This month’s focus is dedicated to a studio I used to practice at: Alchemy was a stunning space located in Camden Stables.
A group of us used to practice there at least three times a week. We’d walk from leafy green Primrose Hill via the bridge, past Roundhouse into the crazy pace of the market. London can be hectic: crowds, noise, buses, trains, cars, sirens: so much distraction. It’s a good environment to lose oneself.
In the depth of winter, it felt a hardship making our way there after a days work. We’d arrive frazzled and disjointed to climb the stairs to access Alchemy.
Beyond reception, the magic happened. A vast space, wooden floored, large sliding glass doors, dimly lit, candles lining the walls. Stunning and a sanctuary.
You’d feel your body instantly shift, to downgrade and settle from the buzz and chaos beyond.
90 minutes of movement became a moving meditation. The sound of the overground became a hum, the rush of the market below became irrelevant. Moments like this become so saturated with presence, the external dissolves, and we awaken.
Leaving the studio, returning to Primrose Hill was the most beautiful experience. It was the same journey yet it felt so contrasted, almost unrecognisable.
All the noise became music, the lights and bustle like stars. Nothing had changed. But our perspective had shifted. The world could rush, but we’d go slow.
Alchemy is this process where mundane becomes magic. A sprinkle of extra gets added to the ordinary. It’s that place where the dank, hectic journey becomes pure bliss.
You notice all you take for granted. The trees, leaves, birds, smiles, all the silent communication. The community. Unity.
The world can feel dark. There’s so much noise personally and globally. Alchemy is vital for ensuring we don’t fall too deeply into noise and distraction.
Sometimes distraction feels essential for survival. Our nervous system demands a relief, release. But if we feel we’re drowning in dark, we need Alchemy, whether 20 minutes or 20 seconds, the change will be visceral.
Yoga, falling in love, making love, dancing, eating delicious food, good company, music, walking, mindful movement, meditation, doing the things we adore: all of these are a form of alchemy, shifting the mundane to the miraculous.
This month we explore the process of finding Alchemy through movement, body and breath. The goal is to have no goal. It’s not about the destination: our attention is purely fixated on this journey.
Alchemy conjures stardust, gold, light, the blue of ocean. We’ve always said heaviness is necessary to appreciate light, to find gratitude. We want to embrace all facets of life, all emotions, but this month (in particular) if feels necessary to invite alchemy.
N.B. There was a moment this week during a radio interview focused on the current situation for civilians in Gaza; how it’s been impossible delivering crucial aid to the Palestinian people because of closed borders, lack of power, cut off communications. The presenter was closing the interview, but the interviewee unexpectedly asked for a moment longer. Just in case any of the Israeli hostages were listening: maybe they could hear a radio, possibly there was one in the room where they sit wondering if anyone remembered them. She said simply, "Stay strong. Stay healthy. We are coming for you." There was a short silence before the presenters could continue.
It’s important we keep close to things that light us up. Small gestures matter. Even when we feel helpless, our intention and dedication affects everything.
Play. Light. Love.
