Durga
Durga is the fierce form of Shakti, the warrior goddess created by the combined powers of all the gods to defeat the buffalo demon Mahishasura whom no male god could destroy. She rides a lion or tiger, carries weapons in her eight or ten arms given by each god, and battles demons with fierce compassion — destroying evil, not the evil-doer's soul. Navratri, nine nights of worship, celebrates her nine forms (Navadurga). She is the embodiment of the protective mother who will fight to the last.
Stand tall, feet hip-width apart. Take a slow, full breath and feel strength rise from your feet through your spine. Say to yourself: 'I have the strength to face this.' That strength is Durga.
Best at sunrise — invoke Durga's protection at the start of each day.