Early Monday morning I greeted a tired 17 travelers as they finally reached India. After a couple hours of sleep we woke before the sun and walked the beach promenade together. A peaceful start to the busy roller coaster of a day.
Breakfast, coffee, shopping, more shopping, wifi, and question after question. The morning was a busy blur but by the time the afternoon rolled around, we were able to collect ourselves for the welcome meeting. Shiv and Puja presented us with beautiful lotus buds and guided the group through an introduction. It was so wonderful to hear from everyone and get an understanding on where they were at. It reignited a spark in me that had been burned out since leaving India, and I became overwhelmingly optimistic for our journey that lies ahead.
We watched the end of the sunset from the rooftop, had breakfast for dinner, and crashed hard after a short debrief. The next morning we all walked over for a 6am meditation at the ashram commemorating the final day of rest for Sri Aurobindo. We left peacefully and had another delicious Indian breakfast, complete with the sinfully sweet milk coffee.
That morning we had a powerful session on self-management through knowing oneself from a deeper place within. There was a central focus on our unique gifts and how to cultivate positivity within ourselves, complete with the opportunity to share with others the strengths we see in them. But it is difficult for me to write about this because it was such a moving and unique experience for each individual. I came out of it overflowing with positivity towards myself and the beautiful humans around me.
After that we were able to meet with Vijaybhai in his home for a warm welcome to India. We discussed our passions, service, and education. We left feeling prepared to to finally head over to SARVAM, the village school.
The long bumpy road finally brought us to a place I felt instantly at home again. The children swarmed us as always and I don't think I lost the smile on my face for hours. Some of them even remembered me from last year! We instantly played and ran around and explored and laughed until the time to leave snuck up on us. I still feel energized from seeing them yesterday which will carry me through to when we get to see them later today.
This morning began our sunrise yogasana sessions, and it felt oh so good. I came out of it feeling totally relaxed and at peace. Enjoyed a breakfast and tea as some rain came down outside. We missed the worst of it, leaving the most beautiful blue sky overhead today.
We have three morning sessions before going to the school today: Indian philosophy, integral health, and body consciousness. We are staying so busy, but in the best way imaginable!
