"your lifes journey has an inner and an outer purpose. the outer purpose is to reach at your goal or destination, to accomplish what you set out to do, to achieve this implies future. if your destination, or the steps you are going to take in the future, take up so much of your attention that they become more importanat to you than the step you are taking Now, then you completely miss the journeys inner purpose, which has nothing to do with where your going or what your doing, but everything to do with how. it has nothing to do with the quality of your consciousness at this MOMENT.
your outer journey may contain a million steps, your inner journey has one: the step you are taking now. as you become more deeeply aware of this one step, you realise it already contains within itself all the other steps as well as the destination. this one step becomes transformed into an expression of perfection, an act of great beauty and quality. it will have taken you into BEing, and the light of being will shine through it. this is both the purpose and the fulfillment of your inner journey, the journey into yourself."
Thoughts...
"A man (women) is but the product of his (her) thoughts. What he (she) thinks, he (she) becomes" ~* Henry Ford
"BE the change you want to see in this world" ~* Ghandi
LiFe back in Yangshuo, China
May, 2011.
Nihau! A few photos to share of my recent time back in Yangshuo where I used to work as a climbing guide back in 2005. 'Great times being back with friends and climbing in China.'
Whether its feeling the flow through powder snow or yoga, on a wave, or on the rock - 'flow' is an incredible feeling that I aim for and will forever love. To be climbing again, after many months of hibernation was too good to be true to feel the 'flow' again . To share it in such a special place as Yangshuo, with old friends was amazing.
I was so proud to come back after six years and see my Chinese friends rockin' it ! Xiang now owns his own company www.terratribes.com and has just guided some of the USA climbing team through China. Aban now climbs for China, sponsored by North Face and has his own hostel. Tommy is managing ChinaClimb, www.chinaclimb.com and loving life. And Xiao is about to start his new company 'Harmony adventures'. I find these guys so inspiring - six years ago they had limited English, and were nervous to speak in front of groups, and now they successfully run their businesses and guide through China! Legends ! :) So cool to see them living their dream.
Shay Shay Ni to you all for having me, and sharing your incredible crags and country with me. With gratitude to you all. Ni FENG LAA!! ox
With Malaika - Hong Kong
Photo: www.terratribes.com
Bamboo rafting, Yangshuo - so much fun to be had!
With Aban( sponsored by North Face and climbs for China), Tommy manager of www.chinaclimb.com, and Xiang, owner of www.terratribes.com. Old and great friends. Shay shay ni :)
Xiang freeeee ! Yewwww!
This is the life! hows the serenity?! Magic*spot.
My old work crew from www.chinaclimb.com NI FENG LA! ox
Photo: www.terratribes.com
Nihau! A few photos to share of my recent time back in Yangshuo where I used to work as a climbing guide back in 2005. 'Great times being back with friends and climbing in China.'
Whether its feeling the flow through powder snow or yoga, on a wave, or on the rock - 'flow' is an incredible feeling that I aim for and will forever love. To be climbing again, after many months of hibernation was too good to be true to feel the 'flow' again . To share it in such a special place as Yangshuo, with old friends was amazing.
I was so proud to come back after six years and see my Chinese friends rockin' it ! Xiang now owns his own company www.terratribes.com and has just guided some of the USA climbing team through China. Aban now climbs for China, sponsored by North Face and has his own hostel. Tommy is managing ChinaClimb, www.chinaclimb.com and loving life. And Xiao is about to start his new company 'Harmony adventures'. I find these guys so inspiring - six years ago they had limited English, and were nervous to speak in front of groups, and now they successfully run their businesses and guide through China! Legends ! :) So cool to see them living their dream.
Shay Shay Ni to you all for having me, and sharing your incredible crags and country with me. With gratitude to you all. Ni FENG LAA!! ox
~* SANTOSHA *~
April 2011
Santosha means contentment. Contentment of where you are, what your doing at this present moment, what you have in your life, and who you are.
Meaning that at any given moment, I can accept 'what is' and if I don't have the power to change it - then letting it go and just BEing.
I am given so many moments on a daily basis that I am given time, and rather than enjoying it, and being grateful for this moment, I can end up feeling inpatient, frustrated and use up wasted energy.
These are moments I cannot change - so I should accept it and use the moment to give thanks for having that friend who is late, and even being grateful in having a computer or car in the first place.
With the latest 6.1 earthquake in my home town Otautahi/ Christchurch it is a challenge for me to find Santosha- my contentment. I was just about to go into my graduation where I had just completed my second 200 hour Yoga teacher training through Santosha Yoga, run by Sunny Richards-Glasser when I heard the horrific news. With no communication from my sister and dad and some close friends I went into shock as I waited for a couple of hours close to the computer. At long last I finally heard my Dad and sister were alive, and slowly one by one my friends updated their Facebook status to say they were safe. Through my graduation - tears were released as beauty songs were sung, though my heart and mind was back home with everyone and knew and what was their current reality. There was already many deaths, and most of the CBD had collapsed along with many of our old historic buildings. It has been declared that Christchurch was in a national state of emergency.
A decision was made after 2 weeks of the earthquake had passed I could no longer find Santosha in Australia. Even amongst beautiful waves, lovely people, hot sunshine, and a job - my heart was at home. As we drove into christchurch from the airport just after midnight sadness filled me. Roads were torn, buidlings were collasped, and it was so quiet and eerie. No longer could you surf at the beach, as the water was contaminated. How do you find Santosha when there is so many people suffering in a very real way of their loved ones who died, their house collapsed and made redundant?
I was getting used to a very simple life again of no electricity and water - and quietly reflecting on how much STUFF I have.
Soon after I watched in horror as we saw on the internet the tsunami hit Japan after their 8.8 earthquake.
There is no words to describe another devastating natural disaster. Again my heart raced to my loved Japanese friends who I had just met through my yoga training, and to kiwi friends living in the area too.
Soon after 9 people from the USAR (urban search and rescue) came round to our home and gave it a yellow sticker declaring it was no longer safe to live, and enter at your own risk. With cracked piles in the foundation of the house and exteriory outer damage we quickly packed up the house and left. We all felt very blessed in the weeks we had been living there, we were all OK amongst the daily after shocks.
Since leaving, I have been fortunate enough to have friends let me stay and have found some temporary work. In this time the word 'Santosha' kept coming to me. Where and how do I find this right now ...?
I sure wasn't getting it as I drove through the torn roads, feeling homeless, hearing sad and real stories from friends and my head space becoming more down by the moment.
I knew Yoga was the way forward. And if any time more than ever, now was the TIME, to create a dream of mine that I have had for years - to run a 'Yoga4Surfers Programme!' The earthquake and the after effects from it gave me the confidence and drive to get out there and teach. I knew our local surfing community could not surf because of the water contamination and wanted to provide a way they could relax and still keep surfing strong. It so far has been a success, and most monday nights we have about 13 people coming. It has given me so much inner happiness to see people stoked on the fusion between surfing and yoga. A huge thanks to the Sumner Rugby club for offering their space as a venue for this to happen, as the local gym and community centre are earthquake damaged. Tuesday night yoga has since commenced which also gives me so much happiness.
I found a sense of *Santosha* again amongst the rubble. Some days are still not easy... I miss not being able to surf at our local, I miss the ocean views from our whare and sometimes the aftershocks feel too much - but so much to remain grateful for. So many friends have opened up their home for me and community spirit is alive :)
I hope santosha is a life long lesson that I will remember and grow from daily.
"To be happy and content in my surroundings. To be content in who I am. To be content (as much as I can) in this present moment. :)
Ai Takusan to Arigato Gozaimasu Nihongo Tomodachi. Ai Chunyuuu !!! Aroha and thanks to all my new Santosha friends. You each have taught me something new and so stoked our paths crossed. Look forward to the next adventure with you all I hope soon :) Your always welcome here in Aotearoa/New Zealand. xxx
The army coming into help
"Letting the Mountains speak for themselves...."
In April 2009, five special young adults who all live with late effects of Cancer treatment came together to experience their first ever six day wilderness journey in the Kahurangi National Park of Aotearoa, New Zealand. The journey for each of us, in our own ways was incredibly inspiring and powerful to be a part of. It had been a 2 year journey in the making that Paddy, Adventure therapist and Belynda, Nurse Specialist had been working towards; spending many long hours organizing the funding and logistics. It was a New Zealand first , after Paddy had been inspired by the 'Tip of the Toes Foundation' in Canada where they run similar cancer journeys. We were extremely lucky to have Mickey and Alex from join us and volunteer their time and energy into the project. I was extremely grateful to have been offered to come as an outdoor instructor and knew it would be a healing process for me, having recently lost my own mother to cancer. With Paddy's expertise in Adventure therapy and Belyndas in cancer health care, we were kitted out as a well rounded team to face what lay ahead.
Five nervous and excited faces turned up to Waipuna Trust early on Thursday 25th March each with their own story, apprehensive of the journey ahead. After a special haka, hongi and waiata from the Waipuna Trust team we departed Christchurch knowing little of each other, but each sharing a common purpose and goal of the journey. To learn, grow, experience and challenge ourselves and each other and work together as a team. It wasn't long before the barriers between each of us started to break down as we put on our best Irish accents and cracked some jokes, as we drove north together. Walking into Flora hut as dusk started to set in, I began to hear what they had experienced and overcame in their very young lives with child hood cancer. As the week progressed, I was continuously humbled and inspired by their wisdom, incredible positive attitudes and approach to life in a very real way. It again made me realise how easy it can be in todays society to let small mundane things get you down that are insignificant in the big scale of things. At the end of the day we each have a choice of how we choose to live life and respond to different situations that life presents to us. It was a reminder for me too, to be continuously grateful for my own health and well-being.
Salisbury lodge sunrise -Kahurangi
Day two we awoke bright and early and started the gradual incline to GridIron shelter. Not only was it the first time that they each had carried a 10-15kg pack but also to be away from the ease of a city's comfort. Running tap water was replaced by fetching water from the stream for cooking, showers were replaced by well - no showers, and the tree-rooted bumpy tracks didn't quite resemble the concrete footpaths found in town, nor the gradient ! It was also a first for them to experience tramping in one of New Zealand's National parks. It wasn't long before some packs started to become to feel like elephants, and body aches/bruises became very apparent as they each got used to navigating new terrain. With every challenge, the team faced it and took it in their stride as we shared the load. We made it to Grid Iron shelter for lunch where the first 1kg of luncheon and chutney was cranked open which became the groups constant joke and food for the week! The call was made within the group to get to Salisbury lodge by dusk so off we set with our bellies full of 'Chub' (luncheon) with the group goal of making it to the top. It was a very real challenge as a group in making it to the lodge that evening. Bodies, minds and emotions were stretched in new ways as we walked with heavy packs through the native beech trees, onto the rolling tussock hills above. It was strong determination and incredible team work that carried us through the eight hours that it took to walk the 12.6km from door to door.
Sighs of relief and 'Yahoo's' were heard, as we walked our final steps up to Salisbury lodge as the sun set. As one, we had made it through the sweat, and at times 'doubt' and fear. It wasn't long before dinner was underway and our tired aching bodies finally lay at rest as the full moon shone down on us through the bunk room window. The decision was made that morning to base ourselves at the lodge for the next few days and explore the local area and bush around the lodge. It was an incredible few days of learning native plants names and the environmental care code, writing self-affirmations, and learning as a team how to cook, clean and care for each other in a very new way. I could see with each new day the group becoming more cohesive as they began to relax and unwind in their new environment away from their homes comforts. At times the silence in nature was difficult as some reflected on close friends and family members they had lost both recently and through their lives. The silence brought up new thoughts, questions and conversations as well as many answers unknown. Through Mikey's incredible talent of guitar playing and letting nature do what it does best - I believe a lot of healing took place in those moments.
On Day five we waved goodbye to the (now) very familiar and comfortable surroundings of Salisbury lodge. The five of them charged ahead of us relying on each other to cross hard sections of the trail and streams. It was clearly evident how much they had grown individually and as a team as they easily hiked down giving each other constant encouragement and support with each step they took. As we arrived back into Flora hut that evening, the group were on form - cutting up wood for the fire, putting their tents up, checking the mountain radio, getting dinner started and feeling so at ease with nature. A huge and noticeable progression from five days earlier. As we filed through the car park gate the next morning, shrieks of happiness were heard all around as everyone celebrated success both on a personal and group level.
With a quick stop in Motueka for fish and chips, we carried on our journey to Pelorous Sound where a much needed shower, and bunk bed awaited us. The next two days were spent reflecting on our own time in the Kahurangi National Park. With each young person, an interview was carried out where we heard on a personal level how that time was for them. Comments were made that " I feel much stronger now as a person", " I believe in myself more now" and " when I get back to town, I want to get a job". It was an incredible experience to be a part of, to hear first hand of how this journey impacted them and what learning they would each take away.
As we drove back into car park of Waipuna in Christchurch where we had departed nine days prior, I felt each of us had experienced new personal insight in our different ways. Even weeks later at the Graduation ceremony, it was amazing to see the young people stand proud and share their story of their learning that took place in the Kahurangi National Park. I was so grateful to be apart of the journey, and nature once again showed me how powerful and healing it can be. I truly believe in the quote I once learned in, "letting the mountains speak for themselves".
Climbn' zee AlpS
TIKI Saab - Machaby - Italian Alps
-
Min / max altitude:380m / 796m -
Elevation gain / loss:+400m -
Difficulties lenght:300m -
Main facing:S
Route type:loop / walk down to the base of the climb or hut
Duration:1 days- Global rating:TD-
-
Commitment grade:I
Free climb grade:6a
Free climb grade required:5c
Aid grade:A0
Quality of in-place protection:P1 (well bolted)
Magical day on the Rock! :) Overlooking from pitch 3-Tiki Saab
This was a super incredible route and day on the rock, soaking up the hot Italian rays with good mates. Climbed with Duncan and met with the crew at the top after a hard 10 pitches in muggy windy conditions. Finished in classy Itailiano' style with home brewed Vinos that flowed, and incredible food.... Tu-meke!
Allahn topping out on pitch 10-what a ride!
A super inspirational man..johnny falkiner...skier/climber/explorer and incredible teacher of breath n' fluidity!
www.johnfalkiner.com
www.johnfalkiner.com
It was an incredible week working at La Source Yoga/ski chalet in Samoens , France (www.sourcealps.com). Saskia, Duncs, Miki Bee and Jay River run the joint there and it was a huge privilege to meet them and they have since remained great friends. "La Source is a unique green ski, yoga and adventure sports lodge in Samoens, the French Alps, 1 hour from Geneva. The designer eco-renovated 1865 farm has been described as a ‘Hip 21st Century Commune’! Founded on principles of sustainability, inter-connection, and personal growth, La Source is a place where you can tune in to your own beat and just ‘be’!
I learnt a lot from Johnny Falkiner about breath and fludity of movement on the rock. Johhny guides mountain and climbing trips all over the world including Kashmir, Lebanon and Elbrus. I was blown away by his teachings of breath and fluidity on the rock, and still to this day, I pass on the knowledge that he taught me, in my rock climbing classes. "Climbing- breathe-focus- being in the moment-" Merci Johnny.
We all had an awesome week of yoga and climbing, great food and vino was enjoyed, new climbing friendships were made, bodies ached in a dream-state way and once again I left the Euro Alps with a huge Smile. x
Lovin' the Samoens crags !
6a+ Samoens, France.
This place was unbelievably beautiful ! .... And Super styley Rock :)
With new found friends - enjoying the Alps, sun and Rock :)
Me- Saskia - Anne - Leanna
CHILL winter 2010
Eric and Flo hiking for the goodness
August 2010
Sometimes life throws things at you when you least expect and I wonder 'why has this happened?' I am continually learning how you deal with these situations can either leave you feeling pretty down - OR hope of moving forward in a different way than you had previously thought.
Within a moment my mums eyes closed for ever, and even one year later it is not always an easy ride.Within a moment, a shark underfoot my ski's and taking a corner too fast resulted in a torn MCL and a hope of a season skiing back in NZ demolished. Dreamland bubble popped - 2 months rehab and no work. I know its my choice in how I deal with different situations that arise and what learning I can take away in the best possible way :) A definite reminder to how much I can take my body for granted and how important friends and family are.
It was a crazy last week in Europe, finishing work in Wales, and a quick jet-set trip to Biaritz and Amsterdam en-route to Castle Hill for a season of skiing! The first CHILL season skiing and living at C.hill since 2006.Was super stoked to fly into chch at midnight and with a couple of hours sleep we were already driving north in 'schurli' with Ferdi, Marco, Sepe and Flo for a 70cem fresh (?!) day at Lyford!
It was super awesome to have the Austrian crew out from Obertauern and to show them my wonderland at the clubfields. Days were spent Apres' ski golf at the Village, ridin' the clubbies, chasing rabbits, cooking up mean feeds, and soaking up life chillin' at the C.HILL. During the K2 Big Mountain comp Euro's flocked to Craigies and Mt O - it was awesome to watch some extremely talented athletes hit some huge cliffs and lines. C.H.V became a mini-euro backpackers in that week, new friendships were made and we shared some good nights and fun lines! Danke Schone :)
Big cheers to Schurli, Seb, Flo, Spitzee, Ferdi and Marco for coming out to C.Hill and sharing my wonderland. And big ups to Kai, Eric, Johannes, Bastl and Travis for a super fun week. Kia Kaha
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