*~Methods~*

Wielding a tool much like a crochet hook, the ancient embalmers emptied the skull by pulling clumps of brain matter out through the nostrils.

Delicate and skilled, they caused no damage to the visage of their dearly departed. Slicing the smallest possible incision into the abdomen, embalmers plucked out the stomach, liver, intestines, and other organs.

Natron, a type of salt, was the embalmers’ secret weapon. It coaxed moisture from the flesh and reduced odors. Small packets were stuffed inside the abdominal cavity. The body was covered with some 400 pounds of it.

Step 4:

Thirty-five days after recreating the ancient embalmer’s art. By then, it dehydrated, with frankincense and myrrh. Then the wrapping started layer after layer of linen, decorated with hieroglyphic prayers. A small amulet was placed over the only organ left inside, the heart.

Step 5:

Once the Mummy was finally prepared, it was time for the funeral. The Mummy and its canopic jars were transported by sled from the embalming tent to the tomb. People were hired to demonstrate their grief by crying and throwing dust on their hair. At the site of the tomb, religious ceremonies were held to prepare the dead for the afterlife. In particular, the Opening of the Mouth ceremony was believed to allow the Mummy to see, hear, eat and drink in the spirit world.

With a final benediction, the Mummy embarked on its journey to the afterworld and eternal life....

--- You are young again. You live again. You are young again. You live again. Forever --- * Ancient Egyptian prayer for the dead.