FESTIVE SPIRIT/ALTERNATIVE HEALING
Use of lights during festivals is common to all religions, but the pride of place for the celebration of light must surely be assigned to Diwali. Though there are several stories, depending on the region from which one hails, as to why diyas or lights are used, the common link between all stories is that the lights signi- fy the victory of good over evil, and wisdom over ignorance.
Use of gheeor natural oils, even sesame, as is in south Indian homes, gives the ritual a distinct flavor and warm, familial and societal association that is deeply binding. Ghee is also
regarded as highly satvic(the quality of purity) and is said to dispel negative energies. Even
today, ghee (clarified butter) is prized highly by the ayurvedicscience as healing. The idea
of a joyous celebration, therefore, would be incomplete without the sparkle of these diyas.
Light up Light up
your health your health
Shameem Akthar on the
significance of light in
different therapies
Aromatherapy
In aromatherapy, resinous oils are believed to have trapped the
essence of light in them. Though used for medical and cosmetic purposes, most of them have a deep spiritual temper that makes them
popular for ritualistic uses. Aroma and incense are sought from amber,
frankincense, benzoin and myrrh. Frankincense is an exciting essential
oil. It is uplifting and calming, and used to prevent wrinkles and control respiratory problems. Myrrh is a mixture of spicy, woody notes,
and is cooling. Benzoin, an interesting combination of sweet and balsamic notes. It is used to protect the aura, induce meditative states,
restore skin health, and alleviate depression.
Yoga
In yoga the quality of light in
a human being is referred to as
satva. This is the desired quality to be acquired over the other two, rajas (action) and
tamas (lethargy). The ideal quality
of light — satva — may be
acquired through food. Satvic
foods that create the aura of
light (which is why people who
practice yoga glow with health) are freshly cooked, lightly
spiced eatables that enhance
your health and spiritual focus.
Nuts, fruits, vegetables, healthy spices that are used to flavor
as well as heal, are regarded as
satvic. In fact, difficult or spiritually cleansing poses like the
peacock or mayurasana and
deep or advanced pranayama
(breathing practices) cannnot
be attempted if your dietary
habits are not satvic. A good
yoga practice will slowly enhance your satvicpersonality and
make you glow with purity of
purpose, health and focus.
Feng Shui
Use of light, as suggested by this Eastern science, is fast gaining resonance with
interior decorators, who use research to validate the belief that wrong lighting – such
as from fluorescent lamps – can cause depression, learning problems in children,
and even lead to lethargy and early death. This science also uses mirror to enhance
and bounce light. Convex mirrors, for instance, are seen as protective. Metal-framed
mirrors are seen as creating a dynamic energy, while paper or cloth covered lights
are believed to soothe by softening the natural glare of any bulb. Negative or sluggish energy in a room can be dispelled with appropriate corner lighting or the right
use of mirrors.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is similar to yoga since it holds the satvic
quality in high regard. But it is more precise in suggesting foods
that help you create an inner glow. These include fruits
because they enhance moisture in the body. Spices like cardamom that have a hint of sweetness, come under the same
category. Almonds enhance the inner and outer glow of
your entire personality. Other satvic foods include whole
grains, because of their low glycemic index and gentler
legumes, which are easy to digest .
Crystal therapy
In crystal therapy yellow, transparent
or translucent stones glowing with an
inner fire are said to be energizing,
spiritualizing, stimulating and healing.
Some stunning stones that shimmer
with this inner light are calcite (espe-
cially the golden or yellow stones),
amber (which is said to trap fossil sun-
light), yellow jade and crystalline beryl,
which is uplifting and purifying. Cat’s
eye is used to bring prosperity and
build confidence. Topaz is detoxifying
and promotes prosperity. Citrine dissi-
pates negativity, cleanses the aura, and
aids circulation. Yellow, sparkling
stones are seen as cleansing and
strengthening the solar plexus or the
navel center. The common property of
these light-trapped stones is that they
boost confidence, and are believed to
promote prosperity, and fight depres-
sion.
