Melukat as nature-based therapy: a cross-sectional descriptive study

Abstract

Modernization has intensified mental health challenges in contemporary society, necessitating interventions that resonate with local cultural and spiritual values. This study explores the Balinese ritual of melukat as a form of nature-based therapy that integrates traditional purification practices with psychological well-being. The research aims to characterize the ritual's therapeutic mechanisms and assess its relevance within modern mental health frameworks. Employing a cross-sectional descriptive design, data were collected from 26 participants in Denpasar, Bali, through an anonymous online survey. The instrument assessed demographic variables, motivations for the ritual, and perceived psychological outcomes, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results reveal that family influence remains a primary driver of ritual performance (65.4%), indicating that melukat is a deeply embedded domestic tradition. Participants reported substantial improvements in emotional tranquility, reduced anxiety, and enhanced sleep quality following the practice. Furthermore, the high rate of intended future participation suggests that melukat is perceived as a critical component of ongoing psychological self-care rather than a mere ceremonial obligation. This study concludes that melukat represents a significant culturally integrated intervention that bridges indigenous wisdom and psychological science. These findings advocate for the inclusion of such rituals within culturally sensitive therapy models to provide more contextualized and inclusive mental health care. Future investigations should utilize longitudinal designs and validated psychological scales to provide objective evidence of long-term therapeutic efficacy.