The much-publicized cases of musicians Shatta Wale and Medikal being remanded on separate charges at the Ankaful Prisons in the Central Region have also brought to the fore one interesting aspect of prison culture’ which is the ritual sea shore baths prison inmates go through after they finally gain their freedom upon release.
Here are 3 possible reasons why prison inmates decide to take a sea bath the very day they are released:
1. MEDICAL/HEALTH REASONS:
According to health experts, sea baths are generally safe for most people. It helps in stimulating circulation and
easing muscle cramps.
It is also good for the human skin, which is the body’s largest organ. Dermatologists also recommend sea salt baths for patients with psoriasis, eczema, and other dry skin conditions.
Most Ghanaian prisons are known for insanitary conditions and overcrowded rooms. Such conditions can lead to the spread of skin diseases, however, sea salt baths can help calm the symptoms of certain skin conditions.
Sea salt also helps people dealing with acne and other related skin diseases.
2. RELIGIOUS/SUPERSTITION
Ghana is a highly religious country with many people who hold superstitious beliefs.
Prisons are regarded as places of misfortune, so inmates who are able to get back their freedom are expected to undergo a symbolic ritual cleansing to break ‘spiritual links’ or associations they may have contracted during their confinement period.
3. STRESS RELIEVER
After several hours and days in custody, sea baths are good for the relaxation of the body.
It is also known for relieving stiffness in joints, soothing achy, overworked legs, and feet.
This is generally good for people who have been stressed for long without exercising their right to move from place to place without restrictions.
In the meantime, however, the two artistes only have their freedom albeit temporarily, as it is not clear whether they would be convicted by the time their cases come to a close or not.
Shatta Wale was remanded for a week alongside his accomplices for faking a gun attack incident.
Medikal was also remanded for a week for brandishing a gun in a video found on social media.
By: Lord Kweku Sekyi
