Wisdom of Whale Sharks

•The RI.Perspective
Wisdom of Whale Sharks grows from the encounter between the work of Maja Mika and Karin Schulte and the unique ecosystem of Mafia Island, Tanzania, where the ocean is for both of them a place of observation, listening and learning.
Remote, little-visited and rooted in Swahili culture, Mafia Island is one of the few places in the world where, between October and March, whale sharks gather in considerable numbers in the shallow waters along the coast. From this vision, a retreat takes shape that weaves contemplative and somatic practices with a rare encounter with these animals in their natural habitat.
Yoga, pranayama and meditation prepare the body and mind for the experience at sea, while the cacao ceremony and the baobab ceremony open a ritual dimension rooted in heart-opening and connection with the land. From here, the programme moves toward the boat excursions and snorkelling with them, conducted according to a precise ethical protocol: no physical contact, entering the water only when conditions allow and without disturbing the animals, with the option to remain on board and observe.
Through daily practice and time spent at sea, the retreat invites participants to experience some of the qualities that Maja and Karin recognise in the whale sharks: trust, surrender, and the capacity to follow one’s own rhythm without forcing.

A retreat by @yogawithmajia