Around the Bluhmin’ Town

By

Judy Bluhm

Vortex. Swirling centers of energy conducive to healing, meditation and self-exploration. For the one-year anniversary of my husband’s death, I thought I would go to Sedona. Perhaps sitting in a vortex would inspire mental clarity, provide deep emotional healing and energize internal introspection. Well, that’s what the “Vortex Guide” claimed would happen. Oh, and provide a sense of harmony and peace.

Some folks on this “vortex journey” claimed to feel their skin tingling and a wave of joy sweep over them. Okay, I admit I didn’t feel any of that except I did appreciate the thrilling views from the Bell Rock Pathway Vortex. One woman cried and said she felt, “a sense of pure calm” and one man claimed he had a vision of his deceased wife. I didn’t experience anything close to that, although it was a quiet place to contemplate life and enjoy breathtaking scenery.

If you have lived in Arizona for any length of time, then you have probably been to Sedona on numerous occasions. We Arizonans seem to take every friend and relative who visits us to witness this spectacular place. Sedona’s red rocks were formed millions of years ago by sedimentary processes, when iron minerals in the layers of sandstone, deposited in a shallow sea, oxidized to create the colors. It’s an archeological wonderland.

Sedona is unique and also quirky. Fortune tellers, shamans and vortex guides are just part of the attraction. The views complete the “other worldly” vibe in Sedona. Check out the Chapel of the Holy Cross and find God. Go on a Pink Jeep Tour and discover adventure. Hike the trails and witness nature.

Many years ago, Doug and I took a Sedona helicopter ride. It was frightening. Our pilot wore a military style uniform and his badge said “Captain Wingwalker.” That was enough for me to protest and tell Doug I would sit it out. “Oh come on,” Doug chuckled, “let’s see some red rocks up close.” Sure, why not go on the single most dangerous ride imaginable. This should be fun. Sitting in the back seat, as we zipped in and out of canyons and hovered in front of rock formations, my screams were muffled by the noise of the chopper’s engine and two men (Doug and the pilot) enjoying a friendly conversation.

Sedona’s cultural stories date back over 1,000 years. The Sinagua people inhabited the area. They thrived until around 1400 AD, leaving behind significant landmarks, such as Montezuma Castle National Monument. Fast forward to 1902, when the town was named after Sedona Schnebly, the wife of the first postmaster, T.C. Schnebly. Rich with history, Sedona is a national treasure. Right in our own backyard.

While walking in Oak Creek Canyon, I brought a small container of Doug’s ashes to scatter. I sent ashes flying into a gentle breeze. The moment was surreal. I thought I heard Doug’s distinctive soft laughter, or maybe it was just the wind whispering through the trees.

Sedona. No place quite like it. No vortex required.

Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local realtor. Contact Judy at [email protected] or visit www.aroundthebluhmintown.com.