I have just come back home from another remarkable stay at the ashram.
Before I went, I did not have any specific goals in mind, although I was certain that, as always, it would be a profoundly transformational stay. My intention was to give my best to process whatever came up and make the most of the connection with our community, the sacred spaces, the immersion in nature and the opportunity to meet Gde again. I was curious to see how I felt, in contrast with my previous stay, and open to continuing to process whatever needed to be processed.
For me, the experiences were beyond extraordinary. At times, I felt the strength of Mount Agung and rejoiced in the guidance that came up through synchronicities; at times, I felt extremely vulnerable and lost. At times, I could see magnificent, playful heavenly lights and blessings pouring into and healing my being and our circles. At times, I saw “monsters”. In just 18 days, I received so many beautiful insights, confirmations, openings, tests, and opportunities for growth! Pure Ratu Bagus magic!
Of all the many profound experiences, there are three that stand out for me.
The first one happened on the day I arrived. I knelt down next to Ratu’s chair in the corner of the TV room, and immediately, I felt an intense vortex of energy. Thank you, Ratu, it was such a reassuring way to start! It helped me realise I had become more sensitive since my last visit to the ashram. I went back to that place many times during my stay to pray, give thanks, and meditate. And every time, without fail, I could feel the intensity of the energy calm my mind, remove my self-doubt, and give me confidence.
The second experience was when I walked into Buruan. I felt the same intense energy I had felt by Ratu’s chair. There, it felt like a lively, dense energy field that had the power to calm my mind on its own, without any effort on my part. That evening, I had a very strong shake with happy laughter!
The third profound experience occurred during the full-moon fire ceremony, when I focused on Gde. There, I felt again the dense vortex of energy I had felt by Ratu’s chair the day I arrived. I just focused, surrendered, and thoroughly enjoyed the peace I received while surrounded by the devotional chanting.
Another great bonus was noticing the high level of physical energy I felt throughout the entire stay, which allowed me not only to complete the challenging shakes but also to engage in all sorts of activities at a pace that felt very natural and healthy for me.
And, of course, as always, I thoroughly enjoyed and filled up my “love cup” with many moments of great connection with fellow shakers, exchanging healing stories, washing up together, weeding, dancing, singing… And I enjoyed the wonderful meals prepared with so much love for all of us in Muncan and Buruan. I miss you all and can’t wait to see you again in December, when I get back to the ashram.
Thank you, God, for bringing Ratu Bagus, Gde, the community and the practice into my life more than 10 years ago. Together with the life and care of my parents, this is the biggest gift I have received in my life. Thank you for the extraordinary adventures, spiritual therapy, and transformation I have experienced. I keep going and look forward to the magical Ratu Bagus adventures that are yet to come!
With love, Maria Blanco
