Many people wonder if there is
any spiritual significance to the designs seen in henna, oftentimes wondering
if they are going to unintentionally insult someone by choosing a particular
design. The short answer is NO, you will
not be offending anyone by enjoying henna!
Overall, the practice of henna is very inclusive and unifying.
The act
itself of applying henna is symbolic, as the artist and the recipient of the
henna share a bond and closeness through the process. There is talking, relaxation, and physical
touch associated with henna application, and the act of applying henna is a symbol
of celebration. This connection and
bonding is one of the reasons henna is a traditional element of wedding
celebrations.
Patience
and time are also symbolized in the art of henna itself: one must practice stillness while the design
is being applied, and then must wait for the paste to flake off naturally, and
wait longer for the stain to fully develop.
Henna represents cycles and stages in life, as it requires a time to
develop, and a time to fade before something new can be created in its
place. Henna is a reminder of the need
for quietness, peace, and patience in our lives.
Henna is a very social
practice, and it is commonly enjoyed surrounded by others, like at festivals,
bachelorette parties, birthday parties, or shared between friends as DIY skills
are improved. (Interested in trying it
yourself? Get your hands on a BeginnerDIY Kit, or Pregnancy DIY kit!).
What does
henna symbolize for you? Friendship? Community?
Inner peace? Beauty? Connection to nature and history? Comment below and let us know!