<![CDATA[Background: The rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Bali Province remains at 73.2%, below the national target of 80%. The strong influence of Balinese Hindu culture, rooted in the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana and various traditional practices, shapes breastfeeding behaviors. Objectives: To explore the experiences and cultural challenges faced by Balinese Hindu mothers in achieving exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: This qualitative study employed an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) design, involving 15 participants: 10 breastfeeding mothers, 2 traditional leaders, 1 husband, and 1 mother-in-law from Buleleng and Denpasar, Bali. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. Data were analyzed using the IPA framework with computer-assisted tools. Results: Eight major themes emerged: (1) The influence of Hindu spiritual values on breastfeeding practices through the concepts of Kanda Pat, Karma Phala, and Swadarma; (2) Traditions and taboos, including the notions of sebel/reged and dietary restrictions; (3) Family dynamics involving the role of in-laws and spousal support; (4) Specific cultural challenges such as conflicts between ritual obligations and exclusive breastfeeding; (5) Adaptive strategies through negotiation and compromise; (6) Impact and reflections on the breastfeeding experience; (7) Mystical beliefs influencing practices; and (8) Special cases related to the manak salah tradition. Among the 10 mothers, 6 successfully practiced exclusive breastfeeding, while 4 faced cultural barriers. Conclusion: The exclusive breastfeeding experiences of Balinese Hindu mothers reflect the complex interplay of spiritual, traditional, social, and practical dimensions. While Hindu spiritual values provide strong motivation, certain cultural traditions pose significant challenges. Flexible interpretations of Hindu practices offer opportunities for aligning traditional beliefs with modern health knowledge. These findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive breastfeeding promotion interventions within the Balinese Hindu community. Keywords: exclusive breastfeeding; balinese hindu culture; interpretative phenomenology; tri hita karana; kanda pat]]>
