Post written by Laura Cococcia. You can follow Laura on Twitter.
I recently decided to become a self-proclaimed cultural anthropologist. The desire to absorb everything I can about the people, places and things that are transforming our world makes me happy.
So, rather than spend exorbitant amounts on a Ph.D., I’m teaching myself. Basically, I’m creating my own cultural classroom.
Enter Miraval. A few weeks ago, I headed back to my personal magical place, Miraval Resort and Retreat Center. I’ve been so fortunate to have traveled all over the world during my lifetime – but there are very few places that I return to over and over again. This was the third time I had been to Miraval this year. Speaks volumes.
While I could write books about Miraval, I’ve decided to share some of the lessons I’ve learned through an ongoing series on TJCC, “Lessons From Miraval.”
Two months ago, I kicked off the series and wrote about Miraval’s signature Equine Experience. It’s just one of many activities Miraval offers – together, every experience can be customized to an individual’s personal interest, based on what one is seeking – challenge, relaxation, fitness or all of the above.
When I arrived this time, I was having a bit of trouble relaxing, mostly because of many recent and exciting life transitions. So, rather than force myself into relaxation, I decided to make my weekend a classroom of learning experiences – and I even colored between the lines this time (something I didn’t do too well in my younger classroom days).
From my most recent experience, here’s a small snapshot what I learned in my Miraval classroom.
1. I, too, can be a nature expert. Without a degree.
John, who leads many of the Miraval challenge experiences, took my on a 2 hour hike (he also guided me on my climbing wall experience during my second visit).
During the hike, we talked about a number of things – including our favorite movies – but the most memorable lesson was about nature. I learned not just about specific plants or animals but about how we can all become ‘naturalists’ in a way without having a degree. It’s just about paying attention to the details.
The other cool part is that we encountered a number of cows, which happen to be my favorite animal.
2. Vitamin C is not only good for colds, it’s awesome for our skin.
You may already know this, but it was a lesson for me. I always see the same facial specialist at Miraval – and happen to be a facial addict – and she’s taught me something new each time. We don’t have to buy expensive products either – there are a number of ways to get your skin’s Vitamin C doses.
I also went to a Miraval lecture about this – and learned a number of facts and figures to back it up.
And, of course, we can’t forget the power of water for our skin and our bodies. I don’t drink enough and whenever I go to Miraval, I just fall into the water-drinking habit. My skin’s great, I have more energy – it’s that simple.
3. Meditation clears the mind, even if your mind jumps around during it.
Aah, meditation. My mind is a racetrack; slowing it down is always a struggle.
I took a chakra meditation class with about 20 other folks. I tried not to move, cough, scratch my head – and did all three. As I started breathing – attempting to calm myself down – my mind hopscotched from question to question: “What do I have to do for work next week? Did I buy the hiking boots I wanted yet?” “Did I remember to write the blog post about how I love cows?” Not about chakras at all.
After we finished, I asked the meditation leader if this was normal. Did I fail the meditation class? Not at all, he said. You are a meditator, he told me. Just by taking the class and noticing that my mind was jumping is the first step and is 100% completely normal. It’s part of the process.
Phew.
For me, creating my own classroom is about experiencing, reading and writing. I’ve learned a lot of this at Miraval and brought it into my day-to-day life. It’s all about experimenting.
How do you learn? Do you have your own cultural or life classroom? Who or what teaches you?
And yes, this homework should be fun.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Laura, I love how you're creating your own classroom – so creative! I have a few ideas of my own. Really enjoyed this post.
Thanks Marline! It's a bit of a new experiment but this new way of thinking is keeping my creative juices flowing! I think having a haven to go to like Miraval definitely keeps my brain clear enough to do that. Again, thanks for joining in the conversation!
I have been to Miraval too, though not as many times as you. I've always learned something new – especially about myself. Look forward to the series, Laura.
@anonymous – I'm glad you enjoy Miraval as much as I do. Look forward to hearing about your experiences and feel free to email me if you'd like to include them in the Miraval series!
I have been frightened of trying yoga/meditation classes because I suffer from Monkey Mind and have know idea how to quiet it. Maybe I should stop worrying about doing it right and just do it.
Being in nature is very healing. During my writing residency in 2008, I had a koi pond near my studio. One evening I stayed out there and danced with the fireflies deep into the dark of night. In the West we don't have fireflies, so I felt like a child chasing them.
I hope you share more from your stay at Miraval Laura.
@Dawn Maria – I'm so glad someone else can relate to the Monkey Mind! I will definitely share more of my experiences and promise to let you know when I go back!