Rituals in Communities

Rituals have been around for centuries.
They’re an essential part of being human.

Many communities, in many different cultures, countries and societies have practised rituals together to promote self-belief, positive well-being, a sense of belonging and continuity.

In communities, rituals play a vital role in bringing people together and reinforcing social bonds. From religious traditions to the modern way of working in the office, they are used to mark important events and changes like births, social changes, weddings, professional achievements and more.

Rituals can appear in many forms like women’s circles, team briefings, family get-togethers etc. But regardless of their form, rituals serve to create a shared experience that connects people and strengthens their sense of community. It doesn’t require much effort either! (Pretty cool hey?!)

An example of a ritual that has been embedded in Mexican culture is Diá de Muertos (Day of the Dead). On this historical day every year, families come together to remember and honour their loved ones who have passed away. Whether in the cemeteries or in their homes, they build altars, light candles and give food and drink to the spirits of their ancestors. This ritual allows their families to stay connected with the past and celebrate the inevitable cycle of life.

Rituals in women’s communities can be hugely powerful.

Over the years, with women not having the social status as men, communities and rituals were built so members could support each other through difficult times. Many women’s experiences were taboo subjects in society. Menstruation, childbirth and sexuality were seen as things that should only be spoken about ‘behind closed doors’ or even not spoken about at all, so having a safe space for women to discuss these topics, led to women celebrating their desires and experiences.

Check out Abi Adam’s Project Woman Collective here.

An example of a ritual in women's communities is the Red Tent. Originally started by the Native American tribe, Ojibwe, to honour their menstruation and educate the younger women in their tribe. Now, this ritual is a gathering of women during the new moon to share stories, support one another, and celebrate their femininity. This ritual provides a safe and supportive space for women to connect and honour their experiences and perspectives.

How can rituals reduce stress?

Rituals in communities give us structure. And most importantly a sense that we’re still all working towards a similar goal. Whether that be social change, improving the diversity, accessibility and inclusivity in our communities or maybe even the goal to make six figures in our businesses.

To get to these goals, it can be pretty stressful right?

Change doesn’t come easy and shaking up the narrative can be difficult. It doesn’t have to be all serious though, researchers asked a group to sing ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ which has some amazing results. See article here.

But what other ways can rituals reduce stress?

Rituals build a sense of purpose.

By coming together to celebrate shared values and beliefs, people form stronger bonds and a sense of family. This is especially crucial in diverse, oppressed communities or where people may have different backgrounds and experiences.

Working together can create a sense of pride and hope for the future. By finding common ground, rituals can help people feel less lonely and more connected to others around them, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.

Promoting Healing and Reconciliation.

Rituals can also be used to promote healing and overcome personal trauma in communities. Of course, 1:1 therapy can be wonderful. But by coming together to acknowledge past conflicts and commit to a different future, people can build bridges and create peace. This is super important in communities that have a history of violence and social oppression.

By using rituals to promote healing and reconciliation, communities can decrease feelings of sadness, anxiety and stress.

And create a safe, supportive and inclusive space for all.

What 4 rituals can be used to strengthen bonds and understanding in communities?

Gratitude circles.

A gratitude circle is simple but really effective.

They can be practised in pretty much any community or network. Among colleagues, social groups, families and others. Discussing what you’re individually grateful for can build appreciation and motivation and align goals. Gratitude circles can also be about declaring what you’re grateful for in others. Thanksgiving in America, is a great example of this.

To perform a gratitude circle, members gather in a circle and one by one share something that they are grateful for. This can be done as a regular practice, perhaps once a day in a team meeting, over dinner with family, in the mirror at home whilst getting ready or during social meet-ups.

Get into nature together.

It’s no secret getting into nature makes us feel connected and promotes healthy well-being. This study by Science Direct says spending just 20 minutes around water can boost your mental health.

So why not get out in nature with your community? A walk in a forest? Or arrange a meet-up overlooking some water?

Storytelling night.

Similar to the ritual performed at Red Tent, storytelling is a powerful way to connect with others and share experiences. And it’s been around for years and years. Religious texts were read to large communities in times of turmoil.

Storytelling allows us to open up and have the opportunity to connect with those around us through shared experiences.

It can encourage us to be sympathetic, and view the world through someone else’s lens thus being more receptive to others around us.

If you want to organise a storytelling night, you can ask members to prepare a story in advance or to share a story off-the-cuff. The stories can be about anything, from personal experiences to anything they are unsure about or want to get clarity over. No judgement must be made during these sessions. Feedback is normally only given if permitted.

By sharing their stories, participants can build stronger connections and gain a deeper understanding of one another.

So are you ready to implement some rituals into your community?

So here you have it.

A little deep-dive into why rituals can be pretty community-changing if practised. The invaluable tool of routine, creating belonging and shared goals can be powerful. Rituals provide a sense of identity, continuity, and connection, as well as opportunities for celebration, support, and healing.

There are many ways in which communities can use rituals to strengthen their bonds and build resilience.

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