The art of preserving bodies describes how by which the tissues of a corpse can be preserved. This preservation can happen through natural means or be done intentionally by humans. Natural mummification occurs under specific conditions, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or arid conditions. One well-known example of intentional mummification is from ancient Egypt, where the deceased were encased in bandages to stop decomposition and keep the body for the next world.

Preserved bodies, whether human or animal, have been found in many parts of the world, often because of natural preservation or ritualistic preservation. Within Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been uncovered, including a large number of cats. The process of Egyptian mummification was rich in ritual. They removed the brain using a hook through the nasal cavity, and extracted most internal organs, except for the heart. This was due to the belief that the heart was central to the ceremony in the afterlife. All other organs were placed in canopic jars, which were buried with the mummy.

In modern times, mummification has evolved into a new practice within certain BDSM practices. Here, the practice of wrapping the body has become a form of role-play, where one person, referred to as the "slave," is wrapped tightly by another, the "master." Breathing is allowed through exposed nostrils to ensure oxygen flow. The items used to wrap the body range from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. While the practice shares the name, in this case is focused on controlling the body instead of maintaining the body's condition.

**To conclude**

Mummification has undergone vast changes from its beginning in ancient Egyptian death practices to present-day practices in alternative lifestyles. While the traditional purpose was about preserving the body for the afterlife, the modern interpretation is about control and role-play. Despite the differences, both forms of mummification reveal a fascination with control, whether controlling life or death or within social relationships.