I’m new here. This is my first Wanderlust, and as someone also new to yoga, I’ve had quite the baptism. Overall it’s been educational, exhilarating, and inspirational, though it would have been useful to have had a little help on how to make the most of my time here.
Because I know I’m not alone, I’ve come up with some tips to make sure that you can be a better Wanderlust newbie than I was.
1. Understand that it’s not all about the yoga.
Sure, yoga is a big, nay, HUGE part of Wanderlust, but it’s about so much more. Think music, wellness, art, food, hikes, runs, mountain bike rides, lectures, meditation, and more than a few parties. As the founders aptly put it, it’s about recreating that childlike feeling of optimism. Channeling your inner child may be something you find works best in an acro class, playing outside, or dancing to a DJ under the stars.
2. Let go.
Nobody cares. This was my big a-ha moment. Nobody cares how rad (or unrad) you are at inversions, what you’re wearing, how old you are, or what you do in the real world. So get over yourself. By that I mean get over your own insecurities and stop worrying. Or, in my case, overthinking. Wanderlust is a surprisingly inclusive place. And once you let go, you’ll enjoy it that much more.
3. Listen to your body.
Certainly this pertains to any yoga workshop you’re taking. Despite wanting to keep up with the flexible people, I can’t go there because it doesn’t feel good. When my body talks, I’m learning that it’s in my best interest to not ignore it. Let that be a lesson to you. But this goes beyond Wanderlust’s many workshop offerings. Squaw Valley is at elevation – 6,200 feet to be precise. You may feel that. It’s ok to not feel as awesome as you do at sea level. Drink more water, breathe, and listen.
4. Try new things.
This is a corollary to #2. Once you let go of your fears, it’s easier (notice I didn’t say easy) to take the risk of trying something new. A Wanderlust instructor put it aptly.
“Don’t be afraid to say yes.”
As scary as it seems, good things can happen when you stop saying no.
After all, it’s how I got to Wanderlust.
5. Have fun
This is a no-brainer, yes, but one that bears repeating. Finding that childlike joy can require creativity when your arms are burning from repeated chaturangas (I speak from experience), or you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed after a day of sessions that challenge the mind and body.
Step back and take time to absorb the yoga, the music, the art, the people, and most of all, the energy.
And remember: Smile.
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Jenn is a marketing consultant to the travel, recreation, & hospitality industries in real life, but her true passions involve playing outside as much as possible. She lives at Lake Tahoe in order to do just that. When she’s not skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or running after her dog while enjoying the majesty of the Sierra, she’s thinking about them and planning her next adventure.