On the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, Goldy Nagdev elaborates on how the use of fragrance aids meditation
When is the last time you meditated because of your hectic schedule? Amidst the pandemic, we are all dealing with mental and physical stress. That is when we think of mediation for a while.
Now that the festive season has arrived, it is a good time to greet Lord Ganesha with all of the enthusiasm and zeal. From Ganapati Bappa Morya’s cheers to painted pandals to lit up sites of worship to the preparation of modak in every home, it is that time of the year when devotees leave no stone tuned to greet Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings.
Almost all Indian celebrations include diya, lighting, and decorations. Using diya, decorative candles, and string lights to light up your puja space can add a shine to your decor. In the puja room, you can use string lights, diya, and scented candles in front of the mandap. It will add to the brightness and vibrancy of your décor.
The importance of fragrance in worship helps to connect spiritually. The magnificent fragrance from perfumes and incense sticks was originated in ancient India. These fragrances calm or soothe our spirits from within. We tend to meditate while praying so that we can focus on something we wish to do without any difficulty.
Due to hectic lifestyle, meditation helps in relaxing while redirecting your energy, and improving your overall health. However, the obligations and distractions make it difficult in the beginning of meditation. In such circumstances, aromatherapy comes to rescue.
Aromatherapy is the practice of inhaling essential oil-derived scents that assists in managing emotions and promotes healthy life. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, frankincense, and others can be used to combine aromatherapy and meditation. These oils will enhance your meditation experience, while also offering mental clarity and serenity. You may get these fragrances blended in a variety of incense sticks.
The ancient vedic school of Ayurveda teaches about the deeper holistic science behind the stimulation of the senses when people come into contact with scents and feel their therapeutic effects. Perfumes’ restores our hearts, spirits, and senses, in all of their forms, can be best described as spiritual, healing, and liberating from egoic servitude.
Outlined below is one way how you may integrate an incense stick as part of your daily meditation. However, don’t forget, consistency is key!
Effects of fragrance
The aroma of plants, spices, and herbs has medicinal and therapeutic effects, and it is incredibly significant to our psychology. You need to remain quiet. Relaxing the mind becomes increasingly important as our lives get more hectic and muddled. Meditation with essential oils has a healing effect on both the mind and the body.
It is thought that the aroma is pleasing to God and has a purifying effect. The lamp shines brightly, dispelling the negative energy that has taken over the puja grounds. Diffusers with essential oils create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. You might also use scented candles as an alternative.
So be ready to refresh youself in this Ganapati festival!
(The author is the managing director of Hari Darshan Sevashram Pvt Ltd, a home-grown brand for incense products.)