Wanderlust 108 Chicago

We arrived early to check in and drop off our bags, and already the parking at Saint Paul Woods was filling up. It seemed like we walked a mile just to get to the event, but no one seemed to mind. We had some time to check out the vendor tents, but first, a photo with the Wanderlust sign.

A hilarious yoga teacher soon led everyone in a stretch session before we set off for our rainy 5K run.

The run took us through the lush woods, and a brass band greeted us at the finish.

After the run I went back to the vendors I liked to make my purchases. I bought a beautifully designed tank from Belabela and Conscious Coconut oil. The owner of Belabela told us that each of her designs has a story, and she is happy to share those tales with anyone who asks. I don’t usually spend $40 on a tank, but I fell in love with her work — It was difficult to choose just one tank. I went with a globe print with hello in different languages.

I also supported Conscious Coconut at its launch. It’s an organic, fair trade product, and for every tube of coconut oil sold, a meal is provided for a child in need. The owner told us she sources all ingredients herself and offered us ways to use it.

Besides that, we walked around to get some samples and swag. A Wanderlust headband was included with our registration. Kashi handed out cereal samples and gave out reusable bags. The Yoga Alliance gave out orange bracelets, and Athleta had hairties and tattoos.

Sadly, the rain only got worse and the temperature dropped throughout the morning, and the ground was just too wet for me to want to put my mat on it. I knew the mat would get too slippery, so we stuck around to watch the dance party and acro yoga. We also tried one of the food trucks, 5411 Empanadas, which served a delicious spinach and cheese empanada.

Overall, the mindful triathlon was a morning well spent with an amazing yoga community.