Impromptu Adventure

I ran away from home yesterday. As the Sun rose upon what promised to be a Glorious day, and the Moon shifted into Aquarius, I had an overwhelming desire to set out upon an Adventure and ‘take in the waters’. There are many hot springs in Northern California, and the healing waters are an incredible gift I feel Blessed to have enjoyed since I returned here. I’m a strong proponent of day trips, which allow one to explore neighbouring areas, escaping daily routines for mini-vacations that can energize and enrich our lives. I have had such fun scouting out rivers, lakes, new trails to hike, parks to play in, museums to peruse, admiring the Beauty of the Botanical Garden, and partaking in a special journey to the Butterfly Garden. I had been wanting to check out Harbin Hot Springs for years, and as it perfectly matched my desire for soaking, I dared myself to pack a bag, jump in the car, and finally make my way to this famous retreat center.

Through lush green mountains I drove, Sun shining Magnificently, as I made my way past miles of vineyards in their neat rows, fields of brightly coloured wildflowers, and many winding roads. As I crossed into Napa County, I thought about the rich history of the resort, and decided I would allow myself to spend a full 24 hours there, perking my excitement of the opportunities for which this could allow. I had set intentions for as much soaking time as possible in a days time, a Watsu treatment, and a surrendered journey of receiving. As Harbin is known as the ‘Birthplace of Watsu’, I could not think of a better place to get this unique and relaxing experience. The practitioner floats the recipient around the pool, fully supporting the body, while applying gentle stretching techniques based upon the principles of Zen Shiatsu. I have found it to be a Beautiful yoga in surrender, trust and knowing that one will be supported. It is also incredibly relaxing.

Upon my arrival, I could not resist snapping the above picture of the springs before saying goodbye to my iPhone, adhering to the request that guests leave cell phones and picture-taking devices in the car. When I asked a kind womyn for directions I was greeted with, “I lived here for a year, I’ll show you around.” She walked me up the hillside, past the market, cafe, library, rows of housing structures and rooms, and up to the pool area, which is nestled into the mountainside and surrounded by sweeping views of the valley below. “Are you hungry?” she asked, handing me a freshly made veggie omelet sandwich. I expressed my Gratitude, to which she replied, “You’re a very good receiver, Antonia.” I smiled, knowing I was off to a very good start with my intentions. What followed included a LOT of soaking, a Watsu under the stars at midnight, meditation in the pools as the red, orange Sunrise rose on one side of the sky and the crescent Moon still shone on the other, and another Watsu by the same certified practitioner. She’s a gifted Masseuse who turned me into a marshmallow. I had finally made my way to Harbin, and I accepted the Amazing gifts, one after the other, in Loving Gratitude. What local explorations could allow for Beautiful gifts in your life, Dear Reader?

Love and Blessings,
Antonia