Ritual
“I look for the sacred in everyday living.” ~ Robyn Lee
Many think of ritual in terms of culture and religion. The word ritual is actually from Indo-European language and means “to fit together” implying the joining together of the spiritual world with the physical world. Since ancient times most have appreciated the power of ritual and regarded it as sacred.
In American culture we frequently interpret ritual in a traditional sense, referring to birthdays and holidays and other special occasions or religious ceremonies. Really though, sacred ritual can be a comforting part of everyday living…reflected in simple daily activities.
For me, what truly defines something as sacred ritual, is the level of awareness and attention we give whatever it is we are doing.
So, for example, if I go for a nature walk and I am worrying about how I’m going to get the laundry done when I get home… I’m not in ritual (even if it’s at the same time and place every day).
If I’m witnessing a sunset, and I’m consumed with the fact that my fingers are going numb from the sub-freezing temperatures, I need to acknowledge that, even with that magnificent sun going down before me on the pristine beach, I’m not in ritual.
I have come to appreciate the value and essence of ritual in daily living. Ritual brings me to a place of peace and centeredness and offers me a calm that goes a long way once I return to stressful or challenging tasks of daily living.
Here are just a few examples of what rituals might look like:
- witnessing the sun go down…or come up
- cooking or enjoying a delicious meal
- mindful exercise
- washing dishes (yes – can work!) 🙂
- sipping a special glass of wine…or a cup of coffee/tea
- indulging in your favorite brand of chocolate
- or simply sinking into a warm bath illuminated by candlelight and soothing music playing before bed
It doesn’t really matter what the action is — just acting with the focussed intention to appreciate, and being fully present in that moment makes it ritual.
It’s really all about intention.
Now, who would have thought it could be that easy to connect with the sacred!
Much Love, Robyn Lee
click here to return to feature photo: Ritual« THROUGH THE HEALING LENS
THROUGH THE HEALING LENS 
So much food for thought here – I love your blog!
March 3, 2012 at 11:42 PM
Thank you so much jm! Always a challenge deciding ow much to share. I expect some will be more interested in my coping strategies than others…but even if I can offer a pearl to one person, I’m happy!
March 4, 2012 at 12:14 AM
Robyn,
Firstly, another beautiful picture! Secondly, thank you for all you do share. I thoroughly enjoy your blog entries and especially ones offering solutions to stress…and everday problems. It’s been a challenging week and this is just what I needed to read! Thank you ❤
March 4, 2012 at 3:43 PM
Oh Elizabeth thank you so much. I am sorry to hear your week was a tough one. We are likely in the same vibration – even if you are on across the country! Appreciate your letting me know this was helpful. Sending hugs and healing wishes your way!! xo R
March 4, 2012 at 6:35 PM
Robyn — this is a beautifully written essay! Appreciate your description and how you reveal some of your own rituals as well as what makes them so.
March 6, 2012 at 8:31 PM
Thanks so much Ivy. Yes – these are definitely some of my favorites!
March 6, 2012 at 8:44 PM
Or writing, reading, laughing, listening, or just sitting quietly and holding a favorite memory in mind. Gorgeous! ~Warm Regards, Dan
January 9, 2013 at 2:25 PM
Thank you Dan — you said it all so beautifully here. I love these kinds of rituals — it’s all about intention – the activity is very much secondary I think. Much Love ~ R
January 9, 2013 at 5:16 PM