Returning to the Flow

Kim, Scott and I headed up to Catoctin Mountain Park yesterday to enjoy the area's waterfalls and the gorgeous weather. Ten minutes north of Frederick, the park hosts one of the state's highest waterfalls, which cascades over 78 feet of sloping rocks that are easily scaled. We climbed up to various spots and reconnected with the physical flow while the waters poured around us - so amazing.

When practicing near or in water, I'm really able to hook into the sahaja (spontaneous, natural) aspect of the yogic arts - no special sequence, no orthodoxy, just the inspiration of the pranic river as my only guide. There's so much value to the traditions of yoga as they've been handed down to us - special ways of inhabiting this ancient practice - yet I often feel that there's an even older knowledge base for the practice: the primal wisdom of our bones and blood.

When the rocks pulse beneath my feet and the sound of water fills my senses, a different kind of flow emerges, one where alignment is not determined by the engagement of the quadriceps, but by the sun's warm rays and the caress of a summer breeze. It's here where I truly connect to yoga - union - there is no self, only the water, only rocks, only the flow.

Attachment: CIMG4284.JPG

Posted on Mon, August 24, 2009 by Greg Marzullo

2 comments (Add your own)

1. Kim wrote:: The next time you're looking for a great hike, check out the Catoctin Mountains.

The hike we took was an amazing yoga practice: As we walked, we shared stories and laughter but also savored the silent moments that seemed so natural and effortless while in the presence of Nature's Bounty and good friends. I observed within the first 5 minutes on the rock studded trail how the humidity of the day gave way to the coolness of the forest floor and tree canopy. I paused every now and then to hug a tree or examine the intricate spiderwebs that suspended like a tapestry of light and silk. I heard my breath deepen as the trail steepened and the sounds of birds every now and then, breaking my own song. Grounding my feet with each step, I felt gratitude-thankful for my feet, my legs that allow me to traverse beuatiful land and rugged terrain. I stop to marvel at a freakishly red wild mushrooms growing out of the side of a tree. When we finally arrived at the waterfall, we scaled the rocks, using limbs and bandhas to hold on and keep from falling down the cliff! It was thrilling and reminded me of our human need for adventure that stretches our edges and cultivates keen focus. I discovered a part of the falls that poured into a swimming hole-it was a natural living room, with soft mossy rocks serving as wonderful sofas. I sat on the rock and leaned back, surrendered to the first shock of cold water on warm skin, knowing that it was impermanent-eventually, the shock gave way and my body settled into bliss as the water continued to flow over my skin. I leaned back into it's powerful surge and the water embraced me- soothing away any heat of concern, any hot worry- I was a child again- delighted by the very simple joy of being.
Tue, August 25, 2009 @ 12:09 AM
2. Scott wrote:: One of the beautiful things about yoga is that it can be practiced anywhere... on your mat, in your home or out in nature. While a yoga class offers an opportunity to challenge your mind and body through asana, being outside in nature creates the very same opportunity as you experience the ultimate example of flow.
After spending time in the open spaces of Hawaii, I returned to Maryland with an intention of finding new ways of connecting with nature right here at home. I've always found it challenging to discover natures beauty while living in the metro DC area, but there are examples all around us.
This hike with Kim and Greg to Catoctin Falls was a beautiful example of the power of friendship and how yoga can be practiced anywhere. Simply walking amongst the trees and rocks, breathing the fresh air, and reconnecting to the awesome power of natures flow, I was reminded that asana is but one way to practice yoga. The next time life gets in the way and you can't make it in to class, simply go outside and take in natures beauty. Be present and see what happens.
Tue, August 25, 2009 @ 4:07 PM

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