When we planned the Summer Nights event, without attachment, aparigraha, we knew it may be hot. One by one, confirmations were noted, the last ticket reserved - and then the menu refined with awareness of the season and our bodies.
Mother Nature humbled us, and heat was a symbol and reminder of the present. With breath, with compassion, with awareness of edges. With sweat. With distractions. We remained centered.
Salutations to Patanjali.
An alignment based practice.
Surya-Namaskar Rotations.
Twists and chakras openers.
And a few restorative asanas.
All limbs were practiced - and pratayahara balanced the inward and outward reflections.
Savasana allowed enough time for the gifts of the practice to be absorbed - along with icy lavender towels. The vibration from heart chakra and sacral crystal bowls carried the melody of breath into deeper layers. And we rested completely.
When movement was welcomed back into the mind-body, the practice moved us with deeper consciousness, and the sangha flowed From Mat to Table.
The hum lifted, and the yoginis made their way to the Berry-Lemon Vibe Rose Ice dropping thoughts,and mantras, and high-vibe cubes into our glasses.
West Coast Heart Chakra Greens with solar plexus tomatoes, carrots, avocados & toasted walnuts were served alongside shallot + herb vinaigrette with panko crusted goat cheese.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Mediterranean Tabbouleh (hold all the raw veggies) and give me sun-dried tomatoes and a grilled artisan baguette.
Handmade Sunshine Carrot Gnocchi (who sings for the sun?) with roasted artichoke hearts, sage brown butter, pine nuts, parmesan & sprouts.
And, Three-Bite Key Lime Crisp. Served with homemade vanilla and cinnamon crust. Because, there is always a little room on the dessert shelf - opening for it….
As the night did the day, the sun set, in vibrant colors…gratitude for the gifts, gurus, being the seer of the scenery, taking it all in. Achieve consciousness through the little moments, subtle shifts, intentional living, retreat inwards alone - or alongside a strong sangha. Namaste.