For instance, some traditional healers were not prepared to divulge information about their healing practices to the interviewers. In addition, some traditional priests and priestesses needed permission from their deities or gods, which in most cases was not granted. The study revealed several indigenous beliefs and practices that contribute to resource management. The earth and large bodies of water are regarded as sacred. For instance, the sacredness of Lake Bosumtwi near Kuntanase village means that no human waste may be deposited in it.
Tradition forbids the use of boats on the lake.
In certain portions of the lake, fishing is forbidden altogether, while in July and August, when the spirit of the lake is believed to be resting, no fishing is allowed. There are also rituals to seek permission from the spirit of the earth to dig a grave for the dead. The general belief is that failure to honor the spirit of the earth or acknowledge its magnanimity in this way, may provoke anger and vengeance in the form of natural calamities such as famine, excessive rainfall, or death. In this sense, indigenous institutions in Ashanti have much to offer. Their philosophy of life is aimed at the perpetuation of all objects, both animate and inanimate.