Cultural views on the navel Early Japanese poems feature many references to the female navel. In some, the word "navel" actually refers to an indentation or hole instead of the belly button. The shape of the umbilicus of a newborn baby would be discussed at length. If a baby's navel points downward, the parents would brace themselves for a weakling child who will bring them woe. The thunder god Raijin, with his terrifying drums, great horns, and long tusks, was said to have an insatiable appetite for young navels, and mothers had to nag their youngsters constantly to keep themselves well covered up. Due to
Cultural views on the navel navel of Lord Vishnu is considered to be the source of life and creativity. There's almost some sort of fascination with the navel in India, because it is considered to be a symbol of birth and life. That means in ancient India, women would wear sari that bared their midriffs. Indian television actors have followed suit, wearing saris that expose more skin, including the navel, with viewers mimicking the styles. Some women wear navel jewels or navel piercings to emphasize the navel and enhance its appeal. Another option is using "bindis" to decorate the navel. Tattoos near or below the