5 Reasons You Need to Get on the Gorge
5 Reasons You Need to Get on the Gorge
Oxford Dictionary defines the word gorge as “a narrow valley between hills or mountains, typically with steep rocky walls and a stream running through it.”
But to me and many others, gorge has become synonymous with tradition. Every summer for the past three years, my friends and I have gassed up our cars and set off for the New River Gorge—a hidden oasis of rock and water in beautiful West Virginia. In this narrow valley between mountains, we always feel the familiar sense of returning home.
Are you ready for your next adventure? From July 5 to 8, you can spend three nights and four days connecting to yourself, nature and a group of like-minded yogis. There’s still space available, but registration ends Saturday, June 9. Still unsure if Yoga on the Gorge is for you? Here are Five Reasons You Need to Get to the Gorge.
1. Step out of your comfort zone
It isn’t easy to put yourself out there, but you get better with practice. At Yoga on the Gorge, we invite you to take both baby steps and giant leaps outside your self-proclaimed safe space. Whether you’re simply not checking your phone for a few hours, or you’re whitewater rafting through Class V rapids, doing things you aren’t used to trying is good for you.
When you step outside your comfort zone, the rewards can be huge. Sure, new horizons are unfamiliar and often intimidating, but so is a life of fragility and shelter. What do you have to lose?
2. You’ll meet new people
“I am so incredibly grateful for the group of people I’m traveling with,” says PFY Karma Yogi and 2017 YOTG retreater Jamie Marchioni. “I’m so happy to realize there are people like me in this world, who want to sit and just connect on a deeper level.”
At Yoga on the Gorge, you’ll hang out with the friends you haven’t met yet. No matter your age, status or story, you will find your tribe within the gorge’s steep, rocky walls. “It makes me feel less alone,” adds Marchioni. “When I booked this trip, I hardly knew anyone. But after a beautiful class, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner full of laughs. I feel such love and acceptance here, and that’s what these retreats are all about.”
3. Take some time away for yourself
The world is in a state of constant stimulation. People everywhere, phone-in-hand, are hurriedly rushing from one place to the next. We’re so busy, we rarely have enough time to slow down and enjoy our lives.
To me, floating down the New River was like pressing pause on the things going on in my head. The to-do’s, the lists, the noise—none of it mattered anymore. As my mind became quiet, I breathed it all in. I was living in the moment, surrounded by good company and breathtaking scenery.
4. Have it your way
You can make Yoga on the Gorge exactly what you need it to be. If you’re an early riser, feel free to wake up at 6 am and meditate. Not a morning person? No problem. Sleep in and join the rest of the crew when you’re ready.
There are a few scheduled group activities; after all, it is a yoga and hiking retreat. But you’ll have plenty of downtime, too. Feel free to journal, meditate, nap or even take a dip in the pool. Freedom is what I love most about Yoga on the Gorge. You’re free to make this retreat whatever you need it to be.
5. Connect to nature
Nature is fundamentally important for health and happiness. Breathing in fresh mountain air helps improve blood circulation, lowers stress levels and increases natural endorphins. Going to the gorge is a powerful antidote to an urban lifestyle. Most of your days, including mealtime, will be spent outside. Whether you’re staying in a cabin or camping outside, you’ll feel reconnected to the earth.
So what are you waiting for? Sign up for Yoga on the Gorge today!
Have questions? Send an email to retreat@yogaonthegorge.info, and our team will get back to you shortly. Namaste.
Written by Marina Sajina and edited by Powerflow Yoga. This post was originally featured on Marina’s blog, Marina Sajina Yoga.
