land diving
Oceanic ritual
Quick Summary
Land diving is a ritual performed on Pentecost Island in Vanuatu, typically between April and May, to ensure a successful yam harvest. Participants, known as land divers, leap headfirst from towers constructed from timber and vines, reaching heights of up to 80 feet. They are secured only by vines attached to their ankles, which are short and springy enough to break their fall, allowing them to narrowly miss the ground. This ancient practice is credited with inspiring the modern sport of bungee jumping.1
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