The process of mummification describes how by which the skin and flesh of a deceased person can be preserved. This preservation can happen through natural means or be done intentionally by humans. Natural mummification happens under specific conditions, such as freezing temperatures, acidic environments, or arid conditions. A notable type of intentional mummification originated in ancient Egypt, where corpses were covered in bandages to preserve their bodies and preserve the body for the afterlife.
Preserved bodies, whether human or animal, have been found all over the globe, often due to natural preservation or ritualistic preservation. Throughout Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been uncovered, a significant number being cats. The method of mummification in ancient Egypt was rich in ritual. They removed the brain using a hook through the nasal cavity, and extracted most internal organs, leaving only the heart. This was because Egyptians believed the heart was crucial for the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony. The other organs were put into canopic jars, which were included in the burial.
Today, mummification is being used differently in certain BDSM subcultures. Here, the idea of mummifying is used in a role-playing context, where one person, referred to as the "slave," is completely wrapped by another, the "master." Only the nostrils are left exposed to allow for air. The materials used for this wrapping can include duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. While the practice retains the term mummification, its purpose in BDSM is focused on controlling the body and not about preservation.
**To conclude**
Mummification has transformed from its origins in early death rituals to present-day practices in subcultures like BDSM. Though its ancient goal was about preserving the body for eternity, today's version focuses on power dynamics. Even though they are different, both forms of mummification reflect a deep human interest in control, whether controlling life or death or in controlling others.