Caring for the Soul, Preserving Culture: Building Mental Health Based on Religion and Traditions of the Balinese People

This qualitative research examines the role of the Hindu religious system (philosophy, rituals, spiritual practices) and Balinese cultural traditions as a mechanism of care and resilience for Balinese mental health, as well as its adaptation in the modern era. The methods used were participatory observation, in-depth interviews, literature study, and content analysis techniques. Data analysis used the framework of Functionalism Theory (Durkheim) to reveal the function of Hindu rituals, resilience theory (Ungar) to analyze Balinese cultural traditions, and the concept of hybridity (Bhabha) to reveal modern adaptation and its implications. The results show that Hindu rituals (malukat, tirta yatra, trisandya, tapa brata, and japa mantra) are able to create a reflective space, lower stress hormones (cortisol), increase brain relaxation, stabilize emotions, and build mental discipline through sacred connections. Balinese cultural traditions strengthen multidimensional psychological resilience, such as ngayah building social cohesion, canang sari making practicing symbolic patience, connection with nature (nyegara gunung), and sound/aroma therapy inducing inner calm and positive neuroplasticity. In the midst of modernization, adaptation creates a dualistic paradigm, where technology-based innovations (apps, e-commerce, virtual malukat packages) can expand access to mental health and preserve the tri hita karana philosophy globally, while giving rise to a local wellness economy. However, this risks cultural commodification, reduction of sacred meaning, cultural dilution, and sacrifice of authenticity if not managed ethically.