Posted on

Challenge Yourself: Himalayas Yoga Trek

Across religions, nationalities, ages and interests, the Himalayan Mountains are holy. To those who live amongst them, the mountains are sacred places to be treated with the utmost veneration. Certain mountains are even worshiped as no less than gods on earth. To outsiders, the mountains are a different sort of god, and climbers travel from all corners of the globe to try their skill at earth’s highest peaks. For all, these mountains connect with the core of our humanity to command a reverence. And when gazing up, we’re all stirred and challenged to reach higher, to be better.

DSC00665
DSC00938

In a place so drenched in spirituality, to trek without respecting that would be like walking the whole way with your eyes on your own feet. There must be a reason multiple religions find connection to their different gods through these peaks, while the secular stand in awe and the most cynical mind is silenced. If meditation had a Mecca, here it is. So when we found a trek that added yoga as well as meditation, it seemed perfect. If this meditation thing ended up being a sham, at least our bodies would get more flexible.

IMG_1131
IMG_5788

We signed up with the recommended Purna Yoga for an 11-day trek up to Annapurna Base Camp. Over the course of each day, our guide, Chandra, led us in a variety of meditations, breathing exercises, and yoga practices as we hiked higher towards ABC. While we made our way through the gorgeous terrain, the stretches were easier for both our bodies and our minds.

IMG_6050

There are countless resources on meditation and mindfulness, even for us western skeptics (we recommend 10% Happier by Dan Harris). Our experience and the evidence slowly worked on our doubt. What started as crunchy hippy talk began making more and more sense. The miracle can only be laid at the base of the great peaks. We can say, with the many who climbed before us, that these mountains changed us. Now, in addition to our feeling a reverence and awe towards the Himalayas, we’re grateful.

Posted on

Luxury Camp in India, Where it all Began

Lounging on the grounds of the Damodra Desert Camp is amazingly refreshing, considering its stark desert surroundings. The setting and local touches remind you of the rich heritage you’re surrounded by, and the simple luxuries keep you well within your relaxation zone. Here, you’ll find a peace rarely felt in civilization. As you stare across the refreshing white tents, the colorful decor, and a horizon full of Indian desert, you have to wonder: did the great Maharajahs ever feel this content?

2-IMG_4804
And that’s a fair question since, by camping in the Indian countryside, you’re partaking in a tradition held for thousands and thousands of years. A tradition experienced by everyone from silk merchants to sultans. And by honoring this great heritage, as well as their modern and equally fascinating culture, Damodra Desert Camp sets itself apart and above the normal luxury camping experience.

3-IMG_4891
Along with every ancient traveler who ever braved this terrain, you too can witness the impressive Rajasthan tribal dancing by firelight and have your mind transported by the gorgeous melody of local musicians. Stretch back on comfy cushions, and marvel at a sky full of stars. Enjoy all of this, of course, while sipping your favorite modern-day cocktail (and not worrying the constellation study with navigation issues!).

1-IMG_4981
You too can trek as the ancient travelers did, on the backs of desert defying camels while the sunset turns the world golden. Feel relief that you don’t have to travel the 4,000 miles of the Silk Route, or charge into battle facing fierce adversaries on elephants! Then relish that, after your ride, you can wash off the desert dust in a fabulously modern stone shower and relish traditional Indian food that delights both your tongue and your tummy.

1-IMG_4781
But Damodra doesn’t focus only on the ancient and overlook their present heritage. The camp holds wonderful relationships with the neighboring farmers and nearby village, where both the owner and the staff are from. The camp was named after this village, and you can take a visit to walk around, or simply talk to any of the staff to get a peek into their life and culture. The staff’s hospitality is warm and kind to their core, and their main mission is to create a home for you within their home. Their love and pride of this home will catch even the biggest skeptic’s heart. Fall into their culture with the freedom of knowing that you will be taken care of all the way down.

2-IMG_1953
With luxury and gracious hospitality as the foundation, Damodra builds an experience that links you to a history as fascinating as it is exotic. And by taking part in these traditions, within the fabulous comfort the camp provides, you bear witness to a culture that has enraptured many a voyager before you. To do it with this much comfort, makes you almost feel bad about how easy it is. Almost.

5-IMG_5062
Share in the legacy of the great explorers and connect with the maharajas of old. And know that, with modern AC, you’re more comfortable than most of them were.