Leaving South India and landing in the north is like being in a different country. While Southern India is much like a touristy-vacation spot, North India is what I have always imagined India to be and more, and why, as long as I can remember, I have been drawn to travel here.
The first stop was Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. There is a yoga studio almost every block offering different styles of practice. Although many offer teacher training courses and retreats most welcome drop in classes.
Rishikesh is along the Holy Ganges River at the bottom of the Great Himalayas mountain chain.
The water in the Ganges here is sparkling clear. Certainly not at all like what I had heard and read about the Ganges.
It was here in Rishikesh that I had the fortunate experience of staying at the Yoga Nikitan Ashram (a stark room with only a cold shower, no heat – in February the temperature was still cold- a bed without sheets and a blanket under which I slept with my jacket on). The ashtanga yoga classes (based on Patanjali yoga philosophy), given by swamis or gurus (I’m not sure), were some of the toughest I’ve had, but also some of the most satisfying and spiritually nourishing.
While I was here Jivasu, the founder of the Naturality Movement was giving a workshop on A Natural Path of Awakening.
If you follow others, you will miss yourself.
Although I was not registered for the Naturality workshop and was leaving Rishikesh the day after Dr. Jivasu had arrived I was privileged to be able to attend his opening session and only wished that I could have stayed for the entire workshop.
Naturality is a process of accepting life in its totality, which encompasses fear and stillness, sorrow and joy, turmoil and peace. It is an effort to know one’s own nature and the nature of the external world, two sides of the same reality, rather than following a system or a teacher.
“The most beautiful book to read is the book of our life”
– Jivasu
You were really fortunate, Carol! It sounds as though this was a wonderful and nourishing part of your trip. And the photographs are gorgeous. I can see how this is the India you’ve thought of when you’ve thought of ‘India.’
Thanks for your response, Margot. It was a very special trip and I was fortunate to be able to do it before the lockdown. I hope that you are safe and well. ❤
Good to see that not all of the Ganges is brown! Beautiful scenery!
Thank you, Anneli. I was surprised to see the Ganges so clear which wasn’t the case further down. Hope you are well and enjoying your lockdown time. ❤
Thanks, Carol. Making the best of a bad situation, as we all are. Just hope to be lucky and not get sick. Best to you.
Sounds like a wonderful experience. The country is stunning!
Thanks for being here, Jacquie <3. The country is large and so diverse in nature. A feast for the eyes and soul.
“If you follow others, you will miss yourself.” Love this, Carol! Thank you for continuing to share your incredible trip with us. Your photos are stunning.
Jill, meeting Dr. Jivasu was an unexpected pleasure. I wasn’t on a tour and so I was open to whatever the day presented. Thanks for commenting and good luck with your new book coming. The cover is very appealing. ❤
I’m glad you had a wonderful time. Thank you, Carol. ❤
Thank you
Sent from my iPad Deborah Humphrey
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Wow, thanks for sharing some of this amazing journey, Carol. ❤
I’m glad you appreciate it, Debby. It was amazing (sometimes difficult with all the poverty and noise – made me appreciate the small things in my life, such as a warm shower and space). ❤
Truly an experience in life to remind of gratitude. ❤
Thanks, Debby. I ‘m glad that you appreciate my photos. Sharing them on WordPress allows me to relive and integrate my trip. ❤
Absolutely! ❤
Such an interesting post
Thank you. Your comment makes me happy. ❤
Carol, I am just thrilled to look at your pictures and read your text, I’ve read so much about Indian philosophies and there is of course the great Vivekenanda. Most appealing to me is Karma Yoga because I am a man of action, and you a woman of action.
Thank you, David for your special comment. Karma plays such an important role in Indian philosophy which might explain the caste system as well as the slums next to rich commercial buildings.
You truly are living the “Eat, Pray, Love” book aren’t you? What a fabulous adventure! ❤
You know, Ellie, it really was an adventure for me. I’ve travelled quite a bit both in Asia and Europe, a bit in South America but nothing compares to India (reminds me of a song by Sinead O”cConnor :)) Hope you are well. ❤
Rishikesh is a nice place to visit. There is a lot of offerings available to the tourists.
Naturopathy, Meditation and Yoga camps are good. One can also try trekking or visiting the upper reaches of the mighty Himalayas for adventure. The Nature isn’t polluted and the waters are clear as you saw over there. The local delicacies and sweets of Rishikesh are also a must have, and I hope you didn’t miss them.
Great post Madam.. 😊😊 Thank you for sharing.. 😊😊
Ah, I did miss the sweets in Rishikesh! I must return. Thank you for this information on Rishikesh. It’s much appreciated. ❤
I went to India a few months ago and I’m now looking forward to seeing northern India too! Thank you for sharing. I also wrote about my experience as a tourist and black woman in India. Would love that you check it out 🙂
https://callmejanebond.com/travel/mumbai-unforgettable-french-indian-wedding/