A LITTLE OF MY STORY
In the embrace of a tranquil morning on February 3, 2024, the Somatheeram Hospital and Yoga Center beckoned me to its golden sand Azhimalathara Beach, to witness the Healing Power of the Ocean. Amidst the gentle symphony of nature, the dawn unveiled a canvas of serenity and welcomed only a few early risers to the soothing chorus of seagulls. The majestic emerald-green ocean stretched out endlessly, captivating my senses with its vast expanse, undisturbed by the cacophony of man-made noises. A handful of scattered swimmers and distant fishing boats painted the morning scene. The sun had claimed its place in the sky, yet the faded crescent moon lingered, a silent witness to the unfolding serenity. In a world often dominated by commercialized beaches, this sanctuary offered a rare opportunity to connect with nature’s pristine beauty. The magnetic allure of the ocean drew me in, promising solace and renewal. After the early morning yoga session at the center, I decided to take a stroll by the shore.
Feeling under the weather with a cold, fever and body ache, I yearned for and surrendered to the therapeutic touch of nature. Let the universe awaken the healing power within me. Spiritual seekers often mention the potent energy experienced by the ocean, at mountain peaks, or deep in the secluded forests, where the absence of man-made pollution enhances the profound connection with nature. My decision to spend solitary time at the shore proved rewarding. I let my feet immersed in water, relishing the feeling of sand melting beneath them, stirring memories.
After some time, I settled down on a bench, attempting to realign myself with nature. Observing my breath, rising and falling in sync with the ocean waves, letting go of my thoughts, I was there to witness my presence, not thinking of the past or the future, just being in the present morning.
Among the tranquil surroundings, a church on the sand stands witness as a few visitors express their grief. In the background, the distant echoes of temple prayers complement the scene. A group of fishermen, clinging to their fishing net on the shore moving forward and backward with the tides, harmonized a rhythmic song. Later, as I approached them, it became evident that the day’s catch hadn’t mirrored their efforts.
Sitting on the bench, I observed the waves -powerful ones crashing on the shore and gentle ones caressing the sandy floor. The previous day, while overlooking the dining hall at the yoga center, I noticed the horizon at eye level. Now, seated on the bench once again, I couldn’t help but observe that the horizon still appeared at my eye level. How could that be possible? These are two different elevations I’m referring to. The illusion serves as a testament to nature’s mysterious prowess.
Adding to this, water, the master artist, effortlessly drew symmetrical geometrical patterns on the sand with each returning wave, resembling a masterpiece of woven linen fabric. Humans typically learn to draw with a pencil much later in life, but here, water, being liquid, effortlessly created lines with minimal effort. I marveled at this display of effortless perfection. Rhythmic patterns are prevalent in nature, and in the past, I was mesmerized by the hypnotic patterns of sunflowers. Today, however, I was captivated by the ocean’s enchanting tales of wonder, as it skillfully wove a tapestry of thoughts. I am sure the patterns on the sand tell the story of undercurrents.
Breaking my solitude, a vendor approached with a collection of cards intricately drawn by schoolchildren on dried banyan tree leaves. Understanding that the proceeds supported their school, and being an advocate for education, I couldn’t decline, despite not having come prepared with money for the beach. In many parts of India, the first customer of the day is considered a good luck charm. Knowing this, I hesitated to negotiate much, especially when the funds were intended for a school. Although I couldn’t pay immediately, the vendor trusted me and handed over four cards for a thousand rupees. I carefully selected four cards and promised to bring the money from my room later, or he could conveniently collect it from the reception desk. As I made my choices, I took the opportunity to inquire about his family. With broken English, he shared that he has two daughters, one in her first year at engineering college, and the other attending a different college. It was a heartening revelation, adding a personal touch to the exchange.
As the sun ascended, casting its warm embrace, I retraced my steps on the golden sand towards the Ayurvedic yoga center (Click to read my experience), letting my pain dissolve and allowing profound gratitude to fill my heart.
Feb 3rd ‘24
Manorama Choudhury
Thank you for reading! Feel free to like, share, and explore more of my posts. Stay tuned!
Biraja Mahapatra
08/17/2024So happy reading your piece. Too good.
Manorama Choudhury
08/17/2024Spending some lonely time with nature is so rewarding. You may also enjoy https://manorama.me/holistic-well-being-with-ancient-wisdom/
Thank you for sharing your feedback to encourage.
Tapan kumar Mohanty
08/19/2024Do u know why we feel refreshed near a sea shore or in a dense forest. Needless to say the Oxygen level is high from H2O in sea n emmitted O from plants in forests. Its pleasant that the shore is clean n mostly not crowded which adds to its serenity.May b it is heaven like. Enjoy
in the lap of nature n forget ur worries n a touch with Divinity.
Arjun Purohit
08/18/2024Serene beauty of morning with rising sun and fading moon was beautifully captured in your writing. I could feel your feelings through your words. Thanks for sharing.
Manorama Choudhury
08/19/2024Thank you and much regards for sharing your kind words. You may also enjoy my stay at Somatheeram Center. https://manorama.me/holistic-well-being-with-ancient-wisdom/
Many other blogs or reflections that you may enjoy.
Tapan kumar Mohanty
08/19/2024Do u know why we feel refreshed near a sea shore or in a dense forest. Needless to say the Oxygen level is high from H2O in sea n emmitted O from plants in forests. Its pleasant that the shore is clean n mostly not crowded which adds to its serenity.May b it is heaven like. Enjoy
in the lap of nature n forget ur worries n a touch with Divinity.
Manorama Choudhury
08/19/2024Aha..more oxyzen! Thank you for reading and sharing the facts. Finding a clean beach for enjoying nature’s serenity is a rare thing.
Varsha Mahale
08/26/2024Manu, You have pen down your experience of,”Somatheeram Hospital and Yoga Center” so beautifully that I have added this place into my To-do list! Thank you for sharing your experience and making us aware of this place with your writing. When I was reading this article, it felt like, I am at that place enjoying this pure & serene beauty……
Manorama Choudhury
08/27/2024Thank you Varsha for your lovely words! It was a beautiful experience worth sharing. I am also looking forward to back there.
Dr. Mrs. Nalini Patnaik
09/04/2024Yes Nature exists as a healer.
It heals when our soul bleeds.
We feel it’s beauty we can’t conquer nature but we can merge with it to be in eternal peace.
Beautiful writing 👌
Manorama Choudhury
09/18/2024No doubt nature heals us if we genuinely surrender. Thank you for reading and sharing your kind words. 🌺