Reflections on India

In February 2020 I had the pleasure and honor of attending a Bhakti Training through Laughing Lotus (studios in NYC, NoLa and San Fran) in Rishikesh, India. Here are my reflections, and memories based on the 5 senses:

Sight

1. The green color of the Ganga river

2. The fire at Aarti

3. Cows in the middle of the street blocking traffic

4. The Beatles ashram, a place of beauty and deep inspiration

5. Sadus walking the street

Smell

1. Cow poop

2. My total and complete lack of deodorant for 10 days

3. Flowers at the Pujas

4. Trash

5. Incense everywhere

Touch

1. The fur of stray dogs

2. Hugs from strangers turned friends

3. The feeling of my yoga mat under the feet and hands

4. The hoodie over my head during morning meditation

5. The scratchy airplane and van seats

Sound

1. Laughter, deep and full 

2. Sadvhi's voice 

3. Felipe playing the harmonium with all of us chanting

4. The bells on women's anklets

5. Monkeys jumping from the trees

Taste

1. Naan

2. Curry

3. Chai, the best chai

4. A sip of water after chanting mantra 108 times (over an hour!)

5. My tears