Day Seven & We're in Heaven

A Garbage Picking Monkey At The Ashram


This morning I woke up really early and felt wide awake. I went back to sleep and woke up again, still dark out. Natalie came in, she's our alarm clock too, and said it was 6. The others decided to sleep in but I knew if I missed this last day of Kriya Yoga I would be disappointed, so I got up. I have really enjoyed rising early, before the sun, since we've been here. The air is warm this morning so my walk is slow and easy. When I arrive I'm actually early and only a few people are arranging their spots. I get as close to Mataji as possible and et a nice thick bolster to sit on. This class begins with three Om's and then pranayama, like the other day. We chant the Sun Salutation chant which I have never heard before. It is beautiful. She says it is in honor of the light within, the sun, within. Ahhhh. We also chant the Gayatri Mantra 24 times. Wow! Really liking this version. I am so used to the one that Kate sings in our Kirtan concerts.

Our Breakfast Buffet

When I come out of the class the place is waking up and people are scampering about with yoga mats in tow. In the room the girls are getting ready and we all head to the breakfast buffet to eat quickly before Iyengar. He has told us over and over about not eating before class so we try to eat an hour before so we don't disturb our practice. Today is extra special since it is our last day with him. We practice the same as yesterday but today it feels stronger. Our bodies are so aligned from sven days with Raya. A woman in the room today whispers to her friend that Raya is gorgeuos. He asks what she says and she repeats it to him. He blushes. At the end of the class he says, That's That, again and we all clap. He is so humble. He says a few words and we clap again. He takes the microphone and tells us that everything he has taught us comes straight from Guriji, B.K.S. Iyengar, and Gita and his son. He makes sure this is clear. Him humility evokes a third round of applause. What an amazing and beautful teacher. Everyone obviously has been touched by this man.


One of Natalie's Beneficiaries


Grocer weighing Natalie's contribution.

Priscilla at the Internet Cafe in the Market

We have lunch at the ashram. Seems they are serving leftovers since it is the last day of the festival. We walk through the marketplace afterwards so Natalie can begin her shopping. She is leaving tomorrow and we are sad to see her go. She has really made this trip an adventure. She has touched so many beings here, human and non-human, small and large. I'm sure the cows will miss her too. And the man she bought 20 rupees worth of carrots every day from to feed the cows. And the grocery where she bought dog biscuits for the dogs. And the sick and old who she gave the bags full of money and clothing to on the streets here in Rishikesh. Thanks Natalie for joining us for the first week of our journey. We miss you already!

A Monkey Hangs Out On The Edge Of The Ganga Bridge




A Man and His Cow

We'll Miss You Natalie

Namaste~ Lynne