Phir Milenge Ganga ji

On Monday, around a hundred of us gathered in the yoga hall to receive our certificates in Yoga teacher training. Some were in more extended courses, but all of us felt like the time of training had gone by in an instant.

How to record a months worth of memories? There were days that pushed this body (and mind) to the limit and beyond. But like metal in the forge, both became stronger in the fire of training. I’m now able to hold poses which I was unable to do at the beginning of the month.  And through reflection I’ve learned more about the nature of mind. I’m feeling a bit lighter these days as well, physically and also mentally from letting some things go.

Yet I did not do this alone. From the excellent staff who provided instruction, to those that prepared the food, kept everything clean, and handled a myriad of unseen administrative tasks, we’ve all been well supported this month. Further support has come from my new friends and fellow students. Through the last month we’ve commiserated, laughed, cried, screamed, moaned, sweated, sang, danced and smiled together, and pulled each other across the finish line.

 Now the time has come to say goodbye. Most of my classmates have already left, and I depart tomorrow for further travels. I find myself wishing I was back at day one, with all the experience still yet to unfold. But in Yoga as well as Buddhism, expecting the impermanent to be permanent is ignorance. Time moves on and all conditioned things change.

The last week was quite busy studying Sanskrit chants, asanas, breathing techniques, and yoga philosophy for the final exams. Add teaching practicums and doing 108 Sun Salutations, and there wasn’t much time to spare. So in my last days here, I’ve returned to the pastime in which I engaged when I first got here back in August: darshan with Mother Ganga-ji. 

She reminds me of the passage of time and the never ending flow of all things. 

My well-used yoga mat

Our class with our Hatha Yoga instructor, Ravi-ji

Traditional Indian Music

Graduation dancing

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Local color