River Cleansing

Celebration of spring in a magical river.

We usually write about systems change and social innovation. In this post, we’re offering a “timeline cleanse” - an invitation into immersion with the natural places that surround and nourish you.

Chirp of the birds and quirky bubbling of the water elevates the senses. The space is sacred, it’s magic drawn from the vitality of a river in the desert. The soil and trees working together to maintain a space for the water to flow, to be cleansed. Only 20 miles east of the sun-baked hustle of Phoenix, the animals work together to maintain this sacred retreat.

Open the door. Creosote laced air blends with the clouds above to intoxicate me into relaxation. I’m home. The land welcomes me with open arms. I’m grateful. Surrendered the day of tension into the arms of the Mother.

Walking the familiar path to the perfect spot, a sandy and rocky beach. I enter by walking through the magnificent aura of a giant mesquite mother tree - ancient and welcoming. She forms a portal into this paradise nested within a paradise.

Seeing the droppings of wild horses, gifts to the land. Honoring the presence of these magical creatures. Making my way towards the water, towards renewal. The river knows me well. I’ve shared many a prayer and practice with it. Flowing with breath, with the current, the cold water infused with warmth by the intensity of the desert sun.

The noble red mountain overlooking, watching, holding this sacred space.

Walking in, the water cold but not icy as spring comes early in the Sonoran desert.

The tiny instant of bodily resistance to the Cold becomes a refreshing surrender as the water welcomes me home into its healing embrace. It’s been a while since I came to her, but she understands, has learned to become patient with the frantic pace of modern humans, and welcomes full presence even if only for 30 minutes in between errands.

Getting deeper into the river, approaching the moment where I’ll dive in to the chilling flow. There’s a bit of apprehension, and the river reassures me that I don’t have to rush it, I can enjoy being half-immersed for as long as I want.

Letting the current move me, my arms and breath swirling in harmony with it.

Building energy and sharing it with the rushing river, blessing it as it cleanses me.

Settling, it’s time to dive in and complete my rejuvenation.

Deciding to flow into it, crouching slowly as the water embraces me, expecting the harsh clenching of the cold water but feeling only relief. I’m home.