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| The first sight of Golfo Dulce |
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| Where Eagles Dared! |
The bus finally stopped at a bar where our luggage was transferred in the back of trucks, with the group scattered in the designated carriers as that was the only they could have driven through the river followed by an uphill dirt road towards El Tumbo de las Olas which was the house we occupied for the rest of our retreat. At first, it was hard to believe we were sleeping on the first floor of an open house, set amidst nature at its wildest. 'Interesting'... I thought. On the ground floor, there was an open-air dining area with a large kitchen, which the local ladies making lunch occupied. This opened into a garden with a round pool surrounded by tropical trees, flowers, and hammocks hanging from posts. A wooden, open staircase to the first floor was covered by a high ceiling, partially see-through glass. No doors, no windows in sight.
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| The view from my bed |
Walking upstairs to find the white-sheeted beds, only separated by heavy white curtains, reminded me of boarding school days, sharing rooms with inmates! Haha. It was as though time had stopped long ago, and I felt young, very young, a teenager lost in time. We each chose a bed, and Tracey happened to be my roommate, who was joined later by Charel. Next came lunch and a stroll down a pathway of trees and flowers which led to the beach and the blue Gulf, a bay of mainly sand with some stones scattered here and there, the varied green of the palm trees mixed with other lush shrubs unknown in the name (to me anyway) was breathtaking. While watching some of the girls go for a swim, I took a walk around the protected area, ending with large stones set at sea. A scene from a postcard.
We began days with yoga at 7:00am where our bubbly instructor Kenny G talked of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, their influence and learning while floods of tears flowed through most our eyes. It is incredible how connected we all really are. Beauty is found in nature as in people all around us; seek it, and you will find it. I would smile. Every time hummingbirds flapped, their wings hovered above the red and yellow heliconias during the lesson. Other times there were the naughty monkeys swiftly moving from one tree to another, there was the tucan bird with a giant yellow beak which diverted our attention and generally, the wild life in Costa Rica was next to none. It made me wonder whether birds could hear us or, like plants, they simply go by feeling alone. When words come out of our mouths, they generate a certain kind of heat, depending on the sentiments put into them.
We had surfing instructions from Tania on the first day, and people disappeared into the sea while all I wanted to do was lie on the surfboard and paddle away across the mellow waves. With all the Hawaiian Tropical oil on my skin, even holding onto the panel was hard work before sliding away like a slippery fish, but I loved it. Forget gripping on it to stand up! The dream of becoming a surf babe would have to wait for another lifetime... Or who knows?!
During our stay, the food prepared by Angus was more like being on a gourmet holiday, which was different from what I had expected. Especially the very yummy chocolate cake he baked for Molly's birthday was truly more gastronomic than most I had tasted before; I believe I have tried many. Tangus, as Tania and Angus' duo team were called, had gone to all lengths to make our stay fun-filled and fully scheduled. In the mountains, the massage by a local lady was exciting; in a netted room, before darkness dissolved anything in sight but the sound of the crickets and other animals and candles around, she began by expressing gratitude to all that surrounded us and asked permission from my body to work on. Also, she followed a similar ritual at the end, which I felt very much touched by. Then, in Osa, I booked an acupuncture session with the Chinese doctor, which was a healing experience; in the dark again, with the help of a torch on his forehead, he masterly conducted the use of his needles, which generally would freak me out.
One afternoon, we got dressed in our yoga outfits and hiking shoes to walk in the nearby river. I slid on a stone and fell into the water with both my cameras hanging in their cases from my shoulder to waste. Oh well, a farewell to my Canon G12, it did me well but the chip was saved. Nothing lasts forever, after all, but after getting to a waterfall and climbing the rocks to jump into the pond below in full gear, losing my camera became a thought of the past. Material goods are there to give us pleasure, and they are in our control. The minute we pay importance to them, it is them controlling us.
The last day was left for the 'crème de la crème' of all experiences, boating all morning to spot the dolphins. Swimming with dolphins at sea has been one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. 'They are the only animals which can scan the human body', was what their coach had told us at a resort in Cancun, 'they sense you'. There are centres, especially in Florida, where swimming with these Godly creatures could help cure various illnesses or handicaps. As soon as the two boats our superb duo team hired were set at sea, three dolphins were spotted, and we got close to them before they made their way into the Pacific Ocean. After a ride through the backwaters and, thank goodness, not a sighting of crocodiles or snakes, we anchored at a beautiful spot for scuba diving, followed by a picnic brunch on board the boats. When we finally left to head back to the port, a dolphin appeared not far off, and when we approached the giant mammal, he decided to swim ahead of our boat, literally underneath. Kenny G brought out his flute and began playing a gentle tune, which would have probably even brought a cobra out of his nest. My heart went to Molly, whose mother had recently passed away, whose spirit followed her daughter wherever she went, sending her loving messages through the sound of the birds, the playful monkeys and now, the dolphin swimming with us. I had told her from my experience that when people die, they never leave you, all you have to do is think of them and they will be there to help, protect and guide you in simply a different way. You can feel certain physical embraces.
We began days with yoga at 7:00am where our bubbly instructor Kenny G talked of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, their influence and learning while floods of tears flowed through most our eyes. It is incredible how connected we all really are. Beauty is found in nature as in people all around us; seek it, and you will find it. I would smile. Every time hummingbirds flapped, their wings hovered above the red and yellow heliconias during the lesson. Other times there were the naughty monkeys swiftly moving from one tree to another, there was the tucan bird with a giant yellow beak which diverted our attention and generally, the wild life in Costa Rica was next to none. It made me wonder whether birds could hear us or, like plants, they simply go by feeling alone. When words come out of our mouths, they generate a certain kind of heat, depending on the sentiments put into them.
We had surfing instructions from Tania on the first day, and people disappeared into the sea while all I wanted to do was lie on the surfboard and paddle away across the mellow waves. With all the Hawaiian Tropical oil on my skin, even holding onto the panel was hard work before sliding away like a slippery fish, but I loved it. Forget gripping on it to stand up! The dream of becoming a surf babe would have to wait for another lifetime... Or who knows?!
During our stay, the food prepared by Angus was more like being on a gourmet holiday, which was different from what I had expected. Especially the very yummy chocolate cake he baked for Molly's birthday was truly more gastronomic than most I had tasted before; I believe I have tried many. Tangus, as Tania and Angus' duo team were called, had gone to all lengths to make our stay fun-filled and fully scheduled. In the mountains, the massage by a local lady was exciting; in a netted room, before darkness dissolved anything in sight but the sound of the crickets and other animals and candles around, she began by expressing gratitude to all that surrounded us and asked permission from my body to work on. Also, she followed a similar ritual at the end, which I felt very much touched by. Then, in Osa, I booked an acupuncture session with the Chinese doctor, which was a healing experience; in the dark again, with the help of a torch on his forehead, he masterly conducted the use of his needles, which generally would freak me out.
One afternoon, we got dressed in our yoga outfits and hiking shoes to walk in the nearby river. I slid on a stone and fell into the water with both my cameras hanging in their cases from my shoulder to waste. Oh well, a farewell to my Canon G12, it did me well but the chip was saved. Nothing lasts forever, after all, but after getting to a waterfall and climbing the rocks to jump into the pond below in full gear, losing my camera became a thought of the past. Material goods are there to give us pleasure, and they are in our control. The minute we pay importance to them, it is them controlling us.
The last day was left for the 'crème de la crème' of all experiences, boating all morning to spot the dolphins. Swimming with dolphins at sea has been one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. 'They are the only animals which can scan the human body', was what their coach had told us at a resort in Cancun, 'they sense you'. There are centres, especially in Florida, where swimming with these Godly creatures could help cure various illnesses or handicaps. As soon as the two boats our superb duo team hired were set at sea, three dolphins were spotted, and we got close to them before they made their way into the Pacific Ocean. After a ride through the backwaters and, thank goodness, not a sighting of crocodiles or snakes, we anchored at a beautiful spot for scuba diving, followed by a picnic brunch on board the boats. When we finally left to head back to the port, a dolphin appeared not far off, and when we approached the giant mammal, he decided to swim ahead of our boat, literally underneath. Kenny G brought out his flute and began playing a gentle tune, which would have probably even brought a cobra out of his nest. My heart went to Molly, whose mother had recently passed away, whose spirit followed her daughter wherever she went, sending her loving messages through the sound of the birds, the playful monkeys and now, the dolphin swimming with us. I had told her from my experience that when people die, they never leave you, all you have to do is think of them and they will be there to help, protect and guide you in simply a different way. You can feel certain physical embraces.
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| Picnic Brunch |
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| The affectionate dolphin |
Once we returned to land, Angus was waiting for us with another car to transport us to the last yoga session at the Iguana Lodge, followed by lunch. I chose to skip the class and leave my camera alone on the beach, where I ended up chasing butterflies for ages. Phebe had told me a beautiful story she had once read about a woman chasing a butterfly for so long while where she needed to look was simply within.
At last night's gathering, Kenny G asked everyone to express their most memorable moment on the retreat. The memory of the dolphin swimming along with us in harmony was the first thought that came to my mind. Charel shared her sentiments on how the beds were set out and how comfortable we felt in each other's company, the comfort one would think of with loved ones. When it came to Mandala's turn, whose striking beauty had caught my attention from the moment she walked into the dining area on our first night and talked candidly about her battle with cancer. At that moment, I could not help my outburst when I told her:
"You're so brave!"
Indeed, her courage to go through chemotherapy and then to come on such an adventurous journey on her own was truly remarkable to watch. Not only once did she show any sign of pain, if not the one she felt now, indeed the one she had endured. Amazing woman. I also told Kenny how wonderful it was to hear him speak so fondly of his bride-to-be and his love for her. It is quite a rare thing in this day and age.
My time in Costa Rica was precious in many ways, realising that comfort zones are basically lazy chairs that we settle into and not a way to conduct a life full of adventures to be experienced and taken advantage of. Stepping out of the blanket of my comfort zone, from handstands at yoga to walks up the mountains in jungles, personally, what gave me more courage to try out new ventures was the caring support all around, which we do not always get in life, from our genuinely superb organisers, Tania and Angus, the yoga master Kenny G and every single person there. The incredible energy attracted people with varied lifestyles and ages from different parts of the world to gather here in Costa Rica to reconnect with our spirits and move on to a hopefully more meaningful life. Angus' warm hugs every morning meant a lot to me, and the treasured chats with Tania were sublime.
At one stage, towards the end of the trip, two days of rain and I was almost ready to go home!
What?!? It was only due to too much thinking. Despite carrying my laptop and having internet access, I could not write, put pen to paper, or read! Too much time to think is not necessarily a good thing, it would seem. God knows I was not complaining for one second, as counting my blessings constantly is all I do, even in the worst of situations, and this is by far one of the most magical destinations my travels have taken me to.
Being back in London and spending time with family has given me a broader understanding of the importance of their love. I have not always been at my best behaviour regarding the awakening of the rebellion in me when asked to behave as requested. When told: "Haldita, you're a handful." I know exactly what that means. How can one take criticism when you know you are not pleasing someone and do not wish to change for their sake? Communication is only sometimes the key, as both parties have to agree first!
Watching the care my Uncle Ken puts into his excellent relationship with his loving wife, Aunt Laura, brought further hope in understanding how relationships can work. Also, having my mum A gel and sis Hala here has been another blessing I thank God for. Accompanied by my kids, life has been bliss.
Toxifying the detox of the yoga retreat with two visits to my favourite club, Fabric, with Sis on the last two Saturdays since the back was a pure pleasure. Getting home one morning at 7:00am to face my cool uncle reading in the living room made me further understand how important it is when one's family have an understanding far beyond their choice of conduct of how you choose to live your life. No criticism but tolerance. If you get along well with your daily routine, no one else will make your choices.
Life is to be lived... God Bless.
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| Chasing the Butterfly |
"You're so brave!"
Indeed, her courage to go through chemotherapy and then to come on such an adventurous journey on her own was truly remarkable to watch. Not only once did she show any sign of pain, if not the one she felt now, indeed the one she had endured. Amazing woman. I also told Kenny how wonderful it was to hear him speak so fondly of his bride-to-be and his love for her. It is quite a rare thing in this day and age.
My time in Costa Rica was precious in many ways, realising that comfort zones are basically lazy chairs that we settle into and not a way to conduct a life full of adventures to be experienced and taken advantage of. Stepping out of the blanket of my comfort zone, from handstands at yoga to walks up the mountains in jungles, personally, what gave me more courage to try out new ventures was the caring support all around, which we do not always get in life, from our genuinely superb organisers, Tania and Angus, the yoga master Kenny G and every single person there. The incredible energy attracted people with varied lifestyles and ages from different parts of the world to gather here in Costa Rica to reconnect with our spirits and move on to a hopefully more meaningful life. Angus' warm hugs every morning meant a lot to me, and the treasured chats with Tania were sublime.
At one stage, towards the end of the trip, two days of rain and I was almost ready to go home!
What?!? It was only due to too much thinking. Despite carrying my laptop and having internet access, I could not write, put pen to paper, or read! Too much time to think is not necessarily a good thing, it would seem. God knows I was not complaining for one second, as counting my blessings constantly is all I do, even in the worst of situations, and this is by far one of the most magical destinations my travels have taken me to.
Being back in London and spending time with family has given me a broader understanding of the importance of their love. I have not always been at my best behaviour regarding the awakening of the rebellion in me when asked to behave as requested. When told: "Haldita, you're a handful." I know exactly what that means. How can one take criticism when you know you are not pleasing someone and do not wish to change for their sake? Communication is only sometimes the key, as both parties have to agree first!
Watching the care my Uncle Ken puts into his excellent relationship with his loving wife, Aunt Laura, brought further hope in understanding how relationships can work. Also, having my mum A gel and sis Hala here has been another blessing I thank God for. Accompanied by my kids, life has been bliss.
Toxifying the detox of the yoga retreat with two visits to my favourite club, Fabric, with Sis on the last two Saturdays since the back was a pure pleasure. Getting home one morning at 7:00am to face my cool uncle reading in the living room made me further understand how important it is when one's family have an understanding far beyond their choice of conduct of how you choose to live your life. No criticism but tolerance. If you get along well with your daily routine, no one else will make your choices.
Life is to be lived... God Bless.
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