01/11/2024
Yesterday was quite an interesting day here in Edinburgh, where multiple celebrations filled the streets with energy and life. People were dressed in creative Halloween costumes, celebrating the darker season, while others gathered for the annual Samhain festival. Meanwhile, I chose to take part in Diwali, the Festival of Lights, which holds a deeper meaning for me. ✨
⠀
Diwali, unlike Halloween or Samhain, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. While Samhain marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year, Diwali is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, light always prevails. The festival symbolizes inner spiritual light, the kind that guides us through life’s challenges.⠀
⠀
Although I’m not Hindu, Diwali resonates with me on a personal level. As a yoga practitioner, I feel deeply connected to the spiritual traditions that stem from Hinduism. 🕉 Yoga is not just a physical practice, it’s based on philosophy and ancient teachings. Celebrating Diwali gives me the chance to reflect on these origins and better understand the profound culture and wisdom behind the yoga practice that has become such a vital part of my life. It’s an opportunity for me to honour this tradition, and to seek out the light within myself, which is a key part of both yoga and Diwali.⠀
⠀
Rituals, whether they’re part of a festival like Diwali, Samhain, or even Halloween, play a significant role in human life. They help us mark important transitions, celebrate changes, and bring us together. These shared moments, steeped in tradition, help us connect not just with ourselves but also with others. Rituals give meaning to our experiences and help us navigate the complexities of life. Whether through lighting candles, sharing sweets, or simply pausing to reflect, rituals have the power to ground us in the present and remind us of what truly matters. ⠀
⠀