Unwind in Maui

(waves susurrating) Hi, this is Rosie and welcome to tonight's wind down located here in the tropical paradise of Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui. In this exercise, we'll be using sound and imagery to paint a relaxing scene in the mind and help prepare you for a night of restful sleep. (waves susurrating) Tonight we'll be exploring the lush landscape of Haleakala National Park, starting here along the coastal area of Kukui Bay, then moving through the verdant expanse of the Kipahulu Valley and finally ending at the Haleakala Crater to observe the dormant volcanic summit. But first, let's begin our evening with the brief relaxation exercise to settle the mind and the body. Let's take a few deep breaths in and out. Starting to relax any areas of tension in the body. (waves susurrating) As we settle in, we'll use the gentle rhythm of the waves to guide our body and mind to a place of relaxation and rest. (waves susurrating) Eyes can be left open to a soft, gentle gaze or closed. Body in a relaxed and resting position on our backs. Arms by the side, legs outwards. (waves susurrating) Now gently bringing the focus to the breath, finding the gentle rhythm of the breath and the body and seeing where you can feel the breath the most; perhaps in the nose, chest, or stomach. And just resting the attention there, (waves susurrating) feeling that natural rising and falling of the breath and body similar to the ocean tide, allowing the body to be carried by the breath, gently being rocked back and forth with each inhale and each exhale. (waves susurrating) As you lie here, relaxed in the body, gently extend your awareness to the world around you connecting to the space beyond your body. See what else you can sense about the environment. (waves susurrating) Here along the coast at Kukui Bay, the air is crisp and sweet. Dark cliff sides run along the water's edge, contrasting beautifully with the crashing cerulean waves. This is where we begin tonight's journey into the vast landscape of Haleakala. (waves susurrating) This shoreline and lowland area are known locally as Wao Kanaka meaning the realm of man where fishing, farming and activities of daily life historically took place. Here, warm gusts of wind stir up the ocean surface and rustle a nearby row of coconut palms. Their flexible trunks creak gently as they sway back and forth like a dance. In the distance, a handful of white and gray Hawaiian petrels take turns diving into the ocean to hunt for squid and fish. Their excited cause echo across the water's surface. (birds chirping) (waves susurrating) The famous Pipiwai Trail leads visitors away from the shoreline and up towards the forested area. The narrow dirt trail runs along an open stream which tumbles down from deep within the park. As the water turns through the landscape, it flows down into a series of pools within the Ohe'o...