09/02/2026
I’ve just returned from India, where I spent time at several sacred Śiva sites as part of my annual yātrā.
One of the most moving experiences was at Arunāchala, a holy mountain that imbes the light of Śiva himself. We watched the sunrise there, and although the sun was never fully visible, the gradual illumination of the landscape was unforgettable. The rice paddies and patchwork fields slowly came alive with colour, as if the world were being revealed layer by layer. It felt like a quiet teaching on presence, patience, and light.
We also spent precious time at Chidambaram, traditionally understood as the place where Śiva revealed himself as Naṭarāja, the cosmic dancer. It is said that he sounded his ḍamaru fourteen times, giving rise to sound itself, so that jñāna wisdom could be shared through vibration and mantra.
With all of this still very alive in my body and heart, I’m deeply looking forward to holding a sacred space for this auspicious evening. Alongside the wonderful Steph and her cello, we’ll serenade the divine, sit in ceremony, and practise japa meditation with the Śiva pañcākṣarī mantra, Oṁ Namaḥ Śivāya. This mantra carries within it the mahā pañca bhūta, the five great elements that make up the manifested world, reminding us that what we chant is also what we are made of.
Śivarātri is an especially potent time to sit in sādhana together. It is a night traditionally devoted to stillness, vigilance, and remembrance, a time to recommit to our intentions, to listen more deeply, and to align ourselves with the rhythm that underlies the full cycle of life.
I can’t imagine a more meaningful way to honour this night than by gathering in sound, silence, and shared practice.
Oṁ Namaḥ Śivāya
Rachel x
Join me at Soultribe studio Sunday 15th February 6.30pm - 8pm go to for bookings
https://www.soultribestudio.com.au/events-and-workshops/maha-shivaratri-evening-of-devotion
No experience needed
