Lessons from my Grandmother
My grandmother was a world traveler. In her 101 years of living on this planet she traveled to over 40 countries! As a child, I remember all the unique trinkets and crafts she brought back from her adventures abroad. I also remember how interesting and well-traveled she always seemed. She truly was a woman of the world.
Grandma and Grandpa passed down their wanderlust to our whole family. I grew up peeking through a beautiful window into the vastness of this world. When I was 16, Grandma arranged a special trip just for her and I. She brought me to London to indulge my theater obsession by going to see some West End Musicals. I found myself surprised and delighted with all the nuanced differences between British and American culture; a country I mistakenly thought would be so similar to mine. Curious and intrigued, I developed a taste for experiencing new places, people, and experiences.
I learned from early on that traveling is not just about having a fun time, or going on an adventure. It’s a powerful perspective shift that can have lasting effects on a person’s body, mind and spirit. It can be life changing.
I vowed to always make travel a top priority in my life, even when resources were limited. I started working at a cafe when I was 15 to save up for a summer program in NYC. At 21, I used the car insurance payout on my totaled car to travel to circus school in Bristol, England. (Yes, there’s a theme here. Learning while traveling is my jam.) In fact, this December, I’m diving into a week-long Spanish Immersion course in Mexico City. It’s my perfect combo: exploring a new place while staying engaged through learning.
I have a theory as to why traveling is so powerful for personal growth. It’s because traveling is actually a disruptor. You’re taken out of your routines and comfortable surroundings and thrown into a daily experience of novelty and unexpected paths. Travel stretches you in new, unpredictable ways. Yes, this can sometimes be scary, which is why it can be so helpful to set up a safe container on your travels. A place where you know your needs will be taken care of, and you’ll have like-minded people to share the experience with.
Which is why I felt so aligned to the idea of starting up an aerial retreat, back in 2017 when we created our first retreat offering. I found that aerial retreats are not just about going to a beautiful place and pressing the reset button (although that’s definitely part of it). They’re an opportunity to discover new facets of yourself and expand your worldview. Aerial retreats aren’t just getaways; they’re gateways to personal growth and expanding your global community.I’ll forever remain thankful to what I learned from my Grandmother, and the rest of my travel-happy family. (Fun side note: my brother is currently getting his PHD in Slavic studies and about to spend a year in Kazakhstan) I’m thrilled that I have found a way to share this love of travel to aerialists in my community who feel a similar passion.
Aerialist Lexii Grim | Photo Marie Lu Vinh
👀 Looking for a unique travel opportunity while you develop your aerial skills & artistry? Come join us at Casa Chango this Nov / Dec.
Casa Chango is is an eco chic artist retreat center nestled in the tropical forest. Eat healthy, home cooked Mexican food. Attend aerial workshops from Sarah and Rain in a stunning open air circus gym with a view. And experience the beauty that Puerto Escondido has to offer.
The Deets: Aerial Escapades At Casa Chango
Watch a short video about Casa Chango
Silks and Sling – All levels welcome (group structure)
Dates:
November 30 – Dec 7, 2024 – Only 2 spots left!
December 7-14, 2024 – Only 2 spots left!
“A unique opportunity to learn from some of the best instructors in the aerial world and make new friends from all over the world in a gorgeous location. I just loved it!” Daniela Mileva, Austria – Paper Doll Retreats
