Peace Profound

Another eventful week at the Yoga Retreat began on Sunday with the first ever International Day of Yoga. In the morning our priest, Krishnan Namboodri, led 200 rounds of Surya Namaskar on the Bay Platform with many of the swamis, staff, karma yogis and guests joining in. After 2 hours of unceasing sun salutations while chanting, the priest didn't even break a sweat - what an example of tapping in to an energy source higher than the physical strength mind or body! We also hosted many locals from the Indian community for a lecture on the benefits of the yogic lifestyle and an asana class followed by a beautiful feast. Families and friends celebrated the ancient traditions that have changed the lives of so many individuals around the world. 

Wednesday I had my first opportunity to experience Ocean Club, the most exclusive section of our neighboring resort at Atlantis. Accommodations range from $1,000 to $5,000 per night and the world class grounds were nothing short of amazing. Beautiful grassy knolls, hammocks, palm trees, sculptures, and even a 12th century French monastery that was transported stone by stone in the 1960s. 

In this beautiful setting guests are invited to join a daily yoga practice led by our Sivanada teachers. The format is quite different from the 2-hour class we practice in the ashram, here we teach a basic 1-hour sequence including sun salutations, asanas and a final relaxation. I am looking forward to return to teach and explore the peaceful gardens!

Yesterday morning our priest held an ocean puja on the beach where Krishna - "the all attractive one" - the embodiment of love & joy who destroys all pain, was invoked through the fire ritual. Encircling the adorned deity while carrying offerings of spices, milk, and ocean water, the swamis chanted until the priest hoisted up the large sculpture and we all followed him into the sea! It was a beautiful puja that felt both uplifting and purifying.

"The Lord dwells in the hearts of all creatures and whirls them round upon the wheel of maya. Run to him for refuge with all your strength, and peace profound will be yours through his grace" 

                  - Krishna, from The Bhagavad Gita