Beny Chans

In Haiti, a Beny Fèy (herbal bath) is more than just a way of washing the body. It is a spiritual practice, a way of cleansing what our eyes cannot always see.

In Vodou, leaves and plants hold an important place in healing and spiritual cleansing practices. They can be crushed, rubbed, soaked, or boiled to prepare a bath according to the person’s needs and the knowledge of the person preparing it.

Plants such as basil, orange leaves, lemongrass, asowosi, lougawou, bwa chandèl, and many others may be used, though the selection and combination can vary depending on the tradition, the lakou, and the purpose of the bath.

We often take herbal baths to help us release what weighs on us, seek protection, regain a sense of calm, find strength, or open new paths. But they are also moments of energy being passed through our hands and our skin. Knowledge is passed from one generation to the next, from our mothers, our grandmothers and elders, as well as Ougan and Manbo.

It is almost like allowing someone to wash the little hidden corners within you.

Printed as a giclée on fine art paper using archival inks, this piece preserves the depth of each color and detail, keeping the artwork’s spirit vivid and enduring over time.