I took some time off of social media to really immerse myself in the Easter Week here in Greece. In the Greek Orthodox faith, Easter is the most sacred observance. There are so many beautiful traditions passed on from generations. Traditional Easter bread, Tsoureki, is baked and eggs are dyed red to represent the blood of Christ. Special candles are made for Easter called lambades, which are often given to children as gifts from their parents or Godparents. Right after midnight on Holy Saturday (this year it was done at 9pm), the Priest calls out "Christos Anesti" and passes the flame to those nearest him. Candles are lit from person to person and brought home to bless and protect the home. The sight of hundreds of candles moving from churches to homes on that night is one of the most beautiful things that you can see. The main attraction is always the breaking of the fast with a whole lamb on Easter Sunday. These are just a few of the amazing greek traditions that continue to make me fall more in love with this country and it’s people.
This year the holiday took on a new meaning for me. As we have all spent over a year on lockdown, the celebration was not as grand but the definition of it was more present than ever.
Easter is a time for rebirth, a time for faith, a time to believe. As Greece is beginning it’s first phase in opening up again, I hope you are able to also believe and trust that good things are coming. I pray that you find happiness and this year has been a year of positive growth. I grew so much this past year. I’ve realized more than ever the importance of family and community. I’ve also fully understood that your mind is your most powerful tool and it needs the same amount of care that you provide to your body. The biggest growth for me was personal growth. What have you learned about yourself during this time?
Here’s to a new month, a new season and new beginnings. Brighter days are coming...
#BREATHE #ChristosAnesti #MentalHealth #MentalFitness #BreatheXPeakState
Holy Day
