“Within nature, within the natural world, are all of the materials and tenets for healing human beings. Nature is the textbook for those who care to study it and the storehouse of remedies for human ills.”
“Safari”, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary states; “the caravan and equipment of a hunting expedition especially in eastern Africa.”
An African safari is a journey, an expedition – yet many of us prefer to hunt with our cameras. Lately I have been thinking about other kinds of journeys; the journey within, the safari of our lives, the expedition that leads us to search for the meaning of all this.
There are the safaris, (or journeys) we take outward, and the ones that lead us inward, and then…there are also those that do both. I don’t know about you, but every time I’ve traveled, I’ve found that there has been an inward journey. I’ve learned something of myself, of others, of life – I am different. Here’s something else, I don’t think you can mention safari without discussing nature.
The healing properties of nature and travel are something that I have also been thinking about – a lot. I do believe that nature, wherever found, can be one of the most effective treatments for the wounded, the weary, or the brokenhearted. In my own moments of need, I turn to her. And, because of this busy, techno-crazed, existence I’ve gotten myself into, I often need to take a hike (literally); travel to the wildest place I can find, and bring myself back to center.
Therefore, it was not surprising when I learned that my friend, Shannon Paige; a renowned author, activist, motivational speaker, and dedicated teacher of yoga and…so much more (I’ll go into later), expressed the desire to lead a Wellness Retreat in Africa. Yoga in Africa?
Well, here’s the thing about Shannon; she’s a woman who thinks outside of the box, she’s a groundbreaker. She is the founder of Anjali Restorative Yoga and Bala Therapeutic Yoga, (and a myriad of other accomplishments), while continuing to help literally thousands of people throughout world.
Shannon had a clear vision of what she wanted to accomplish. She felt drawn to explore the mysteries, wisdom and wonder of Africa; including ancient therapies, traditional dance and movement. And in doing so, find the restorative, healing essence which is unique to Africa. Perhaps, best understood in Shannon’s own words,
“I dream of Africa, often and in great color. I have yet to go and it holds a mystery to me that has only built with the deepening of my years. This coming year, a dream commences. We will step from a plane onto the ancient earth of a mystical and radically real continent. This wellness excursion to East Africa involves safari, tribal connection, yoga, cooling lessons, incredible connections with like minded seekers and more visual beauty than one can imagine.”
When I sat with the planning team and was asked, “Shannon, what is your dream trip?” I let it rip. I told them I wish to meet the Maasai and see searingly beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and engage gentle and supportive yoga to support our excursions. I talked about the animals I wish us to meet and the food I cannot wait to eat! I am confident that this will be the trip of our lifetime. Join us…Let’s dream of Africa together.” – Shannon Paige
This safari, now the Tanzania Wellness Safari is extraordinary – a once in a lifetime experience.
Just a few activities:
- Organic cooking classes and meals
- Wildlife viewing
- Time for meditation, reflection, and relaxation
- Traditional African dance and music
- Stargazing
- Motivational Speakers
- Game drives
- Walking Safaris
– And yes, gentle, restorative yoga, suitable for beginners, side by side with Shannon, overlooking the plains of the Serengeti and the beaches of Zanzibar.
As many times as I have been on safari, I have never seen an itinerary or anything quite like this one. If I know Shannon and I know Africa, this will be a “life-changer”, a journey inward and outward –a restorative journey to wellness.
The Tanzania Wellness Safari occurs in both June and December of 2014. To ensure the best experience for all participants, space is limited. Please contact: Mahree@adventureinafrica or call 720-612-0802 for more information.
