The Glow of Lamps, the Glow Within
As the first diya flickers on Diwali night, the world feels softer and warmer. Streets shimmer with golden light. Marigold garlands sway gently, and homes hum with the joy of renewal. Diwali is more than a festival, it is a moment to cleanse, welcome, and balance both spaces and our inner selves.
Every lamp lit outside also reminds us to light the inner flame. Ayurveda, the science of balance and wellness, offers simple rituals to care for the body, mind, and spirit during this season of light.
The Many Stories of Diwali
Diwali is celebrated across India and blends myth, culture, and a sense of renewal. It marks the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and harmony over chaos. The festival is linked to Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, symbolizing joy and new beginnings. It is also connected to Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, and to Goddess Lakshmi, welcoming abundance and prosperity.
Beyond these stories, Diwali brings a shared message, the cleansing of spaces and hearts, the rekindling of hope, and the celebration of balance. Across India, lights, rituals, and offerings create a rhythm that unites people in gratitude, renewal, and inner illumination.
Cleansing as Ritual, Renewal as Tradition
Diwali is not just celebration, it is preparation. Families declutter homes, clean floors, and light diyas to chase away shadows. This cleansing is symbolic. It is about removing old energy and making room for new beginnings.
Ayurveda follows a similar rhythm. Just as homes are refreshed, our bodies can be cleansed, nourished, and balanced. This is especially helpful as the season shifts from autumn to winter, when the body’s rhythms naturally change.
Rituals for Radiant Skin & Hair
1. Abhyanga Snana (Oil Bath):
Before the festival, a warm oil massage is performed. Sesame oil with Manjishtha softens the skin, grounds the mind, cleanses and strengthens the body. This simple ritual helps the body feel calm and ready for the busy festive days.
2. Ubtan (Herbal Scrub):
On Diwali morning, families apply an Ubtan(face and body mask) made from chickpea flour, turmeric, and sandalwood mix with curd or milk. This gentle scrub cleanses the skin, evens texture, and adds a soft glow. It refreshes the body and uplifts the spirit.
3. Hair Care for Calm & Shine Festivities:
A light massage with Bhringraj or Brahmi oil nourishes roots and calms the mind. Applying hibiscus paste before washing can make hair shiny and soft, reflecting the glow of diyas.
Inner Balance During the Festive Rush
1. Seasonal Harmony (Ritusandhi):
The transition from autumn to winter can disturb the Vata dosha, causing dryness and restlessness. Simple rituals like oil massages, warm meals, and rest help the body stay balanced.
2. Sattvic Festive Foods:
Sweets are central to Diwali, but Ayurveda encourages balance. Using ghee, cardamom, nuts, and jaggery keeps treats light and nourishing. Mindful eating supports digestion (agni) and keeps the inner flame steady.
3. Pause for the Mind:
Before lighting diyas, a few minutes of anulom-vilom (alternate nostril breathing) or meditation helps calm the mind. Even a short pause can bring clarity and center the spirit amidst festive activity.
The Deeper Message of Diwali
Diwali is a time for new beginnings. Ledgers are closed, debts are settled, and doors are opened for fresh starts. Ayurveda echoes this idea, each season invites us to reset, realign, and step forward with clarity.
The lamps of Diwali remind us of the fire that burns inside, our Agni, or digestive fire. Just like a lamp needs oil to shine, our inner fire needs good food and care to stay strong. When Agni is steady, we feel light, clear, and full of energy. But when it weakens, our health and mood lose balance. By keeping this fire bright with simple rituals and mindful choices, we can glow from within, just like the lamps that light our homes.
Closing Reflection
Diwali is not just celebrated, it is experienced. It is in the rhythm of cleaning, sharing sweets, and sitting quietly and experiencing the warmth of renewal, reflection, and radiant beginnings.
This Diwali, extend the rituals inward. Cleanse your body, calm your mind, and light your inner balance. Ayurveda offers simple ways to make this festival not only joyful but also deeply nourishing, for our body and soul.
