This week marks my fourth blog post, and I’m excited to share it with you. While the website is still a work in progress, I’m using this blog to validate my ideas and share insights on topics that feel meaningful. Last week, I talked about Sattva, but with the festive season in full swing, I wanted to shift focus to something more relevant for the moment.
This week, I want to share my thoughts on Ghatasthapana, the beginning of Dashain, and how this cherished tradition not only strengthens our cultural roots but also impacts our mental well-being.
As we welcome Ghatasthapana, it brings much more than just rituals into our lives. It’s a time when families come together, kids race to open fields to fly kites, friends and families gather to play cards, and the house fills with the delicious smells of festive food. Dashain is a season filled with joy and connection. I’ve come to see that while festivals like Dashain can lift our spirits, they also bring certain pressures. These highs and challenges can have a profound effect on our mental health.
The Positives:
- Traditions Bring Comfort: Every Dashain, when we set up the “Kalash“ and plant “Jamara“ during Ghatasthapana, I’m reminded of how important it is to have certain things that stay the same in life. These traditions give us a sense of stability, a mental anchor that helps us feel grounded. In a world full of change, knowing that these rituals will be there year after year offers a lot of comfort, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Flying Kites and Childhood Joy: There’s something about flying kites during Dashain that takes me back to my childhood. It’s not just about getting the kite up in the air; it’s about freedom, playfulness, and letting go of worries. Psychologically, engaging in play—whether it’s flying kites with friends or laughing over card games—helps release endorphins, the ‘feel-good’ hormones. These activities improve our mood and remind us of the simple joys in life.
- Family Bonding: Sitting down with family and friends to enjoy traditional foods like sel roti and goat meat creates a shared experience that strengthens emotional connections. Research shows that these social gatherings are essential for our mental health. It’s these moments of togetherness that help us feel supported, loved, and less alone in our struggles. Personally, I’ve found that these family interactions during Dashain are what recharge me the most.
- Mindfulness Through Rituals: While some may find the rituals around Ghatasthapana overwhelming, I see them as a form of mindfulness. From carefully placing the “Kalash” to tending to the “Jamara” each day, these rituals require attention and care. Being present in these moments helps us slow down, focus on the present, and calm our busy minds.
The Challenges:
- Pressure to Keep Up with Traditions: As much as I love Dashain, I’ve also felt the pressure to get everything “just right.” Whether it’s making sure the rituals are performed correctly or keeping up with family expectations, it can feel overwhelming. Many of us feel that pressure, especially when we live away from family or are dealing with work or financial stress. It’s important to remember that participating in traditions should be joyful, not stressful.
- Financial Strain: There’s no denying that celebrating Dashain can sometimes come with a financial burden. Preparing for the festival—buying new clothes, getting all the ingredients for the special dishes, giving money as dakshina—can be mentally draining when we’re already juggling other financial responsibilities. I always remind myself and others that Dashain is about the experience and connection, not how much we spend.
- Family Tensions: Festivals can bring out the best in us, but they can also stir up unresolved tensions within families. Gathering with relatives can sometimes lead to disagreements or stress. It’s important to approach these situations with patience and compassion, understanding that not every moment will be perfect.
- Ritual Overload: Let’s be honest—sometimes following every tradition feels like too much. While the rituals have deep meaning, it’s okay to modify or take a step back if it becomes overwhelming. It’s better to protect your mental health than to burn out trying to do everything.
How to Balance Tradition and Mental Health:
- Enjoy the Simple Things: Whether it’s flying kites with friends, laughing over card games, or sitting down to a big family meal, focus on the joy these moments bring. They may seem small, but they’re what make Dashain truly special. These experiences contribute to our happiness and emotional well-being.
- Let Go of Perfection: I’ve learned that it’s okay if things aren’t perfect. If you can’t follow every ritual or if something doesn’t go as planned, it’s not the end of the world. What matters most is the meaning behind the actions and the connection we feel with our loved ones.
- Set Boundaries: If the rituals or social gatherings become too much, it’s okay to say no or take a break. Protecting your mental health should be a priority, even during festivals. Setting boundaries can help you enjoy the festival without feeling drained.
- Be Mindful: Use this time to slow down and be present. Whether it’s planting Jamara or enjoying a meal with family, take a few moments to reflect on the meaning of these traditions. It’s a great way to practice mindfulness and enhance your mental well-being.
As we celebrate Ghatasthapana and Dashain this year, let’s not forget to take care of our mental health. The joy, warmth, and connection of this season are what make it special, but it’s also important to be mindful of our emotional needs. By balancing tradition with well-being, we can truly enjoy the festival while staying connected to ourselves and our loved ones.
I might have missed out on a few things, but please feel free to provide feedback. If you love my writing, feel free to share it with others!
The featured image is from Freepik, and I’ve tweaked it a little.
