Spring Equinox 2012 - Chichen Itza

On March 20 of this important year of 2012, I had the opportunity to participate in the Mayan Celebration of the Equinox at Chichen itza, in the state of Yucatan, Mexico.  We did a fair bit of research about the celebration and how it relates to the Mayan calendar which enhanced the experience and helped us plan.  

 Our first stop was the Grutas de Balankanche, about 6 km from Chichen.  These caves were only discovered in 1959, filled with Mayan artifacts, which are still in place.  It's a large cave - about 1/2 mile deep - and a 15 minute hike inside the earth. There are numerous large caves and cenotes (underground pools) and in the largest chamber stands the "Arbol de Ceiba" referred to as the sacred tree inside the earth.  It was formed when a stalactite and stalagmite merged to form an auspicious column and altar.  It's at least 30 feet tall and 8 feet around with a secondary pillar on one side.  This tree of life is surrounded by pottery relics with the image of Tlaloc - the god of rain (and dripping rainwater, I guess).  The space holds the energy of unity - of above and below uniting in one.  Another reminder that separateness is an illusion and unity is truth. 

As we emerged from the cave, we saw a bright bright blue MOT MOT - the official bluebird of happiness, Mexican style.  I think it was definitely a good omen.

 We then continued to on to the ruins, about a 2 hour drive from our hut at Maya Tulum.   It was estimated that 7000 people were at the ruins for the celebration which can be experienced for a four day window around the Spring Equinox.  Needless to say, it was quite the scene.  Lots of vendors, but we made our way through to the ball court and continued on to the cenote sagrada.  The Mayans used this sacred underground pool for human sacrifice and in the early 20 th century it was dredged and many bones as well as loads of gold and precious stones were removed from the site.  We sat for a few moments of meditation, honoring those who have given and taken lives in the search for knowing Dios.  Around 4:00, we headed for the main pyramid to watch the descent of the feathered serpent, Kulkulkan.  The sun struck the first step, casting a shadow along the diagonal rise of the pyramid.  About every 5 minutes, another step joins in the journey until 35 minutes later, the shadow of the body descends the final step and joins the stone serpent head at the base of the pyramid, completing the image.  

 Every type of person was present - Japanese, Aussies, Americans, Mexicans - young and old.  Some people were praying - others were chanting - some were barely paying attention and others were completely immersed in the experience.  For me, I was moved by the multitude of peoples that were drawn together in a shared spiritual experience, each bringing their own expectations, hopes, dreams, and fun to the day.  No alcohol is allowed on the sacred site - so although I expect many were "altered", there were no beerstands or mariachi bands.  One guy - a gringo - found his way to the top and held the crowds cheering for about 10 minutes before the policia climbed up after him and probably charged him a large fine!  The only other two active participants, besides Kulkulkan - were a large iguana that traversed the pyramid sides, and a swooping vulture that gave a fine aerial show for the crowd.  As the serpent's body and head united, the crowd began to disperse.  There was no grand moment, just a simple recognition of time passing and the completion of the seasonal event of balancing dark and light.  

 Such an honor to be in Mayan country during this important year of 2012.  The end of the world?  The Mayans clarify that it is more about a change of consciousness toward the energy of love and compassion.  That all sounds good to me.

Sarah and I doing Kaleswara Mudra at Chichen Itza.  

The ruins hold the energy of the heart chakra.