Ever wonder what it would be like to gather with 30 other people radically devoted to opening to love, intimacy and sexuality for a whole weekend at a clothing optional hot spring? Well, two weeks ago I got the opportunity. I attended a Human Awareness Institute retreat at Harbin. To say that I was ready to experience more closeness was an understatement. I was desperate for a container to help me feel grounded in love while experiencing extreme life changes.
I couldn't have landed in a better place. It was real, raw and revolutionary!
Here are the insights I gained from the experience...
1. Don't Get Fooled By the Human Spacesuit. It was amazing how quickly I made assumptions about people based on their superficial appearance. I realized that I unconsciously assessed everyone in our circle and created a story in my mind about how some of them were "different" than me. These slightly unconscious judgements were based on demeanor, age, demographic, body posture and size, age, clothing, etc. In the end, I was blown away by the depth, tenderness and presence in all present. Some of the most precious moments I shared were with those I would have initially assumed I had the least in common with. Lesson: Appreciate each and every person as a divine being of love. Cultivate this ability as a sacred practice.
2. Touch More. There was so much hugging and touching at this retreat! It felt so nurturing to be able to connect with people in a safe way with boundaries which allowed melting. I had forgotten how deeply the human body needs contact for it's health and well-being until I was saturated with it. Lesson: Initiate feel-good, respectful touch as much as possible. It just feels good.
3. Be the Source of Intimacy. I realized that I have the power to initiate closeness simply by virtue of how I am breathing with someone, how I gaze at them and how I tenderly behold their presence. I realized that I don't have to wait for others to give me touch and depth of presence. I can never be a "victim" of intimacy's lack because I am in the power position of being able to generate it! Lesson: There can ever be a "scarcity" of intimacy. Take 100% responsibility to be the source and you will always be surrounded by it.
4. Forgive. The beautiful exercises helped me realize how we all, men and women, have had experiences of hurt in our lives. In many instances, these have formed our expectations of what is possible in relationship. When we take the time to forgive those who we feel have "wronged" us, we clear the way for more love in our lives. Lesson: Generously love both men and women. Create a safe environment for them with your compassion. Do your own inner work so you can feel safe, loving, and open with everyone.
5. Be A Love Angel. We have the capacity to be angels of love in our lives, bestowing bright, sparkling affection on all we meet. An angel sees the divine in everyone, regardless of the human spacesuit. An angel's purpose is to radiate light. Lesson: Commit to being an angel of love in your community and open to the miracles which will unfold.
I highly recommend HAI retreats for anyone seeking transformation, heart-opening and conscious community.
xoxo
Christabel
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