus, the belly button is the first scar most humans receive, a visible reminder of the life-giving connection we shared with our mother. Traditional healing has long recognized the value of caring for this often-ignored part of the body, and Doris Gföllner directs attention to health and well-being via the navel by delving into the practice of Nabhi Chikitsa. This holistic Ayurvedic treatment involves massaging high-quality oils, both base and essential, into the belly button. Each oil addresses different ailments, ranging from muscle cramps to heart disease. A quick explanation of the roots of the ancient practice is followed by lists that link each specific oil to a malady that it can address. Finally, an assortment of international websites concentrated on holistic practices are included for reference.
Health and happiness are closely intertwined, so we have every reason to look out for our bodies. This austere reference helps readers navigate an aspect of wellness that isn’t difficult to implement. Everyone passes down trusted home remedies, ideas as common as ginger for an upset stomach or honey for a sore throat, and these belly button treatments fall into that category of folk medicine. However, little effort is made to convince unfamiliar or skeptical readers of the efficacy of this traditional practice. After a brief introduction to the concept, the bulk of the text details how base oils are derived and provides an overview of essential oils and their therapeutic uses. A lengthy chart then recaps each oil’s usefulness compared to a long list of ailments, a section that largely repeats what was already presented in a different format. While this guide is a good reference on essential oils, realistically, the information could be condensed into little more than a pamphlet and still be just as effective. If you’re a fan of traditional medicine or are looking for a fresh take on overall health, you’ll appreciate the concept behind The Miracle Belly Button.
