The Belarusian elders who heal through whispering

Deep in the Belarusian countryside, there is an ancient tradition of respected elders healing their communities through "whispering". A ritualised series of words are whispered as prayers to heal members of their illnesses and troubles.

It's a way of life life that sits at the mystical crossroads of Christian faith and folkloric superstition, the faithful and the doubters - and it's rapidly disappearing.

Helena is 90 years old. She's known as one of the best healers in the region.

You can find out more about this ancient practice by listening to the World Service's Heart and Soul programme here.

Video: Siarhiej Leskiek

Producer: Sophia Smith Galer

(Photo credit: BBC)