The month of May is considered by many to be a special month where the arrival of the summer solstice is celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere and the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. This month, one of the most popular traditions in Latin America is the collection of the “First Rainwater of May”, an act full of mysticism and superstition.
First Rain of May: Tradition and Superstition in Latin America
Legend has it that the first rain in the month of May can purify the body and soul eliminate wrinkles and rejuvenate the spirit. Many people go to fields and gardens to collect water with their bare hands and then pass it over their faces as waste.
But not only is May water used as a method of cleansing and rejuvenation, it is believed to have healing properties. According to ancient beliefs, the first rain in May is medicinal and can be used to treat certain ailments and health problems.
That’s why many people pack and store it all year round, to keep it handy in case of need.
May water harvesting is a deep-seated tradition in rural areas of Latin America where people continue to believe in its magical and healing power. It is common to see containers placed in the alleys of houses or in the pipes that hang from the ceiling waiting for the rain to arrive.
But beyond its healing properties, May water is used as a protective amulet. Some people keep it in bottles and use it to solve health problems or to improve their luck in love and work.
Agua de Mayo is an ancient tradition that is still alive in Latin America and that demonstrates the importance of connecting with nature and popular beliefs. Although it may seem like a superstitious act, collecting water in May is actually an act of faith and respect for nature and its cycles.
May Water: An Esoteric Tool in Latin America
Among the most popular beliefs is the use of May water as a natural parasiticide capable of combating stomach cramps and making hair grow.
This ancient tradition has been kept alive in many rural areas of Latin America where parents and grandparents usually carry bottles of the liquid obtained from the first rain, so that they can be blessed by the father of the region and then used in religious rites such as baptisms and novenaries.
But not only is May water used for religious purposes but it is also believed that it can be used as a method of protection against evil spirits. It is common to spray possessed people with May water, as an act of exorcism or to anoint those who seek to improve their luck in love and work.
Although this tradition has been lost in urban centers, it is still alive in many fields, mainly in the southwest and northeast of Latin America. The connection with nature and popular beliefs is still an important part of the lives of many people in the region.
In short, May water is an esoteric tool that demonstrates the importance of maintaining our roots and beliefs and of maintaining a harmonious connection with nature and its cycles.
