Yoga on the Trail

Recently, I completed another segment of the Colorado Trail. And I got a lot of positive feedback from my prior post on “Lessons from the Trail.” So, I thought to share a few lessons from the long path.

Through-hiking offers a unique set of challenges, especially if you are opting to use minimal technology and take your cues directly from the land, it heightens the connection.

I find myself in a continual state of monitoring the outer land–trying to tune into the next water source. And remain mindful of the bodily-vessle; its pace, level of energy, japa, breath regulation, etc.

There is a heightened sense of immediacy. Going without water is of consequence. Missing a turn is a considerable setback. The mind also has moments of doubt and fear.  

Immediacy…..

In a sense, one is forced into the present. The mortgate and the unresolved relationships seem to loose their relavence. 

Getting over the pass is-the-only-thing.

Of course this same teaching is reflected in the classical teachings of yoga; to wake up to the present; and to soften our sense of separation with life and its primal origin. The trail is a mirror, reflecting without and within.