Navaratri is a great time to go inside, connect with your 108 chakras, and become one with your divine awareness. Whether you’re new to Navaratri or looking to make your observance more meaningful, here’s a guide to the best way to celebrate this sacred festival.
During Navaratri, you have a great opportunity to explore the depths of your own being, make a connection with all 108 of your chakras, and open the door to your divine consciousness.
“Navaratri is a great opportunity to explore the depths of your inner being, make a connection with all 108 of your chakras, and open the door to your divine cosmic consciousness.” – Sri Amit Ray
Your energy centers can be brought into harmony, so preparing the path for spiritual awakening and inner transformation, if you identify yourself with the goddesses and the attributes that are linked with them. You can learn the 108 chakras names, locations, and functions to explore them in deep.
During the nine nights of Navaratri, let the divine feminine to lead you on a voyage of self-discovery and divine enlightenment, bridging the gap between your inner world and the cosmos as a whole.
What is the 108 chakra in the body?
Traditionally, the human body is said to have seven chakras along the spinal line. However, in 2005, Sri Amit Ray introduced the 108 chakras to the world as a subset of the 114 chakras to cover the total neuropsychology, human mind, body, and spiritual experiences. He introduces the names, locations, functions, mantras, and awakenings of the 108 chakras. The concept of 108 chakras offers a unique and innovative perspective on the traditional understanding of energy centers in the human body. Each of these chakras could have specific functions, including the regulation of emotions, the facilitation of physical well-being, and the enhancement of spiritual awareness.
Significance of Navaratri:
Navaratri, originating from the Sanskrit words “Nava” (nine) and “Ratri” (nights), is a recurring cultural and spiritual celebration that unfolds during equinox after the Amavasya, the new moon.
Before you begin, take some time to understand the spiritual and cultural significance of Navaratri. Recognize that it’s a time to honor the divine feminine and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Navaratri, a sacred and recurring festival, beautifully synchronizes with the cyclical changes in nature, specifically the cosmic rhythm and the Earth’s celestial movements. This celebration, which translates to “nine nights,” holds profound significance in the context of the natural world. Navaratri’s connection with nature is multi-faceted, encompassing both its timing and the spiritual essence it encapsulates.
These nine days are devoted to the feminine divine and are graced with a rich tapestry of rituals and observances. While the significance of Navaratri exhibits regional diversity, with different goddesses receiving reverence, such as:
In Bengal it is celebrated as Durga Puja. Durga Puja is marked by elaborate and artistic installations of Durga idols in pandals (temporary temples). The festival is characterized by grand processions, cultural performances, and vibrant celebrations.
In Gujrat Navaratri is celebrated in her form as Amba or Jagdamba. Garba and Dandiya Raas are the iconic dance forms performed during Navaratri in Gujarat.
The goddess Chamundi, a form of Durga, is venerated during Navaratri in Karnataka. The Mysuru Dasara is the most famous celebration in Karnataka. It involves a grand procession with an adorned idol of Chamundi on a beautifully decorated elephant, along with cultural events.
In Tamil Nadu, Navaratri is celebrated by worshipping Goddess Lalitha, a form of the Divine Mother. People create intricate kolams (rangoli) in front of their homes.
The Chakras and Divine Consciousness
Each chakra is associated with specific qualities, elements, and aspects of our lives. When aligned and balanced, these chakras facilitate the flow of energy, promoting physical and emotional well-being. During Navaratri, you can focus on your 108 chakras or the 7 traditional chakras to invoke divine consciousness:
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- Root Chakra (Muladhara): Connect with Goddess Durga to awaken your sense of stability and security.
- Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Call upon Goddess Lakshmi to enhance your creativity and abundance.
- Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Seek Goddess Saraswati’s blessings for wisdom and personal power.
- Heart Chakra (Anahata): Open your heart chakra during Navaratri to experience love and compassion, aligning with the divine feminine.
- Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Invoke the power of speech and communication by connecting with the goddess’s divine wisdom.
- Third-Eye Chakra (Ajna): Engage in deep meditation to awaken your inner vision and intuition.
- Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): The culmination of your spiritual journey during Navaratri, connect with the divine consciousness, transcending the physical world
Navaratri Mantras
“ॐ जयंती मङ्गला काली भद्रकाली कपालिनी। दुर्गा क्षमा शिवा धात्री स्वाहा स्वधा नमोऽस्तु ते॥”
Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadrakali Kapalini.
Durga Kshama Shiva Dhatri Swaha Swadha Namostute.
Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadrakali Kapalini. Durga Kshama Shiva Dhatri Swaha Swadha Namostute.
If you want, you can chant the Navarana Mantra, during this time.
Navaratri Foods
During Navratri, embracing a Sattvic diet extends far beyond the mere act of fasting. An optimal diet is the best way to purify your 108 chakras. It is a conscious choice to nourish the body, mind, and soul with foods that elevate one’s spiritual connection and well-being. The simplicity and purity of sattvic foods reflect the essence of Navratri, allowing devotees to immerse themselves in the divine while cultivating inner harmony and balance.
- Fruits: Fresh fruits like apples, bananas, pomegranates, and pears offer natural sweetness and a refreshing quality, symbolizing the simplicity and purity associated with sattvic nourishment.
- Vegetables: Root vegetables, leafy greens, and squashes are staples in sattvic cooking. Dishes prepared with these ingredients not only provide vital nutrients but also maintain balance and vitality.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are prized for their nourishing qualities. They offer a rich source of energy and nutrients to support the body during fasting.
- Grains: Ancient grains like amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa are frequently embraced. These grains are easy to digest and provide a wholesome source of protein and fiber.
- Milk and Dairy: Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and ghee hold an essential place in sattvic cuisine. They symbolize purity and nourishment.
2. Choose Your Devotion:
Navaratri is a celebration of three goddesses – Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati – each representing different aspects of existence. Choose a form of the divine feminine that resonates with your aspirations. If you seek power and strength, focus on Durga. For wealth and abundance, turn to Lakshmi. And for knowledge and wisdom, connect with Saraswati.
3. Create a Sacred Space:
Set up a dedicated space for your Navaratri observance. This could be a corner of your home or a quiet room where you can meditate, chant, and offer your prayers. Decorate this space with flowers, candles, and images or idols of the goddess you’re worshipping.
4. Daily Rituals:
During Navaratri, it’s customary to perform daily rituals. Light a lamp or diya, offer flowers, and recite prayers or mantras dedicated to the goddess. You can find specific prayers or mantras associated with Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati to enhance your devotion. The light lamp has many holistic influnces on the brain, and emotional chakras.
5. Fasting and Dietary Choices:
Fasting during Navaratri is a common practice. It’s a way to purify the body and mind while enhancing your spiritual connection. If you choose to fast, abstain from consuming grains, non-vegetarian food, and alcohol. Instead, focus on a diet of fruits, nuts, and dairy products. Remember that fasting should be done mindfully, with a sense of devotion and self-control.
6. Chanting and Meditation:
Chanting mantras and meditating are essential components of Navaratri. Spend time each day in quiet meditation, focusing on your chosen goddess and her attributes. You can also incorporate mantra chanting into your daily routine, as it helps center your mind and enhance your devotion.
7. Engage in Cultural Activities:
Navaratri is also a time for cultural celebrations. Attend or participate in traditional dance forms like Garba and Dandiya Raas, which are popular in some regions. These dances are not just festive but also spiritually enriching, as they symbolize the cosmic dance of the goddess.
8. Seek Knowledge:
If you’re observing Navaratri with a focus on Saraswati, use this time to deepen your knowledge and wisdom. Study scriptures, read books, or take up a new skill or hobby that aligns with your quest for wisdom.
9. Connect with a Spiritual Community:
If possible, engage with a spiritual community during Navaratri. Many temples and spiritual centers conduct special prayers, pujas, and events during this time. Being part of a community can enhance your spiritual experience. The concept of Ray 108 chakras provides a novel and innovative perspective on the conventional comprehension of the human body’s energy centers. Each of these chakras may serve distinct purposes, such as the regulation of emotions, the promotion of physical health, and the elevation of spiritual awareness.
10. Self-Reflection:
Navaratri is an ideal time for self-reflection and introspection. You can meditate and balance the 108 chakras. As you explore each of the 108 chakras, imagine them spinning at the right speed, free of blockages. Visualize the energy flowing harmoniously through each one. Assess your progress on your spiritual journey, set new goals, and make resolutions for personal growth.
11. Extend Your Celebration to Others:
Navaratri is not just about personal transformation; it’s also about spreading joy and love. Meditate on the cosmic chakras. Share your blessings by donating to charitable causes or helping those in need, as an expression of your devotion to the divine feminine.
12. Conclude with Gratitude:
At the end of Navaratri, offer your gratitude to the goddess for her blessings and guidance. Reflect on the insights gained during this period and carry the spirit of Navaratri with you in your daily life.
Navaratri provides a remarkable opportunity to delve deep within, connect with your 108 chakras, and unlock your divine consciousness. By aligning with the goddesses and their associated qualities, you can harmonize your energy centers, paving the way for spiritual awakening and inner transformation. This Navaratri, let the divine feminine guide you on a journey of self-discovery and divine realization, connecting your inner world with the cosmic creation.
In summary, the best way to celebrate Navaratri is to approach it with a deep sense of devotion, mindfulness, and a commitment to spiritual growth. Whether you choose to fast, meditate, or engage in cultural activities, let the essence of the festival enrich your life, leading you on a path of self-discovery and inner transformation.