In the 1950s, Jack Kerouac repopularized Buddhism in the West. Since then, widespread ideas about enlightenment have circulated through generations of Americans frustrated by materialism.
For many, there's this idea that seeking transcendence is a long and sometimes laborious journey to be taken within oneself. I won't claim to be enlightened or to know what it takes to get there, but every third Saturday at The Hub in LA I get the closest taste of what I imagine it would be like.
A group of anywhere between five to forty people gather at night in a yoga studio situated in between Venice and Santa Monica. The evening always begins with introductions; there's always a good mix of reluctant first-timers and committed veterans. Scott, the leader, encourages a friendly and open atmosphere. "Share something about yourself," he says, "Anything." It feels like summer camp.
The lights are lowered and you begin to breathe. In and out, in and out. It's the simplest most essential act, but it makes you aware of how you're operating. Everyone stretches and moves at their own pace. It's a designated time for you to lengthen out the back you've been slouching or shut the eyes that have been glaring at a screen for eight too many hours.
The teacher walks around the room with incense. Sounds of wind chimes and wafts of lavender produce a feeling of calmness. Just as you relax, the beats begin. People naturally move with the pace of the music as it progresses. Before you know it, you're dancing blissfully unconcerned with how your movements appear to others. It's how fun should always be: organic, rejuvenating and safe.
The excitement builds in the room as strobe lights flicker on and glow sticks are thrown into the circle for the taking. Everyone moves how they please, no one thinks.
Just as you're beginning to break a sweat the beats fade and the sound of gongs vibrating through the air brings you back into a state of tranquility. This time even more quieted after the release of adrenaline. You lay still, high on life and happier than the best cocktail has ever made you.
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