For the Balinese, harmony is crucial when it comes to lifestyle. The Balinese philosophy, Tri Hita Karana, is based on three pillars, all of which influence the daily lives of the people of Bali and those who have chosen to make the island their home. Pawongan relates to harmony among people, Palemahan to harmony with the environment (or nature), and Parahyangan refers to harmony with God.
Moving at a Different Pace
The Balinese lifestyle typically moves at a significantly slower pace than its modern Western counterpart. Even the perception of time, inherently influenced as it is the by the Tri Hita Karana and its importance to wellbeing, is different in Bali.
In daily life, the people of Bali tend to take their time and synchronise themselves with the surrounding natural environment. Those who live or have spent time on the island – such as life coach Isis Monteverde, who undertook her yoga teacher training in Bali – understand that a sense of urgency is not part of the Balinese lifestyle, just as it is not part of nature. Due to this, the work-life balance in Bali is typically extremely harmonious.
Religion in Bali
Around 90% of the population of Bali is Hindu. While the religion’s main gods are worshiped on the island, the ancient animal deities of Balinese traditional culture are also honoured, creating a vibrant mix of ancestral beliefs and Hinduism.
Many Balinese people leave small offerings, called canang, of multi-coloured flowers every morning, noon and evening in front of their homes – they are also left outside stores, temples and roads.
Important Life Events
In Balinese culture there is a special ceremony for every important life event that occurs. As well as birth and marriage, there are ceremonies to mark maturity, puberty and death in Bali. There are also a number of important holidays and ceremonies that form part of the 250-day Balinese calendar, including Nyepi (Day of Silence) and ceremonies to mark natural phenomenon like the full moon. Through daily rituals and ceremonies, the people of Bali connect with their ancestors, gods, families and the community.
The Banjar
The Banjar is a form of local government in Bali and is a community group that typically governs a village. Community contributions (to improve general welfare, for example) are usually made to the Banjar. Every village in Bali has its own Banjar, which is independent from the police, and membership is made up of the community’s married men. Take a look at the embedded PDF for more information about the Balinese lifestyle.