The process of mummification describes how by which the tissues of a corpse can be preserved. This preservation may happen naturally or be carried out by humans. Natural mummification happens in certain environments, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or dry environments. A notable type of intentional mummification is from Egyptian civilization, where corpses were encased in bandages to stop decomposition and maintain the corpse for the afterlife.
Mummies, both human and animal, have been found on every continent, often due to natural preservation or ritualistic preservation. In Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been found, many of them cats. The process of Egyptian mummification was highly ceremonial. The brain was removed via the nostrils, and extracted most internal organs, keeping only the heart inside the body. This was due to the belief that the heart was central to the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony. The removed organs were placed in canopic jars, which were buried with the mummy.
Today, mummification has taken on a new form in certain BDSM practices. Here, the idea of mummifying has become a form of role-play, 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 wrapping materials range from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Though the activity retains the term mummification, its purpose in BDSM is focused on controlling the body and not about preservation.
**Conclusion**
Mummification has evolved significantly from its origins in ancient Egyptian death practices to present-day practices in subcultures like BDSM. Though its ancient goal was about preserving the body for the journey to the next life, the modern interpretation focuses on power dynamics. Even though they are different, both forms of mummification demonstrate a shared human interest in mastery, whether over death or within social relationships.