Stepping into Bali, travelers from Western cultures are often struck by the island's vibrant traditions and deep spiritual beliefs. During my three incredible weeks of holidaying and traveling around Indonesia, I was privileged to explore the rich mosaic of Balinese culture, where every aspect of life is filled with meaning and spirituality. Among the many fascinating elements of Balinese Hinduism, one belief stood out as a symbol of universal balance: Tri Hita Karana.

As a local Balinese named Ketut explained to me in Ubud, Tri Hita Karana is both a symbol and a way of life for the Balinese. It encapsulates three guiding principles that reflect the core values of Balinese society and their approach to living in harmony with the world around them.

1. Relationship Harmony and Mutual Respect

The first principle of Tri Hita Karana emphasises the importance of relationship harmony and mutual respect. In Balinese culture, everyone is seen as part of a larger community, where cooperation and mutual support are essential. This principle was beautifully illustrated to me by Ketut, a local from Ibud, who shared stories of how the village community comes together to celebrate life's milestones—births, weddings, and other significant events. In Bali, no one can isolate themselves; everyone........

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