Nyepi

Today, I am celebrating a day of internal silence, lighting a candle to remember and celebrate a wonderful spirit.

“Nyepi” is a Hindu holiday celebrated only in Bali, a festival of silence. During this day the whole island shuts down, and people do self-reflection. Balinese do not go to work, do not travel and do not make any noise for 24 hours (some do not talk or eat anything). Tourists are not exempt. They are not allowed to go to the beach or into the streets and are fined if caught. Observed from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, it is a day reserved for self-reflection, and as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. The main restrictions are no lighting fires (and lights must be kept low); no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no traveling; and, for some, no talking or eating at all. Last year, Balinese cell phone providers shut off their internet service for 24 hours to comply with Nyepi. The following day is their New Year, known as Ngembak Geni (Relighting the Fire). Social activity picks up again quickly, as families and friends gather to ask forgiveness from one another, and to perform certain religious rituals together. Fires and electricity are allowed again, and cooking of food resumes.

via {bailey}