The rainforest is a tremendous source of learning and healing. In fact, the heart chakra and Nature are attuned to the same vibration. This explains why it is so healing for the heart to be in the lap of Mother Earth and to be surrounded by the sounds and smells of Nature.
As I gaze into the horizon and my eyes drink in the blues of the ocean, sky, and mountains, I am reminded of the truths revealed in my heart while teaching a Retreat in the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica. Below are some of the insights I gained.
RHYTHMS.
Life dances and expresses itself in rhythms; the rhythm of tides, the rhythm of sunlight and darkness, and the rhythms of the animals; howling monkeys who travel and howl at sunrise and sunset; flocks of birds that fly in predictable patterns and nocturnal insects and frogs that wake up and sing their songs in the darkness of the night.
The modern, urban human has lost touch with natural rhythms- our circadian rhythms, our moon cycles, and the rhythms of work, rest, play, and sleep. With the increasing use of digital devices that accelerate the pace of time, we are out of sync with time; losing touch with our ability to drop into the present and BE. Fortunately, being in Nature without technology, brings us back into ourselves and helps us to re-establish real-time: the NOW; unfettered by the past and eternal and true.
WILD.
Nature is wild, fierce and powerful. She is a force far greater than humans and she demands respect and awe. Arrogance is easily humbled whether it is in the tumble of waves that have the power to break our bones or the monkeys who deficate on you if you stand underneath them. If you respect the power of Mother Nature and know your place within her order, an invitation beckons to enter her magical kingdom. Respect and reverence are rewarded in the animals who cross our paths as if to welcome us. In Uvita, every time I walked through the rainforest to the beach, an iridescent blue butterfly would appear as a reminder to tread lightly; be aware of my surroundings and remember the blessing of Mother Nature.
PRANA.
Prana is the life force contained in every living entity. The red fire ants who journeys dozens of meters up to the tops of trees for the freshest leaves understand prana. Prana is highest in the fresh shoots at the tops of trees. It is here where photosynthesis captures and harnesses the energy of the sun and converts it into food that prana is most concentrated. For humans, this lesson reveals itself in the wise choice to eat local and seasonal plant-based foods as these foods are highest in prana and contribute to the health, vitality, and longevity of our bodies.
As I return to life outside the rainforest, I am inspired to spend more time in Nature, to continue to support local farmers and eat seasonally, and to respect and revere the awesome power of Mother Nature.
Join Farah in La Fortuna, Costa Rica!
YOGA RETREAT IN COSTA RICA MANTRAS, MEDITATION, AND MOTHER EARTH
JUNE 13 – 19, 2021
This 7-day yoga Retreat is dedicated to mantras, meditation, and Mother Earth. Mantras are the Vedic gift to humanity. Chant, sing, and meditate using mantra and experience the bliss of this divine yogic practice.
Find out more here.
FARAH NAZARALI
Farah is an inspirational yoga teacher, podcast host, and advocate of yogic practices that support health, happiness, and harmony. She is the founder of Drishti Point Yoga Podcasts and is currently the podcast host of In Conversation: The Podcast of Banyen Books and Sound. She has interviewed hundreds of spiritual teachers, Masters, and renowned authors and seamlessly integrates this wisdom into her teaching.
Farah specializes in teaching Workshops, Retreats, and Training locally and worldwide. She has a deep love for all things yoga and is profoundly inspired by the sacred texts of yoga, the teachings of Buddhism, and wisdom traditions that lead us to love, truth, and being of service.
