asti ayuningtyas
2 min readSep 30, 2022

Riding: Meditation of the lifelong pilgrims

The river rush down its path as we ride alongside of it. The sound of the water crashing on the rocks feels so relaxing. As we speed on the long winding road, the warmth of morning sun, the wind touching my face and the smell of wet trees spoil my senses. I feel alive.

Growing up as a big introvert nerd who got sick easily, I mostly spent time at home. Going out on adventures wasn’t my cup of tea. I find spending my alone time reading books or imagining fake scenarios in my head as a great escape. So, this riding for quite long journey (long, for me) is a new experience that is different than what I thought it would be. I was preparing for a tiring and long trip so I was about to kill the time with all kind of entertainment from my phone. But, instead of killing time, feeling the time as we go on the road is much more fulfilling.

Paying attention only to a few meters ahead of us while activating all senses to enjoy surrounding is like a meditation to me. And I know for sure, these riders are here not for the destination of our trips. They are the pilgrims of life. The ones savour every bit of the journey. Body aches, eyebags and headache from lack of rest are the spices to add to the sweetness of meeting friends and greeting life on the road.

asti ayuningtyas

A working mom/product manager hustling to build loveable products at work and perfect pancakes at home. Interested in my book? https://bit.ly/3CNfDmT