Similar to Hawaiian culture, the environment here has a lot of important spiritual and cultural significance. In the Kichwa language used here, we often call mountains and volcanoes Mamá and Taita, which is a term of respect and also an acknowledgment of the equilibrium between men and women portrayed in the Andean cosmovision. The Andean cosmovision represents the way that many of the people here perceive the world. It is not written down, nor is it a set of concepts or beliefs, but rather a way of experiencing. Do you have anything similar in your cultures?
There are many myths and legends about the volcanoes and mountains here, just as in Hawai'i. I'll share a shortened version of the myth of the volcanoes Mamá Catocachi and Taita Imbabura. The volcano Taita Imbabaru was a grand "apu" or spiritual protector that looked over the people, animals, trees, rocks, rivers and winds. He fell in love with Mamá Cotacachi, a volcano that was created in front of him. For many years, he worked up the courage to ask her to be his partner. She was so happy that she trembled with excitement, sending all the birds that were resting flying into the air! They say that each time Taita Imbabura visits Mamá Cotocachi, they mix their clouds. During nights when there are strong winds, it is believed that the winds are carrying goodnight kisses between this lovely pair. Eventually, they had a son, Yanaurcu, who is the protector of all the surrounding lagoons around him. Now, Taita Imbabrua is very ancient. He covers his head with clouds to help alievate headaches and the bothers of his rocky back.
Some of the traditional clothing worn by many of the indigenous Kichwa people of Otavalo contains the symbolism of Mamá Cotocachi and Taita Imbabura.
