Because Santeria (Regla de Ocha) is a syncretic religion blending West African Yoruba beliefs with Roman Catholicism, it views physical, emotional, and spiritual health as deeply interconnected.
Through these systems, the priest determines if the person's symptoms are caused by: : A state of balance and good fortune.
: In severe cases where a person's life is in danger or their calling is absolute, the only "cure" for their symptoms is to be fully initiated as a priest or priestess (making the saint). symptoms-of-santeria
: Used by Santeros, 16 cowrie shells are cast to determine which Orisha is speaking and what advice they are offering. The Diagnosis
: This can range from fruit, candles, and flowers to specific cooked meals offered to the Orisha responsible for the person's head. Because Santeria (Regla de Ocha) is a syncretic
: Dreaming frequently of ancestors, specific colors, or powerful natural elements like the ocean (associated with Yemaya) or lightning (associated with Chango).
: Feeling uncharacteristically anxious, angry, or drawn to specific spiritual practices and altars without prior experience. : Used by Santeros, 16 cowrie shells are
In Santeria, when a person is experiencing life turmoil, it is rarely viewed as mere coincidence. Instead, specific "symptoms" indicate that the spirits or Orishas are trying to get the person's attention.