17 February 2025
I am finally feeling better today and managed to get up early for a short yoga practice. Moving my body after days of being unwell felt like a much-needed reset, clearing the fog that had settled in my mind and muscles.
For many Westerners, India can be a challenge. Time moves differently here—plans unfold at their own pace, and carefully scheduled timelines often dissolve into fluid uncertainty. Patience takes on a whole new meaning when you realize that an errand could take an hour, a day, or even a week. We are so accustomed to rushing from one task to the next that we rarely allow ourselves the time to simply be. And yet, despite what may seem like inefficiency to an outsider, things get done. The important things always fall into place, and people here seem genuinely content. Perhaps they understand something we don’t—how to let life flow organically rather than forcing it into rigid schedules.
Keeping this in mind, we sat with Guruji today to help plan the upcoming Skills Development Camp. Classes will begin early with a 6:30 AM yoga session and continue throughout the day, leading up to puja (evening prayers and singing) and dinner. The structure is simple but intentional, allowing for both learning and spiritual connection.
Beyond planning, today was mostly about rest. In a few days, we will be visiting Rampura, Guruji’s fruit farm—a welcome change of scenery and an opportunity to immerse in local farm life. I’m also looking forward to a trip to Jodhpur, where I can finally restock on a few essentials—especially coffee! Chai is one of the few teas I truly enjoy, but I do miss my morning coffee ritual. While the ashram provides healthy, organically grown meals, the surrounding village doesn’t offer much in terms of variety. Snacks are limited to chips, possibly expired chocolates, and a sparse selection of fizzy drinks. A little indulgence will be well-earned.
During these quieter days, I’ve also had the chance to get to know Lisa better. Being the only two English speakers here, our friendship has become a comforting anchor in this unfamiliar yet beautiful world.
