Resting in Nature’s Healing Arms

This is my second morning waking up in the beauty, harmony, and magic of Feathered Pipe Ranch, a yoga retreat center in northern Montana. I am so content and so grateful.

This place was created through improbable serendipities, countless acts of generosity, and a deep and abiding vision and belief that the world could be healed through love and service.

I feel privileged  that somehow my path led me here to study for a decade with my beloved teachers, Mary Dunn, and Dean and Rebecca Lerner. I also had the opportunity to meet and connect with the founder of the ranch, India Supera. She was an extraordinary individual who never wavered from her commitment to bring peace, love, and harmony into the world through selfless action.The result of her life of service is this incredible retreat center that supports individuals on their spiritual journeys.

I am reminded of a conversation I had once with India. She told me that this place was not intended only to provide people with yoga training, or rest and recuperation. She said “Karen, we are here to train leaders.” Little did I know that this principle was not just a conversation she was having with me, but was the very essence of the mission of Feathered Pipe Ranch.

While hiking yesterday, I was struck again and again by the beauty of the land. Normally, at this time of year, it would be much dryer and much colder. But this year  the land is lush and green, and the weather is warm enough for me to swim in the lake every day.

The rhythm of the day includes my morning practice, two yoga classes, social time at meals, swimming in the lake, solitary hikes, time to read and reflect, and space to absorb the healing vibration of this magical place. I feel I’m being changed on a cellular level.

My message to you today is that wherever you are, take time to connect with nature. The earth is our mother. Every day we can take time to nurture  her and be nurtured by her.

Namaste,
Karen