Coming Back to Life

The past week sleeping, eating, literally living outside surrounded and immersed in the natural world has deepen my relationship with the Earth and all the Elements and taught me again about what it means to be alive.

Every morning, wake up to the sound of a traditional Bhutanese horn, a call to gather.

In the darkness, feeling the cold desert floor beneath my feet and the wind caressing my cheeks as I emerge from my tent.

Join the practice circle surrounded by Juniper trees where dew still pearls on certain branches.

Ears filled with the chorus of dawn whose concert is a promise, witnessing the sun climb the rocky scree and finally appear in all its splendor.

All day long, feeling its warmth on my dry skin.

Walk barefoot from my tent, to the practice circle, to the outdoor dining room, back to my tent, adapting each step to the terrain: sand, forest debris, gravel, stones.

Nowhere to go, nothing to do. Nobody to be.

Just show up and get out of the way.

Observed by the fluffy clouds scattered here and there, practice Qigong slowly and contemplatively.

At Yang time in the afternoon, meditate under its Majesty the Alligator Juniper, benefiting from its protection, lie down nonchalantly by the stream to observe the continuous flow of life, or escape into the shade of the forest.

Three times a day, nourish my body with just the right amount of earthly products, prepared with love and care. Facing west, conversing silently with the wise woman carved into the tallest rocks while celebrating the explosion of flavors and textures in my mouth. After dinner, dance to carry out my work as a yogi with dedication and attention.

At the Yin hour, just as the sun disappears behind the mountain, open my heart and mind and listen to the Dharma talk, distilling insights and wisdom as much as possible.

At nightfall, in perfect synchronization, gather again under the stars to share one last time this day, the joy of being alive.

Taking the silence with me like a precious treasure, returning to my tent guided only by the diffuse shine of the moonlight.

What makes you feel alive?