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For many indigenous peoples, particularly those of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Andes, the calendar is measured not only by dates, but by natural cycles. The ‘New Year’ is not a festive occasion centred on making resolutions, but a time of responsibility, gratitude and rebalancing. At this time of year, until mid-January, communities make their way up into the mountains to their sacred sites to carry out traditional rituals guided by the mamos (traditional leaders). These practices include ‘pagamentos’ (offerings), acts of reciprocity towards nature: symbolically giving back what has been taken (water, wood, food, etc.) through prayer or through offerings appropriate to each sacred site. These acts are essential for maintaining the balance of life.

Their calendar is closely linked to the rhythms of the Earth: solstices, equinoxes, sowing and harvesting cycles, and times dedicated to seeds, water or forests. For example, between 1 and 15 February, a period of saneamiento (purification and renewal of nature’s energy) takes place. It is at this time that Tayrona National Park closes to tourists to allow the spiritual authorities to carry out their traditional rituals.

Understanding the ‘New Year’ according to these cultures means recognising that we are part of nature, and not the other way round. It is a time to give thanks, to give back, to care for, and to remember that if nature is out of balance, so are we.

Rather than wishing someone a “happy new year” in the Western sense, we can wish them a year of balance, reciprocity and harmony with the cycles of life.

The Tchendukua team – Here and Elsewhere.

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