Sadhana Forest Day 5

The Main Hut

Our one and only full day at Sadhana Forest. We woke up at 5:45 by two volunteers playing the drums, it was a very peaceful way to wake up. We were up and out in front of the main hut by 6:15 for the morning circle. We stood in a giant circle, held hands, sang songs and listened to the morning announcements. We headed out to the forest to start the first work session planting trees and bunding. They plant the trees right before monsoon so that they can get the most amount of water to ensure a good start.
Since there were a lot of us we split into groups, one group planted trees while my group did the bunding. Which consists of making piles of dirt in a row so it can catch rain water before it washes off and into the ocean. Just one of their water conservation steps.

At around 8am we went to the main hut for breakfast where we also signed up for second work. I went to Children's Land, which is Sadhana's playground. Some local kids from Apres School came over and we drew pictures of what they would like to see in Children's Land. Most of them ended up drawing random things which had nothing to do with the playground but at they had fun. One girl, however, suggested they put something up where all the kids who visit could write their names. Everyone thought that was a great idea and hopefully they can implement it.
Once again the kids took my camera and went off taking pictures (just like the kids at Bethania did). I didn't mind, they took some crazy pictures... Like this one...

Yoga

Once the kids left we went back for lunch and then it was free time. I just went on my computer, checked emails, charged my camera, everything I needed electricity for really. They are completely off the grid, even their wifi is supported by solar power. At 4 pm one of the volunteers led a yoga class for about an hour and a half, it could have been hot yoga it was so hot out.

Dream Catchers 

We had dinner which was followed by a "Non Talent Show". My friend and I sang Hallelujah. A few people sang songs, played guitar, drums and one even played the didgeridoo and Yorit, one of the founder's of Sadhana, played the accordion. There were two hula hoop performances which were really good and a dance performance by one of Bryan's friends. The rest of the evening was filled with laughs and some great conversations. Too bad tomorrow is our last day.