Where West Meets East

Being in Varkala, a very laid back westernized beachside town, begs the question, "what are we all searching for?" For some it is the Ultimate Truth, some it is relaxation and ease, some are wanderers enjoying an aimless search. I would say that most tourists here are "taking a break" from the challenges of India travel, enjoying less dress, sun and perhaps a beer or two. Some arrived years ago and never left. As for myself, I am taking advantage of this laid back atmosphere to assimilate, reflect and integrate what I have learned at the ashram by practicing on the beach at sunrise and sunset. It's been amazing. There are so many yogis here. In the morning when you view the beach from the cliffs above, you see many silouettes of bodies creating a posture of thier own. It's beautiful.

Sunsets at this beach are some of the best I've experienced. It's not simpy due to the sun disappearing into the sea and reflecting magnificent golden-orange colors on everything in its path. For, a sunset is only a sunset to the observer. Also the actions taking place during sunset enhance the whole experience. With that said, most everyone comes to the beach during sunset. Including yogis, sitar player, sax player, martial artist, hoopers, poi spinner, improv dancers, and many others. All are immersed in thier own creativity and freakiness. Starting to sound familiar, burners? Yes, as the sun disappears into the Arabian Sea bringing darkness here and light on the other side of the planet I half-way expect to hear cheering and horns honking. However, it is quite peaceful here, despite all the 20 to 30 something tourists.

Varkala is not India. So much so that I feel like a stranger when I eat with my hand. Although this place is easy, comfortable, beautiful and a great place to swap stories, I long for Indian culture. I have about a week more in the motherland and hope to make the best of it.