Learning from the Balinese

Bali is such a special place to me. I feel held in the arms of mama Bali from the moment I arrive. This island and its people have captured my heart.

I believe this comes, in part, from the Balinese belief in the “three causes for well-being” or Tri Hita Karana. It is a traditional philosophy for life in Bali and its one of the most important lessons I’ve learned from the Balinese over the years.

The Three Causes for Well-Being

Harmony with God

Harmony among people

Harmony with nature

Angela embracing mother nature in Bali

Coincidentally, the origin of the word harmony dates back to the Latin and Greek word harmonia, which means “joining” or in a philosophical context, the “principle of union.” That is also the translation of the word yoga: “to yoke,” “join together,” or simply “union.”

To this day, I continue to practice the Tri Hita Karana in my life, on and off the yoga mat.

I love this about travel - learning from people about their traditions and ways of living with each other and in the world. Then using what I’ve learned to inspire and enhance my own life.

And being on a yoga retreat makes travel even more sacred, meaningful, and transformative - it offers opportunities to use our practices, and group energy to share and integrate our experiences of being immersed in a new culture, traditions and learning from its people.

Dressed for a traditional Balinese ceremony to make an offering to the gods

xo Angela