The last week has been full on. I feel that so much has happened in such a short time, but it also feels like I have been away for so long. This place is special. Different, but special. There is such a great vibe here that needs to be experienced rather than described. Everything here happens on India time - which varies depending on what you’re doing. If you are in a queue, you need to push and shove or you will be left behind. If you order a chai tea, be prepared to wait more than 10 minutes even if no one else is waiting. And crossing the road, well - that can go wither way.
But the heart of this place is the Ganga. This beautiful sacred green river meanders its way through Rishikesh. The icy cold water has travelled from many places to get here, and when the water has completed flowing through and leaves this place, it continues its journey visiting many other places. Very much in the same way as the many people who visit this place.
This morning we did yoga on the sandy bank of the Ganga at a location 30 minutes drive away. To say it was cold is an understatement. The cold came up through the sand chilling the yoga mat, numbing my hands and feet. Practising yoga in such a magical place as the sun rises over the mountains, is enough of a distraction to keep going. A memory that will not be forgotten.
After returning to town, a few of us went over to the other side of the river by boat. We looked at the temples, and many little shops along the way. We sat for some time at the bottom of the steps on the river edge, dipping our feet (until numb from cold) discussing some of the amazing things we have learnt so far. We spent many hours wandering, talking, and seeing, (and avoiding creepy monkeys) and as the sun set we crossed one of bridges back to “our” side of the river. Another busy week awaits. So now I will say goodnight and rest my head on my rock pillow. Much love and laughter, Amanda 💛
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