Power-packed nine days. The beginning is always associated with feminine energy. While time is considered male, space is always regarded as being feminine and the whole universe is a combination of both time and space. The Navratri or nine holy nights in Hindu tradition signifies new beginnings.

Significance of nine. The universe is made of multiples of three-3, 6 and 9. It takes three forces to make the universe stable. Every atom has neutron, electron and proton-three things to make it stable. We have three stages of consciousness-waking, sleeping and dreaming. Rajas, tamas and sattva are three qualities of Prakriti or nature.

Multiple of the numeral three is nine, and therefore the first three days of Navratri are devoted to tamas, the next three days are reserved for rajas and the last three days are set aside for sattva. The celebration begins with tamas. The unborn baby remains in the mother's womb for nine months and nine days. The baby is secure and comfortable inside and does not have to do anything. The birth of the baby and the coming of the spirit create vibrancy, energy and enthusiasm.

Similarly, the nine days of Navratri reveal the importance of the inward journey which is essential for outward expression. You sow the seed deep into the soil and then it sprouts and grows to become a tree. In the same way, the nine days of Navratri present an opportunity for all to go within and then emerge, ready to create.