6 Lessons We Can Learn From Bedouin Culture

Feeling small? / Photo Nick Russam

Bedouin culture is fading fast, and as with so many different groups around the world, valuable lessons can be learnt from the exchange of their knowledge and philosophy. We must capture this information before it is too late. Here are some of the main lessons I think we can learn from the Bedouin community in South Sinai.

1. Appreciate the little things in life – Twenty five years ago the Bedouin community in South Sinai lived in tents made from goat and camel hair, without any electric or running water. They moved from place to place in search of water and food. They appreciate the small things in life, they see everything as a gift from god and are grateful for any modern convenience or luxury.
2. Avoid waste – The Bedouin are a very practical people, reusing as much as they can and frequently turning old pieces of wood/plastic/metal/rock into something new.
3. Natural is best – Bedouins eat natural foods, no processed food (with the exception of small children wanting sweets and crisps or the occasional treat).  They make their food fresh using only the best available fresh produce. Everything is cooked and prepared using traditional methods – they prefer to cookon a real fire as opposed to using gas or electric. The food tastes better when cooked using traditional techniques and brings out the flavours of the vegetables, fish or meat.
4. Herbal medicine – By using desert herbs they have developed an advanced system of herbal medicine that can be used to treat most ailments. Further research is currently being undertaken to measure the true benefits of the herbal medicine that they use. I’ve had experiences of being successfully cured of a bad stomach, sprained ankle, head ache and muscle pain using bedouin herbs.
5. Be in tune with the environment – Bedouin people have an amazing instinct and knowing for when something is about to happen. They usually know atleast 30 minutes before a storm is about to arrive, they know when the right time is to move on.  By being at peace with themselves they are more open to their instincts.
6. Don’t get stressed – Since my time in Dahab, Sinai (over three years now) I have never seen a stressed a Bedouin. They understand time keeping and time management but even when they are late or behind schedule they do not get flustered, they remain calm, graceful and elegant at all times. Try to find a stressed Bedouin…you never will. Stay relaxed and calm and maybe you can keep stress and illness at bay.

So when in Sinai come and do as the Bedouin do…less is sometimes more