Fertility Folklore

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Is it coincidence? Science would probably say, “Absolutely!” While there is no proof that these stories of miracles brought forth of folklore have any truth to them, it never hurts to try.

The Cerne Abbas Giant

Carved into the chalk bedrock above Cerne Abbas, Dorset (England), is a 180-foot figure—unmistakably male. Although little is known about the carving’s origins, plenty of speculation exists about its current mystical powers. When a couple claimed to have become pregnant after spending the evening on the carving, people from far and wide began flocking to the figure for fertility.

If you’re looking for a unique vacation spot, this might be your place. Just keep in mind that the giant is now off limits to walking on—or “sleeping” on.

68Ripley’s Fertility Statues

In 1995, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Orlando, Florida, got more than they bargained for out of a couple of statues meant only to decorate the entrance. Ripley’s claims that hundreds of women, including members of their own staff, became pregnant after touching the statues. The statues are on display at the museum’s headquarters in Orlando, and periodically travel to various cities for limited engagements.

St. Gerard

If prayer is more your speed than travel, look no further than St. Gerard, the “unofficial” patron saint of motherhood. Although the Catholic Church has not placed an official title at the feet of St. Gerard, his many miracles preformed on the behalf of mothers, children and families have become enough proof for his legion of followers.

For more information about his history of and prayers to St. Gerard, visit Jo Spano’s website. Spano, the mother of 16 children, has dedicated much of her life to spreading the word about St. Gerard and his blessings on moms and moms-to-be. There is also a national shrine of St. Gerard in St. Lucy’s Church in Newark, New Jersey.

The Tagata Fertility Festival

Each year in March, the small farming town of Komaki, Japan, comes alive with fertility. Giant, wooden penises, pregnant women, and the Tagata Shrine are the highlight of this festival, or Hounen Matsuri, celebrated in order to ask Shinto gods for healthy babies—and a healthy harvest. If you like music, ritual, and sake (rice wine), ask your travel agent for more information on scheduling this once-in-a-lifetime vacation to Komaki.

Symbols and Personal Charms

imagesVarious items have been named as “lucky” or “positive” when it comes to influencing conception. Here are the most popular ones:

  • Kokopelli—Native American symbol of abundance, fertility, and entertainment. Images of this flute player, depicted with a hunchback, can be found on jewelry and in artwork.
  • Rose quartz—This beautiful stone is sometimes called the “love stone” and has been credited with increasing fertility and creativity in those that behold it.
  • Cowery shell—The simple shape of this shell conjures up images of the uterus. Is it any wonder then why this item is believed to increase fertility and sexual potency? Bracelets and necklaces are a popular way to utilize the cowery shell in jewelry making.

These are only a few of the many people, places, and things that are rumored to hold positive fertility powers. While it’s never wise to turn you back on sound medical advice, it doesn’t hurt to couple your doctor’s wisdom with a little fertility folklore fun.

Keep Cool.

Source: Babyzone

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