The Living Land of Dominica

Each morning, we woke to the most breathtaking views, lush emerald mountains tumbling into the endless blue Caribbean Sea. Practicing together in that open-air space, surrounded by birdsong and ocean breeze, felt nothing short of magical. The island held us so gently. And the food, vibrant, nourishing, grown from the very soil beneath our feet, was a celebration in itself. Every meal was infused with care, culture, and the warmth of the incredible people who call this island home.

Our adventures wove us even more deeply into the spirit of Dominica. Hiking to Scott’s Head through Soufriere with Curmon was such a powerful way to witness where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, a breathtaking reminder of connection and contrast. Kayaking and snorkeling at Bubble Beach brought out our playful spirits, while floating above vibrant marine life felt like entering another world.

The herbal class opened our eyes to the abundance growing all around us, bush medicine, healing leaves, roots, and flowers that have supported generations. We didn’t just see the island; we learned from it.

The Perdu Hike with Savage and Colin was nothing short of extraordinary. We made our way through the lush rainforest as the rain poured down, the trail slick beneath our feet, laughter echoing through the trees as we slipped, steadied one another, and kept going. There was something deeply humbling about surrendering to the elements, no resisting, just moving together through the wild beauty of the island until we reached the homestead. Ending that adventure, soaking in the healing waters of Bambooze Sulfur Hot Springs was the perfect reward, warmth seeping into our muscles as the rainstorm became part of the memory.

Our time exploring the island continued to unfold like a series of sacred moments. Standing atop Morne Bruce, overlooking the colorful city of Roseau and the endless sea beyond. We wandered the lush, tropical paths of the Dominica Botanic Gardens, stood in awe before the twin cascades of Trafalgar Falls, and swam through the ethereal, cathedral-like waters of Titou Gorge, feeling both small and completely held by nature. Our visit to Ti Kwen Glo Cho Hot Springs offered deep restoration, steam rising, and bodies softening. And our local cuisine lunch at La Petiti Paradis with Chester was a joyful immersion into Dominican flavor and hospitality.

Snorkeling at Champagne Beach, watching the bubbles rise from the volcanic seabed as colorful fish danced around us, felt like the perfect metaphor for our journey: vibrant, alive, and a little bit magical.

One of the most heart-expanding moments of all was when we dropped off books to preschoolers in Soufriere, where we read a story together, shared some gentle yoga, and danced with pure joy. Afterward, we visited a local primary school and spent time with the 3rd graders, connecting, listening, and sharing smiles that needed no translation. It was such a meaningful exchange. The laughter, curiosity, and openness of the children reminded us that presence, play, and kindness are universal languages. In giving, we received so much in return.

With deep love and gratitude,

Lynne Norris

Peace through Yoga - Trip Leader