Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, March 25, 2024
As the arrival of spring unfurls its vibrant tapestry, communities across India and beyond gather to celebrate Holi, the festival of colours. Amidst the kaleidoscope of hues and infectious laughter, Holi transcends mere revelry; it becomes a powerful testament to joy, unity, and mental well-being.
In many households and communities, Holi will be celebrated today, on Monday, March 25, 2024, and Indian Newslink wishes all its readers a Happy Holi. This article aims to explore how Holi is more than just the ‘Festival of Colours’ and how you can make the most of this day, for your mental wellbeing.
Psychology of Colours
Holi, with its riotous splashes of colour, paints the canvas of life with exuberance and vitality. Colours have an undeniable impact on our psyche. They possess the power to evoke emotions, influence perceptions, and even alter moods. Dr Thompson, a psychologist specialising in colour therapy, explains, “Colours play a crucial role in regulating our emotions. Bright and vivid colours, such as those used in Holi, can stimulate feelings of happiness, energy, and positivity.”
It is interesting to explore the therapeutic qualities of various colours. From the grounding and stabilising energy of earth tones to the uplifting and energising attributes of warmer colours, one can actively tune in to the chromatic vibrations that most deeply resonate with their personal needs and growth aspirations.
Unity in Diversity
In a world often fragmented by divisions, Holi emerges as a unifying force, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and social status. One of the most profound aspects of Holi is its ability to foster a sense of community and connection. Human connection is vital for mental well-being. Holi brings people together, breaking down barriers and fostering bonds of camaraderie and belonging.
Priya Sharma, a mental health counsellor, remarks, “Holi fosters a sense of belonging and community. It brings people together, forging bonds of camaraderie and understanding.”
The Triumph of Goodness
At the heart of Holi lies the tale of Holika Dahan, which commemorates the victory of Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, over Holika, his malevolent aunt. Holika, blessed with immunity to fire, perished in the flames while attempting to kill Prahlad. This narrative symbolises the victory of righteousness over malevolence, light over darkness, a timeless motif echoed in various cultures across the world.
Rooted in mythology, Holi symbolises the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. Dr Rajesh Kumar, a psychiatrist, observes, “The symbolic significance of Holi resonates deeply with our innate psychological needs. It instils hope, renewal, and the shedding of negativity.”
Stress Relief Through Celebration
In our fast-paced lives, stress has become a ubiquitous companion. Holi offers a much-needed reprieve, a moment to let go and immerse oneself in joyous abandon. Ramesh Patel, a yoga instructor, notes, “The physicality of Holi, with its dancing, singing, and colour throwing, provides a cathartic release of tension. It is a celebration of life and vitality.”
Holi encourages participants to shed inhibitions and embrace the spontaneity of the moment. Amidst the riotous splashes of colour, laughter fills the air as people dance, sing, and play with unrestrained joy. This uninhibited expression of merriment symbolises a liberation of the spirit, a celebration of life’s inherent vibrancy and exuberance.
Mindfulness Amidst Merriment
Participating in Holi cultivates a state of mindfulness, wherein one becomes fully present in the moment. Dr Meera Desai, a mindfulness practitioner, explains, “The act of smearing colours demands full attention and engagement. It is a form of active meditation, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity.”
Holi empowers individuals to express themselves freely, celebrating their unique identities without inhibition. The uninhibited nature of Holi encourages self-expression, fostering a sense of empowerment and acceptance.
Finding beauty in chaos
In the face of life’s challenges, Holi teaches us resilience, the ability to bounce back with grace and optimism. Maya Kapoor, a life coach, affirms, “Holi reminds us to embrace life’s imperfections and setbacks with resilience and fortitude. Through celebration and laughter, we find the strength to overcome adversity.”
Holi, with its joyful chaos and unrestrained revelry, teaches us to embrace life’s imperfections with a spirit of acceptance. Just as the festival’s colours blend and meld in unpredictable patterns, so too must we learn to navigate the twists and turns of our journey with equanimity. In the kaleidoscope of life, resilience emerges as the thread that binds our experiences together, allowing us to find beauty amidst chaos.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
