Intimacy, often perceived as mere physical or emotional closeness, is in fact shaped by a multitude of factors. In African culture, people in relationships strive to fulfill their own emotional needs, as well as those of their partners. In fact, intimacy is not only biological, but also defined by the social and cultural context, rich in symbols, rituals and sensual practices that celebrate identity. In some black cultures, a diversity of sexual expressions is recognized and valued. Sexuality is associated with well-being, healing and the exercise of power. Discover in the following lines the traditional sensual practices and rituals that enrich intimate relationships in black culture.
Kunyaza and gukuna: fountain women
Kunyaza or Kachabali is a practice that originated in Rwanda. This sexual practice consists in triggering multiple orgasms in women. It’s not exclusively about penetration, but rather about using the penis and staying outside to stimulate the woman’s clitoris. According to an old legend from the land of a thousand hills, the practice originated with a queen frustrated by the absence of her husband, who was away at war. She therefore ordered a slave to satisfy her. Afraid of being killed, the slave made love to her while trembling, and this is said to have created quite pleasant vibrations in the queen, who subsequently gave birth to the river as far as Lake Kivu.
Kunyaza is a Rwandan tradition considered a sign of happiness for couples. But this practice conceals another, called gukuna. This involves stretching the vagina’s labia minora to increase the erogenous zone and facilitate the practice of Kunyaza, handed down from generation to generation. In short, it’s a way for women toobtain pleasure.
The dances
Dance is a set of movements that provide access to an extraordinary experience, both intimate and shared. Take Kizomba, for example, a wild tango or sensual partner dance from Angola. It has become very popular worldwide in recent years. In practice, it demands synergy and connection, which can help to strengthen or create real intimacy in couples. To dance Kizomba is to immerse oneself in an experience where the boundaries of personal space become blurred. Through the embrace, an action where thighs, chest and abdomen meet, a deep connection is discovered.
In addition to Kizomba, there’s Mapouka, a traditional dance from the Ivory Coast in West Africa. With its lascivious poses and highly subjective sequences, Mapouka unleashes passions. Some see it as proof of the dynamism of African culture, while others denounce its pornographic nature. Originating in a village on the banks of the Ivorian lagoons called Nigui Saff, in 1988, Mapouka’s particularity lies in the blocking of the entire body, with the exception of the gluteal muscles. In other words, the dance is characterized by rhythmic, sensual movements of the hips and buttocks. It is often linked to the celebration of femininity and sensuality in Ivorian culture.
Perfumes and incense
Incense is an aromatic product extracted from trees and burned to spread a fragrant smoke throughout a room. It was originally used in religious rituals to purify the air and create an environment conducive to meditation. But for many years now, new forms of perfume and incense have been on the market to help improve libido. In Senegal, for example, or in many West African countries, women are fond of these products. As you’ll have gathered, their aim is not to eliminate unpleasant odors, but toincrease sexual desire. Stores dedicated to this type of product in a city like Dakar are well-stocked, with the following departments:
- nemmali (finish killing) ;
- dadjima (push me in);
- kumay Teul (make me bounce);
- tojj Xuur (crush my balls).
These names indicate a specific action for each incense. In addition to fragrant fumes, in some black cultures women perform fellatio or cunnilingus using traditional leaves or mentholated candies. The specific purpose of these products is to provoke strong sensations. One example is menthol concentrate, commonly known as “mint crystals”, which women can put in their mouths a few minutes before engaging in fellatio. This product ranks very highly in the list of those with powerful aphrodisiac properties. Mint crystals are sometimes mixed with milk or honey, and are sold on the market in small bottles. You may also discover sparklers on African markets. These are candles made from essential oils, and are intended to be real seduction tools for African couples.
Massages
As a couple, touch is a wonderful way to develop sensitivity and explore sensuality. It’s one of the most beautiful and important human languages. In fact, this special attention to one’s partner’s body not only helps to tame one’s own body, but also to discover that of the other. Sensual massage for black people is another enriched form of the practice of touching. It encourages listening to your partner’s needs and contributes fully to their well-being.
The African Manefaing massage, for example, is a gentle, deep and complete massage, from the top of the skull to the tips of the toes. It consists of large glides, muscle kneading and stretching, as well as specific techniques such as the “African roll” and “Bamiléké drainage”, originally from Cameroon. A real innovation is the use of highly effective accessories such as the Baham handle. In addition to offering a unique moment of escape, relaxation and travel, this massage has many virtues. As well as relaxing your muscles, it increases sexual desire and pleasure.
