I’m not sure how to briefly summarize this last month. The last two weeks of classes became very busy and I was making the most of my time, exploring when I could and also studying and preparing for my final exams and practicals. I recieved both my 300hr teacher training certificate as well as my level 3 Reiki certificate, and survived; actually, I would say, I thrived!

As I departed from Bali Tuesday evening, I felt a mix of emotions. Sad saying goodbye to the place I called home for four weeks and the friends I have made. Enlightened and fulfilled from my training and all that I learned. Excited to go home and see everyone I’ve missed. Motivated to continue a consistent yoga and meditation practice. Fortunate to have had the opportunity to take a month long trip to magical Bali. Proud of myself for accomplishing the goals I set for myself. Grateful for my experience and the entirety of the trip.

I do not take for granted the experience I had. The entire experience definitely exceeded my expectations. Lifelong friendships were created, I have new mentors/teachers to help guide me and I feel as if I have new perspectives on the world and life. It may seem ‘woo-woo’ or cliche but truly, the mediation practices paired with being in an idyllic setting and surrounded by like-minded people, cultivates an energy that only you can feel. You feel more connected to the people around you, more connected to the world and really appreciating all that is around us.

We had our graduation ceremony on Wednesday last week (with the 200hr students, since they were completed with their course on that day) and then we had three days of exams and practicals. After our last meditation class together Saturday night, we all went to a nice dinner together to celebrate. There were only ten students in our 300hr cohort; it was nice to have a smaller group for our classes and get to know everyone through the entirety of the month. One of our instructors, Chiara, actually got married this past Sunday. She was so kind to invite all of the 300hr students to her wedding reception! It was so nice to go and enjoy one last evening with my classmates, that I now call friends.

On Monday I went to a morning yoga class at a yoga centre nearby, had breakfast with a couple friends from my class and we walked back together to the school through rice fields and land on a path that was really beautiful. In the evening, I attended a traditional Kecak and Fire Dance show and a dinner at a magical restaurant, all with another girl I had class with. I am so grateful for the friendships made from this experience. I can truly say I have friends in France, Germany, Italy, other states in the US and places in between!

I was also able to have a nice breakfast with Div, our Ayurveda and anatomy instructor on Tuesday morning before leaving. She is the most stylish teacher/professor/instructor I have ever had. Besides that, she also was an amazing teacher and I wanted to talk to her about her online business and Ayurveda school before leaving. She is very inspiring and has such a calm but confident energy about her that I hope to embody.

There were many ceremonies and traditional events that happened while I was in Bali. It was really amazing to see how much time and dedication the Balinese take in these rituals. Costumes and ceremonies and decorations are so beautiful and elaborate. Photos do not do them justice! I got to be part of a week of Galungan. Galungan is a major Hindu holiday in Bali and marks victory of good over evil and celebrates the return of ancestral spirits. It is a ten day festival and at the start of it, every home, temple and business decorates large bamboo poles that are so beautiful and some very elaborate.

Packing was not easy but I made it happen. As you can imagine I did slightly overpack (it was for a whole month!). But I did purchase some locally made clothes, incense, and other items while I was there. Trying to balance the weight of my bag to stay under 50lbs and finding the best packing method was like playing Tetris. Choc, my favorite driver and friend came and picked me up and took me to the airport. I officially said not a ‘goodbye’ to Bali, but a ‘see you next time.’

I am currently about to board my flight here in Singapore to head to San Fransisco and then to Austin! I’ll continue to post photos from my trip on Instagram. Thank you all who have taken the time to follow along and read, I hope you enjoyed!

A profound experience!

Food, geckos and yoga!