The Paradox of Westerners Teaching Spirituality in Bali: A Personal Reflection

Having come to Bali for over 15 years as a tourist, I find it paradoxical that many Westerners come here to teach spirituality to tourists. In my personal experience, I’ve come to believe that the most authentic way to reconnect with our spirituality is not through Western teachings or new-age practices, but by observing and learning from the Balinese people themselves.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to witness how the Balinese live their spirituality. Their connection to spirituality is deeply embedded in daily life, from the rituals they practice to the way they interact with one another. What truly stands out is the simplicity and sincerity with which they integrate spirituality into their lives. It is not something they “teach” or perform for others to admire; it is simply who they are.

A Disappointing Experience in Yoga Classes

Recently, I attended several beginner yoga classes in Bali, mostly taught by Western instructors, in what was supposed to be a renowned yoga pavilion. I wasn’t looking for anything profound; I just wanted to move and do something for myself. But to my surprise, I left feeling disappointed not by the physical practice, but by the overwhelming amount of spiritual jargon and the lack of connection between the instructors and the clients.

None of the instructors took the time to explain anything meaningful about the class, nor did they offer any practical advice for staying safe while practicing. What frustrated me the most, though, was the constant stream of spiritual nonsense. There were phrases like “Stop your thoughts” and “Feel your heart,” as if these vague and abstract statements were supposed to offer some deep spiritual insight. It felt more like spiritual fluff than anything of substance, and it added no real value to the practice or the experience. Some instructors even threw in classics like “Let the universe guide your breath” or “Let go of your ego, and let your soul dance”—as if breathing needed divine intervention, or my ego was some kind of cosmic villain to be defeated.

I wasn’t looking for spiritual guidance—I was simply there to move my body—but instead, I got a dose of “spirituality” that felt disconnected from the actual purpose of the class. This experience left me questioning why so many classes here prioritize sounding “spiritual” over actually engaging with the people in the room.

Learning from the Balinese People

What I’ve come to realize is that the Balinese are the true teachers of spirituality. Their practices are not based on trends or philosophies; they are rooted in centuries of tradition and a deep, unwavering commitment to community, family, and respect for the natural world.

One of the most striking qualities of the Balinese is their discipline. They wake up early each morning to prepare offerings for the gods, and they take time throughout the day to honor the divine through small but meaningful rituals. This discipline and devotion to their spiritual practices go beyond mere religious observance; it is a way of life.

What is equally impressive is how the Balinese engage with others. They treat everyone with respect, kindness, and humility, regardless of who you are or where you come from. Their spirituality is not about grand gestures or spiritual posturing. Instead, it is expressed in their everyday actions—the way they greet each other, how they take care of their families, and how they care for the environment around them.

Above all, the Balinese place a great emphasis on the value of service. It’s clear that their spirituality is not just for themselves; it is about how they contribute to their communities. Whether through the preparation of offerings, their dedication to preserving their culture, or simply helping others in need, the Balinese live with a sense of purpose that is deeply connected to service. This selflessness is woven into the fabric of their spirituality, and it teaches us that true spiritual fulfillment comes not from what we receive, but from what we give.

Why We Should Learn from the Balinese

As tourists or outsiders, we often come to Bali looking for something—whether it’s spirituality, peace, or transformation. But I believe the best way to find this is not through the teachings of Westerners who may have only scratched the surface of spiritual practices. Instead, we can learn far more by observing and engaging with the way the Balinese live.

Their values—family, respect, humility, discipline, and service—are the foundation of their spirituality. They don’t talk about “feeling your heart” or “stopping your thoughts” to sound spiritual. Instead, they simply live their values, and their spirituality is reflected in the way they treat each other and the world around them.

If you are planning to visit Bali, take the time to observe and learn from the Balinese. Their way of life offers a far more profound and enriching experience than any “spiritual class” could provide. The true essence of spirituality is found in the way we serve others and live with integrity, and the Balinese excel at both.

By Kenyi Diaz

Wellbeing coach

www.kenyidiaz.com