Lately, I’ve been searching for more ways to keep busy, keep sane and immerse myself in the Present while I have this time in Phoenix. A huge part of that has become the kundalini yoga classes we’ve been taking at an ashram just down the street from our apartment. In the course of about a week and a half, I have noticed an almost effortless ability to look my sources of frustration, anxiety and depression in the face and sort of shrug, smile and carry on with my day. I’m not even that great at the yoga yet, and when we get to the meditation parts during class, my mind is like a crazed dog off his leash, running about and refusing to sit quietly. But outside of class, in my everyday life, something has started creeping into my metaphysical self; as my muscles and joints and spinal column are slowly being coaxed and steered back into alignment and strength, so too are my currents of energy, mindfulness, faith, compassion, awareness and centeredness.
I really always thought yoga would be nice, but ‘not enough of a workout,’ especially not enough to warrant the cost of the classes. But beyond the ab workout I got from last night’s kriyas, it is really my mind muscle that is getting its arse kicked back into a rightful path. I am so grateful for this experience to have presented itself to us, at a time when we both are really in need.
The other mental and physical shake-up that I was overjoyed to have recently was a rock climbing trip with my old highschool buddy Sean. He took me, another friend and his trusty pooch up to Prescott’s beautiful climbing secret, the Promised Land, which lies nestled inside a quiet canyon on some otherwise ignored rangeland in the Chino Valley. Aside from having a great time getting to reconnect with my old friend and get to know a new, sweet and inspiring one, the chance to finally climb outdoors again, and for real this time – with patient instruction and the chance to safely learn some new skills – was so so good for my soul. I felt strong and confident and so at peace with the surrounding terrain, the sunshine, the people.. only big thing missing was Ry, but inshallah, he’ll be coming next time.
I can’t wait to go again, it’s all I’ve been thinking about. Below is a visual recap…
