I always dreamt of going to India. So when it finally happened I was ecstatic. I was on my yogi journey and loving it. My group was on a spiritual pilgrimage together. It was my first big trip without a loved one so I was nervous. And I missed my husband like crazy! But I marched on. Everyday proved to be powerful and magical in its own way.
For me it wasn’t only a yoga trip. But it was also a way for me to connect to my heritage. My Indian father is very proud when it comes to his culture and some of that rubbed off on me. I’ve always been proud to say I’m half Indian. It was January 2018 and I was off to a land of many treasures and history. But also the land where my ancestors came from.
Imagine a place where there are so many bright colors every where you look. From the architecture to the people’s clothing. It was gorgeous!
Before I left, some travel enthusiasts gave some suggestions on things to do and what to bring. For instance; I was warned to expect many different and unusual smells and to dress modestly. So I went prepared. Scarf and essential oils near by at all times. But neither affected my trip at all.
The only thing people should have warned me about is the dung! In certain areas like Rishikesh; cow manure is very prevalent. So I would say watch where you walk! Also watch for the monkeys who steal things like sunshades from right off your head! But even so, I was happy to hop around avoiding cow poop and sketchy monkeys because we were surrounded by beauty! The kind of beauty where you feel your senses on overload.
It’s funny how quick you can grow accustomed to places and things. Within a few days I got used to dressing in skirts and scarves. And loving it actually. Used to seeing the cows on the street and interacting with them. Used to eating all the yummy vegetarian food. Used to seeing the wide smiles of the people who live there. Especially the ones whom Americans in particular; would consider poor.
We visited some areas in India like Wada, Mumbai, Rishikesh and Vrindavan. We saw amazing sites like the Taj Mahal and many sacred temples. I would have to say Rishikesh was the most memorable part for me. Hiking the foothills of the Himalayas, doing yoga with beautiful sun rises, and of course dipping in the Ganges.
The power of the Ganges is something I wasn’t expecting. I cried as I heard whispers of prayers besides me, songs being sung in the distance and the sound of the river flowing. Knowing so many people go there to be cleansed was so moving for me.
The sacred river is also known for its pollution but the area in Rishikesh we dipped in was very clean… and very cold! We gave an offering of flowers and petals to the river. We prayed and experienced one of the most spiritual events of our lives.
To be able to practice yoga in the place where yoga began was a dream come true. I was able to immerse myself in all the teachings, culture and traditions. I was reminded about all the beauty this world has to offer.
I must say it was truly one of the most important trips of my life thus far. I was able to focus on the impact I made. It made me remember just how small we are in the grand scheme of things but also just how big each person can make a difference. We can all learn so much from each other!
So if you get a chance to go to India remember to really look at your surroundings. The colors, animals and people will amaze you. And also remember to take a cheap pair of shades just incase a monkey steals it off your head.
From the flower festival in Mumbai.
If you would like to learn more about the details of my trip and the hosts, visit: http://bhakticenter.org/india-pilgrimage-jan-feb-2019/