The Importance of Rituals

Not A Routine. Not A Habit

A routine is something we do without thinking.  Like brushing our teeth in morning, or pouring a cup of coffee before answering emails.

A tradition is a ritual that has been transferred from generation to generation.  Like making certain recipes at Christmas time, or spending summers at the beach.

Rituals are a way of defining what is meaningful and important.  Brushing your teeth may be important, but the value of a ritual comes from  "Its ability to connect you to a larger context that clarifies your relationship to yourself, others and your place in the universe."

Michael Davis "Rituals".

Video clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow8zJjZ5y60  The Importance of Rituals - Swami Vedananda