India (6/6) - School of life

Travelling the world, moving house, changing job, starting a new hobby, chatting with the postman, saying hello to your neighbour… all contribute to connect with other human beings. Every day. Whether you share a cultural background, common interests, similar views on the world or belong to the same social class. You either cross path briefly or end up building long-lasting relationships with these people. I met Sandrine in Paris not long after starting Yoga in 2002, and despite my move to Australia in 2007, we stayed in touch. Email, Facebook, it is easy these days when you make the effort. I would also attend her classes or workshops when visiting in France. Time has passed and Sandrine now lives in India in Kerala with her husband Shahul and their two beautiful and cheeky little girls Mia and Vidya. And we are still in touch! In fact, Sandrine was the reason why I chose to explore South India first. In 2010, Sandrine & Shahul have created Tranquilandia – “terre de tranquillité” or “land of peace” – a 5 hectares property where they welcome citizens of the world. Tranquilandia is a beautiful place to pause and reconnect with nature and the simplicity of life. I spent five days there and didn’t want to leave! But Tranquilandia has much bigger ambitions… to create a School of Life. The concept stems from a few simple observations. The current educational system is inadequate irrespective of the country of origin. There is a very high demand on kids from a very young age while individual skills, abilities and difficulties are disregarded. And overall, it stems from a high skepticism towards the end result. To empower children to live their life as individuals, free thinkers and compassionate human beings. To be in touch with their natural environment and value a simpler life. To lead the way to a path of inner-peace and happiness. Sandrine & Shahul want to offer children the opportunity to blossom and they have already started with a few initiatives. Two years ago the “Kids Corner” was born, a center for children to enjoy the company of each other, play, learn and explore, but mainly to be themselves while discovering life. They also host “Nature Camps” with children of different ages. You can see them in action on the Tranquilandia website, there are lots of very cute photos and inspiring moments.

TIP #6: If Sandrine & Shahul’s project doesn’t leave you indifferent, know that you can contribute to it in many ways: a modest donation to buy supplies for the Kids Corner, you can visit Tranquilandia for a holiday to relax and enjoy rural life or to offer some of your skills… The number of possibilities is only limited to the extent of your imagination! More info here.