Aashada has something; that alters the energy in our environment. Skies turn dark, air turns cool and rains come with that element of tranquil introspection. This is a very heavy month as far as the spiritual aspect is concerned it is so much in the sense that all through this period many individuals take time off to examine themselves in order to get back on track. It is likely, that if you have been brought up in a particular number of traditions, then you might recall revered elders uttering, Aashada is not to celebrate anything, but to be devoted. And well they were right.
Although one cannot escape big events such as marriages during this month, the vacuum they occupy is filled with something more meaningful prayers, fasting, waking up early to chant and balcony rituals, all of which feel so soothing.
and one thing that always comes striking to me at Aashada? The incense aroma.
Aashada and the Shift to Inward
Aashada (or Ashadha), measured at June-July, is the start of the four-month spiritual season by the Hindu calendar called Chaturmasya. It begins with the Shayana Ekadashi which is a day during which Lord Vishnu is believed to enter into the cosmic sleep. This is then followed by self discipline, dedication and keeping in resonance with the small beats in life.
The South Indians reserve the Fridays of the Aashada month of special importance to the Goddess Lakshmi or Durga. Houses are swept, candles are lit and prayers are put, not in the hope of big desires, but praying to protect, to live in peace and gain inner strength. At Maharashtra Ashadhi Ekadashi is the most famous Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur, a ceremony that confines worship as well as strength.
The place of Incense in Aashada
Being honest, it is difficult to think of Indian prayer ritual without incense. But in the season of Aashada, its role seems so accentuated.
There is a feeling of calmness that comes about by burning either a stick of sandalwood or loban during the early morning hours or during sundown. The smoke drifts gently up, curling the air all around and then the world is more silent. Not only that: it should be about the tone. Your message to yourself, and space is indicative
Does incense cleanse the air? Yes; but it also apparently, calms the thoughts. Even I can be chanting a mantra, reading a sloka or sit to contemplate and that sweet smell will enter the scene. It shakes you down.
Meditation in Aashada?
When Aashada is a time you use to become introspective (and it is so to many), incense can be surprisingly useful. Here's how:
- It becomes a signal: When you light incense your brain gets the signal that it is time to be still. It is that little ritual that counts.
- The charge of the perfume grounds you: Whenever your head drifts off (and it always does), you can amount calmly back to the smell of the air. It assists you to be in the moment.
- It makes silence more effective: The slow smoke of incense fills a quiet room and makes the silence full--not hollow.
- It does not require anything special. All that is needed is a plain sandalwood or frankincense stick. It is the intention that counts more.
Incense to be burned in Aashada
In case you want to be in accordance with mood of Aashada, you may consider the following incense:
Suwarn Sugandh: Relaxing, traditional, and great to use during meditation or the morning ceremony.
Harmony: A bit more intense, it is excellent at making a very spiritual environment.
Flower Forest: Traditionally used in temples, is especially good in the evenings.
Blossom: It is perfect when performing pujas in Aashada Fridays, particularly goddess worship.
Aashada Is a Mood- Let incense occupy the Space
The goal of Aashada is not to do more. It is less but being more present. Slowing down. Relaxing to noise. So whether you are doing a full Lakshmi puja, or the little simple effort before you prepare to sleep such as a diya that you burn it, the incense can help keep that sacred space there with you.
So this month, when the rains come and the world is tender, burn a stick of incense. Envelop it in your senses. May it teach you that there are times when it is when things are the least dramatic that they are the mightiest.
