Is it okay to reinvent yourself?

It’s 444. Welcome!

My name’s Max. I’m a photographer and yoga teacher travelling South Asia. 444 is my monthly piece. A timestamp to reflect and connect with my heart. I hope reading this gives reassurance to listen to yours.

This recap breaks down recent events into something 4 me, 4 you, and 4 us. It will land in your inbox at 4:44 from wherever I am in the world. Today is the first email from my jungle home on the outskirts of Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka.

My backpack is empty. My things are on shelves.

Birds and insects orchestrate the soundscapes across the rice fields.

I’ve felt a warm community welcome as I begin life here. Spontaneous cricket matches. Locals kickstarting my moto. Neighbours sharing coconuts. Two dogs greet me at the front door.

It’s a place to amplify the small things. How focusing on them expands to the macro level. My ‘buy me a coffee‘ page exists for this. To help others in acts of love and kindness.

Find my ‘buy me a coffee’ page here.

Shoutout to this month’s supporter Zach!

4 you - Navigating a Forest

“We have the right as human beings to reinvent ourselves.” - Aviram, Co-Founder, Sadhana Forest

Weekly, volunteers gather in Sadhana Forest’s main hut for a Q&A with its Co-Founder Aviram. Discussions dive deep into the human psyche. A chance to uncover the mindset that makes radical dreams a reality.

Hearing this whilst immersed in Aviram’s vision burst perceptions of what’s possible. A 70 acre regenerated Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest on eroded, arid land in South India. Expansions into other parts of India, Kenya, Namibia, and Haiti. All from committing to a vision.

Read my Sadhana Forest volunteer experience here.

4 me - Beginnings

A year of movement, now it’s time to stay still. To create the conditions for seeds to grow.

I’ve felt a calling to live by the sea in Sri Lanka. To explore what photography and yoga looks like when they play a bigger role.

I’ve longed to do this.

It’s happening now.

It feels like ‘crunch time’.

Pressure from myself to seize this.

It’s week two.

No work yet.

Whatever outcome, I’m happy to be here having a crack.

4 us - Free Swings

This 444’s inspiration comes from Josh Lynott. His ‘create space to take free swings’ podcast episode encapsulates this chapter.

I’ve created a block to have a free swing at ocean living. To see what a commitment to photography and yoga looks like.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this 444. I hope it has given you a moment to check-in with your heart.

If you forwarded this to someone, they can subscribe here.

Catch you soon,

Max