Indonesian Approaches to Mental Well-Being
Indonesia’s approach to well-being is all about embracing its rich cultural heritage and traditions. From gotong royong (mutual cooperation) that brings people together, to rituals like melukat and meditation, there’s something special about how Indonesians take care of their mental and emotional health.
Indonesians value Guyub Rukun. Guyub meaning togetherness or unity; and Rukun meaning harmony inwards (in our hearts) and outwardly (in our relationships), balancing inward reflection and outward action.
Let’s dive into each of these beautiful practices and see how we can learn from the culture and traditions:
1. Spirituality and beliefs
In Indonesia, spirituality is like a beautiful tapestry, woven from a mix of religions and cultures. Here, you’ll find Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Confucians, and Christians living side by side, each finding comfort in their unique beliefs. For many Indonesians, spiritual practices are a source of solace. Daily rituals—like prayers, meditation, or quiet moments of reflection—help create a much-needed pause in our fast-paced lives, offering peace and relief from stress.
But spirituality here goes beyond organized religions. With its rich ethnic diversity, Indonesia is home to indigenous customs and beliefs too. For instance, animism teaches that the divine can be found in nature itself. Many people participate in rituals like melukat, a cleansing ceremony popular in Bali, to refresh their minds and souls. These practices not only promote emotional renewal but also remind us of our deep connection to the world around us.
2. Nature's healing touch
Indonesia’s stunning landscapes are not just pretty sights; they play a big role in our daily lives and well-being. From lush rainforests to breathtaking beaches, nature here offers a unique sense of peace and balance. This connection with the natural world helps foster mindfulness, allowing us to appreciate the delicate bond we share with our environment.
Whether it’s a mountain hike, a day at the beach, or a simple local park, many Indonesians find comfort in nature. These experiences not only promote relaxation and mental clarity but also help us connect more deeply with ourselves and the world.
Plus, as Indonesia has a rich tradition of herbal remedies, many people enjoy herbal drinks known for their health benefits, helping to combat stress and fatigue. This holistic approach to well-being reflects the country’s enduring relationship with its beautiful landscapes.
3. The power of community
In Indonesia, community is everything. Our diverse culture thrives on strong social connections that prioritize the collective over the individual. As highlighted by Jetten et al. (2002), communal gatherings—like weddings and religious festivals—are important opportunities for strengthening bonds and creating a sense of belonging. This focus on togetherness underscores the idea that community well-being matters just as much as individual happiness.
4. Generosity as a way of life
Indonesia is well-known for its generous spirit. In 2024, the country was recognized as the world’s most generous nation for the seventh year running by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) World Giving Index. An amazing 90% of Indonesians donated to social causes, and 65% volunteered their time, showcasing our commitment to helping one another.
The tradition of gotong royong, or mutual cooperation, perfectly captures this community spirit. By lending a hand to neighbours or contributing to local projects, we foster a sense of belonging and purpose that helps ease stress and anxiety.
Sharing food is also a deeply ingrained cultural practice that strengthens social bonds and reinforces feelings of support within our communities. These small acts of kindness and collaboration greatly enhance both personal and societal well-being in Indonesia.
5. Cultivating gratitude and acceptance
Gratitude is a cornerstone of Indonesian culture. Daily prayers are a way for many to express thanks for the blessings in life, while accepting life’s challenges is seen as part of the journey. This mindset fosters resilience and helps reduce stress by keeping us focused on the present and allowing us to embrace what we can’t control.
Influenced by religious and cultural teachings, many Indonesians express gratitude through moments of reflection and prayer. We often thank a higher power for the good things in our lives, which helps cultivate a positive mindset and emotional strength. The practice of ikhlas—sincere acceptance—encourages us to let go of what we can’t control and trust that there’s a bigger purpose at play. This perspective offers a peaceful way to navigate life’s ups and downs.
Remember, well-being practices can vary across cultures. What works for one person may not be suitable for another. It's essential to consider your individual needs and cultural background when exploring well-being strategies.
Our story
Founded by two Indonesian entrepreneurs in 2020, The Self Hug creates well-being tools and workshops to support your journey to becoming your best self. Partnering with retailers worldwide, we make our tools accessible to help you thrive.
Inspired by Indonesia’s timeless practices like gratitude and mindfulness, we blend local values with a global approach to well-being. Our mission is simple: to help you find the right tools to live a balanced and mindful life, no matter where you are.
