Follow the Journey

Greetings from Rishikesh, the world’s “capital for yoga,” not to mention some incredible white water rafting, mini cows and an array of other great wildlife. Rishikesh sits on the beautiful ganga, sparkling brilliantly and clean (as clean as it gets here in India) as it makes its way through this beautiful canyon. Yesterday the crew took a day trip down the river, rafting with a company called “Red Chilli.” Our guides were awesome, the scenery was breathtaking, and the water was perfect. Monkeys of different size and color dotted the landscape. We even had the honor of viewing two massive vultures with a wingspan that would put Michael Jordan to shame (it might be a close call as to whose is bigger).

The rapids, mostly mid threes, gave us a great ride and left us plenty satisfied. We even had the opportunity to jump in and swim the rapids, a refreshing soak as we floated the surface of the river. Rishikesh has definitely made it to the top of the list within my favorite destintions in India (and perhaps the world?). With its layed back atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, fabulous shopping and, not to mention a destination that could be described as ‘rafting meets spirituality’ at first glace, I could call this place home. There’s even a pretty good mexican food selection at many of the restaurants. Yes, Mexican food, here in India! Alright, it’s not quite like home when you bite into a quesadilla that is made up primarily of cucumbers, but it’s a start.

Tomorrow we head out for Pool Chatti ashram, located about 5 kilometers from where we are currently staying. The week will consist of quiet reflection on the banks of the ganga in between mediation, yoga and a variety of programs aimed at improved self-awareness.

(Btw, this is just an exerpt from my blog, so you can read the full version at http://thirdeyeactivist.blogspot.com/2010/11/ganga-cleansings-and-monkey-business.html)

Hope everything is going well back in the states! We miss you and love you very much!

Much love,
Amanda