Heights are just not my thing . But , there I was dangling in a safety harness 40-feet off the ground . The group below , who had just moments ago hoisted me up to this point by pulling on a rope in tug-of-war style , yelled encouraging comments to me . The leader told me to breathe deeply , enjoy the beautiful scenery and set a personal intention before letting go of the rope clenched in my right hand . To be honest , my intention was to get down from this scary place as soon as possible because I knew if I spent any amount of time appreciating the desert landscape or tried to engage in some intense soul searching , I ’ d lose my nerve .
I had signed up for this activity , aptly named “ A Swing and a Prayer ,” because I wanted to put myself in a situation that would get me outside of my comfort zone . And as heights present a continuous challenge to me , the experience seemed tailormade to my needs .
When I finally let go , I screamed as my stomach dropped in rollercoaster fashion . It felt like the whole world was falling beneath me . I decided it was time for the prayer part of this activity . And then I began to swing in pendulum style from one pole to another . My legs were shaking and I had a white-knuckle grasp on the rope . The movement suddenly changed and sent me soaring in a wide circular formation . I forgot to mention that spinning is not my thing either !
Although I wanted to stop , I was urged to take a moment and relax , while letting go of first one hand on the rope , then the other . And
I reluctantly did , surprising myself by awkwardly leaning into something that resembled a backbend . As I contemplated the world from this pose , I was suddenly reminded of my childhood and the sense of pure joy and freedom that came from such simple pleasures like playing on the swings . Back on terra firma , with the group congratulating me on my accomplishment , I felt elated and proud . Yes , it was frightening and no , I ’ m not ready to audition for Cirque du Soleil , but it was also liberating to completely let go and exhilarate in the moment .
Celebrating life and one ’ s limitless potential is what it ’ s all about at Miraval , a well-known destination spa near Tucson , Arizona . This special retreat , nestled on 400 acres of idyllic land within the picturesque Santa Catalina Mountains , prides itself on its pioneering selfdiscovery and growth activities , not to mention its luxurious accommodations , deliciously healthy cuisine and state-of-the-art fitness and spa facilities . It ’ s a place to be inspired , rejuvenated , appreciated and motivated to focus on your emotional , spiritual and physical well-being .
There are many reasons why people come to Miraval . For some , it ’ s the need to get out of the rat race for some good old R & R , along with a hefty dose of pampering . Others view it as a chance to kick start a program of healthy habits . And then there are those who are eager to try new activities and challenge themselves in different ways . There are also individuals who come in search of help to deal with relationship or grief and loss issues .
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