We visited several falls on our NorCal trip and I would even rate this one higher than Burney Falls. The flow isn't very forceful, but the lush, mossy backdrop to me is special. The city of Dunsmuir has been trying to negotiate with the Saint Germain Foundation to allow for public access to the falls, but until that gets settled, getting to the falls means TRESPASSING. People are currently discouraged from going there because you have to walk along train tracks. A woman was injured a few years ago. We stayed within the Shasta Retreat community just so we could walk to the falls and not have to worry about where to park (also because it was one of the nicer places to stay in the area). The waterfalls are simply one of the most gorgeous falls I've ever seen and it's a mixed blessing that access is restricted. When we were there, we were the only people at the falls. However, we saw some trash and other unfortunate evidence of previous visitors. The walk along the tracks isn't long or difficult since it's flat. You walk on the railroad ties whenever possible (staying on the river side). But a train did pass us when we were walking back. It wasn't loud but I kept my ears pricked up and there was space for us to stand out of the way. It felt like forever for the train to pass us and when the train conductors saw us, they belatedly blasted the horn. I don't know what we would've done if we were on a bridge when the train came. We ran past sections that didn't have a lot of space on the side. Also, the tracks don't run completely straight the whole way. There ARE some bends, so this increases the danger. This is not a trek for little kids or people with significant disabilities! The city is apparently trying diligently to get a public trail established and they have a strong incentive to do so with the tourist dollars such access would bring, so you may want to wait a few years for that to happen. If not, use common sense, be discreet and respectful of the local residents, and keep your eyes peeled and ears tuned for trains. read more

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Pretty easy hike. Took less time than I thought, as we went to Hedge Creek and crossed the freezing river. So many beautiful things to see.

This waterfall is pretty easy to get too. Park along the road on scarlet/n Dunsmuir ave. There's a motel Cave Springs about a block away from the entrance. Do not park at Shasta Retreat. Walk past the entrance and the road will fork when you make it to the bottom. Make sure you take a right onto Cave Ave. Once you past the bridge there will train tracks. Take a right on the tracks. The tracks will take you to the waterfall. It's about a 30 minute walk on these tracks maybe less if you want faster. The tracks are active so be alert for trains. I was there on the weekend and there were no trains because of maintenance. We started around 9ish AM so there was no one on the tracks except for the workers that we passed by. The falls are about 50 feet before the bridge on the right. We actually missed because the trees were block the falls. If you crossed the train bridge then you went to far. There should be a huge rock before the bridge. The huge rock marks a trail by the bridge. Follow the trail to the bottom of the falls. We literally had 30 mins of the falls to ourselves and it was magical. Probably longer if we would of stay but we had to go because we were going to other falls in the area. On our way back, we started seeing other hikers and families with their kids and dogs. So glad we went early and got to it before anyone else. If anyone goes to this fall, just rememer to be careful because of the trains. There have been people who got hurt on this path. Hopefully in the future, they make a legit trail for people to get to this fall. read more

This will forever be known as the Forbidden Hike during our time in Shasta! It's a really easy walk to the falls but is definitely dangerous as you do need to walk either on or along the train tracks. We went a few days after it had snowed and it was fine. The snow helped a little bit with all the rocks that are placed by the tracks. Definitely try to get to the falls at a brisk pace. I think we heard two trains pass us during our time at the falls but we never had to dodge one. Read "Maranda C"'s review for a great detailed review on on to get to the falls. We Google Mapped Scarlet Way and Dunsmuir and parked south on Dunsmuir in the parking lot of an abandoned shop. Shady, I know. Before we left, there was a cop car that passed us but it didn't stop (thankfully). The entrance is in a private residential neighborhood with signs that say "No Access to Mossbrae Falls". We even got a few stink-eyes from some residents while walking in. The falls themselves are 100% worth the trip and are photo and Instagram-worthy! Not too epic but definitely fall within the hidden-jewel category. read more

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Amazing!! I know access is "restricted" but you honestly wouldn't know, we passed about 15 other groups of people while on the railroad tracks early Monday afternoon. Walk through Shasta retreat, cross over the bridge that crosses the river then turn right and start walking down the tracks. It's about 1 3/4 of a mile till you get to the falls, there will be a large rusty old bridge and that's when you've made it. Turn right down the trails before the bridge and Mossbrae falls starts coming into view. We sat for a little while and enjoyed the falls and our dog walked around through the shallower water. Make sure you wear good shoes as you'll be walking on the rocky railroad tracks for most of the time and bring a good camera!! read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Hiking Near Me

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Short hike, lots of cool things to see along the way, and even more adventures to be had! We parked right off the freeway by the Hedge Creek Falls Trailhead. From there Mossbrae falls was about half a mile, but we had to cross the river to get to the other side. There may have been a bridge but we didn't see it. If you're in the area, definitely check this place out. You won't regret it! read more

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So I'm making this review to make it easier to get to the fall so start at the address yelp gives you follow the trail all the way down until to the end u til you hit a river. Cross the river. Keep in mind the stream is about knee high. Once you cross the river there will be a trail, stay on the trail until u reach the railroad tracks. Once you have reached the railroad tracks make a right go straight until you see a bridge. Do NOT cross the bridge. Right before the bridge there should a trail to the right. Go down the trail and you should have reached the fall. The trail is fairly easy. read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Hiking Near Me

As the past reviewers have stated, you will need to be VERY careful when hiking on the tracks. Also, parking is tricky since it is in a private road. But it is sooo worth the parking and the hiking. * If you hike on a hot day, bring inner tubes and float back down to your parking spot. read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Hiking Near Me

In order to reach the falls, you must walk (about a mile) along active train tracks (vary narrow in parts I might add....yikes). There is danger involved....be careful. Luckily, we did not encounter any moving trains, but we were on constant watch for them. Once you get to the bridge, the falls are just below you to the right. We enjoyed the entire experience without running into a soul. It was fantastic! Finding the falls is an adventure in itself that will leave you starving. Luckily, there is an amazing restaurant in town, Yaks. read more

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I've been to plenty of water falls but this one is my favorite so far! It was a bit hard to find at first, I had to stop a couple of times and get help from the locals but they were all more then willing to help read more

So worth the walk! If you bring doggies you might want to bring booties so the rocks along the train tracks don't cut up their paws or burn. read more

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As good as it gets. Feels like something you'd see in Hawaii pretty easy to get to you.... Awesome place if you're in the area and you have a couple hours to kill definitely worth it I go every week. read more

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Difficult to access but well worth the walk. Parking above the resort and walking across the bridge to the tracks, it's not a long walk. Be mindful of trains. They're sometimes difficult to hear. read more

I wish I could rate 100 stars this place was absolutely breathtaking definitely follow the directions that other yelp reviews post when you walk along the train tracks it does take a while but eventually you will get there it's a little hard to find but once you have found it it seems easy pictures do not do this place justice it is a truly magical place that I hope eventually they open up a pathway to it is the best waterfall in Mount Shasta read more

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So I just had to ignore the restrictedness and go for it! the falls are well worth it. There were no trains when i walked thru. but there is PLENTY of room to avoid getting hit I promise. seriously pay attention and look put for the trains and u should be good. The waterfalls were AMAZING read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Hiking Near Me

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Well worth the hike in, yes it's marked private property but be respectful going through The Retreats property and be careful walking along the tracks and you will be fine. One word of cation if it's hot and you have your four legged friend be sure they have boots on or you will have pad issues:( Trust me our running dog an Aussie had pad issues due to the hot rocks along the RR tracks read more

Well worth the hike. One of Northern California's hidden treasures the Mossbrae Falls is a must see if you are in the Dunsmuir area or just passing threw. Just a short hike down the railroad tracks and you will find one of mother nature's hidden gems. Also a great place for photos. Check out mine from the visit. Also, be sure to wear shoes because you will be walking for a while. But soooooo worth it!! read more

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This place is a must-visit and a hidden gem! We went on a Friday afternoon and encountered one person at the falls and a few people heading towards there as we were heading back. It's a really private and quiet place. Like other reviewers have mentioned, the falls are closed off due to someone getting hit by a train. There are "No Trespassing" signs and supposedly you'll be fined for walking down the train tracks. However, we successfully made the trek to the falls without being stopped by anyone. Finding the entrance to the trailhead was a bit tricky since searching "Mossbrae Falls" on Google Maps will require you to go through a forest (which you can't even go through due to all the shrubbery and no clear path). You want to drive down Dunsmuir Ave to the intersection of Scarlet Way and Dunsmuir Ave. This is where you'll find Shasta Retreat (picture posted) which is the entrance to a private residential area. Find parking outside of Shasta Retreat as you might get a ticket for parking in this area. We found parking a bit down south of Dunsmuir Ave on the side of the road. Walk through the archway that says "Shasta Retreat" and turn right when you get to the bottom of the hill. You'll cross a small bridge that is over the Sacramento River and turn right towards the railroad tracks. Follow the railroad tracks upstream the river for a bit over 1 mile (~20 min. walk). At every 1/4 of a mile, you'll see a sign on the right side of the tracks (closer to the river) that tells you how many miles you've walked. When you see the 3/4 mile sign, you'll know you're close. Once you see the bridge, do not cross, and turn right into the shrubbery and follow the fall's sounds down the hill. Enjoy nature in all its glory! Mossbrae Falls is really majestic. Enjoy how peaceful and serene it is there. Sit, relax, and take in all the beauty. Tips: -Look out for trains coming on both sides -Bring comfy closed-toe shoes, you'll be walking on rocks! -Walk on the railroad ties to avoid walking on rocks, but be careful to get out of the way if you see a train (we didn't encounter any) -Do NOT bring children! (For obvious reasons such as the risk of trains and the sharp rocks) -Bring a sunhat or umbrella as there's barely any shade during the 1+ mile walk. It gets hot in the summer so make sure to slather on sunscreen as well. -Bring a camera to take pictures of the majestic falls! -Total time from walking from the Shasta Retreat entrance to the falls and back is ~1 hour. read more

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Several locals recommended against this place because we had our kids (11 and 13) and it involves walking alongside railroad tracks, but so glad we went anyway. :-) it was totally worth it. The walk was about 30 min (make sure to read the helpful reviews others have already posted on landmarks to watch for). Being July, the hike was hot (so make sure you take water). Take a towel and wear water shoes because if you want to climb behind the falls, you'll need 'em. The water is super cold and the currents are very strong in places, so be careful if you have kids. But so glad we braved it...when you make the crossing...wow! Great photo opp. So tranquil and cool...perfect after the hot hike in. read more

BEWARE! Despite the single tracks, trains go in BOTH directions. Just because you saw two trains in a row going southbound does not mean that there are no northbound trains. This very assumption almost got me killed here one beautiful spring morning 20 years ago. When the river is roaring with spring runoff, you might hear that train coming from right around the bend. Just be cautious, and keep an eye on kids and others who are easily distracted. With that said, Mossbrae Falls is beautiful and well worth the short hike. If you pack ina picnic lunch, be sure to pack out your trash. Leave no trace, please. read more

Nearly had a heart attack trying to get to this location. Ok, I'm exaggerating, but it was pretty scary walking alongside the tracks. One train passed by as we were heading towards one of the bends so that was quite scary and thrilling. Another passed as we were heading back from the falls...Thankfully the trek there wasn't too long. It was about a mile walk following the trails and we followed the directions in Maranda C's review and found the waterfall pretty easily. The waterfall was beautiful and I think it was definitely worth going there but because it was secluded and empty, it felt a bit eerie. For the safe side, I would recommend walking on the right side even though it is a bit rocky, this way you can avoid feeling uneasy about a train potentially coming by if you're on the railroad ties. Still, since the train roars pretty loudly, this shouldn't be too much of a problem. read more

The falls and the only access to them have been closed by the City of Dunsmuir and Union Pacific Railroad due to no safe public access. The only access is by tresspassing on private property and walking 3/4 mile on active Amtrak/Union Pacific train tracks with at times no clearance, meaning no place to go to avoid getting hit by a train. In fact, a woman was hit by a train and suffered major head injuries because of this in 2011. So if there is anyone in the world who would care if you died, don't risk this illegal and dangerous activity. Also avoid the negative and disruptive impact your illegally parked car would have on this private retreat community. The City is trying to build safe access to the falls, so put the falls on your bucket list and visit them later when there is safe, legal access. Meanwhile, visit the lovely Hedge Creek falls just 3 minutes up the road: http://www.yelp.com/biz/hedge-creek-falls-dunsmuir-2?utm_source=ashare&ref=yelp-android Here is the City's Closed notice: http://dunsmuir.com/hikes-waterfalls/ Article about the injured woman and the illegal access in a major newspaper: "In November 2011, a woman hiking along the tracks to the falls with her husband and two children was struck by a train and suffered major head injuries." Source: http://www.sacbee.com/entertainment/living/travel/article2610105.html#storylink=cpy read more

Nothing can be written or picture posted that will do justice to this place. It is truly a sight to behold and nothing can describe that peaceful feeling you get listening to the water fall with your feet in the water and the cool mist blowing on your face. We were there 06/14/2019. The hike is pretty much on flat land under the sun and 100+ degree temps on very rough floor that's really hard on the feet, but a good pair of hiking boots, hat and bottle of ice cold water made it a lot easier. We stayed at the Cave Springs Resort which is next door to the Shasta Retreat so we didn't have to worry about parking. If you go there, you should go for two or three days so you have time to visit the Shasta Lake Cavern and Burney Falls which are also very impressive and a must see. read more

Mossbrae Falls is by far one of my favorite places I've recently visited. Came here on a cold winter day and honestly I don't think you can go wrong coming to this place any time of the year. I walked into the neighborhood and ran into a local at the narrow bridge that leads to the tracks. I decided to talk to her and she immediately knew I wasn't a local. I've read that you can get a ticket for trespassing so I played it off as if I was just walking through. After a short talk about Otters in the river to my surprise she actually recommended that I visit the falls. The locals here are incredibly nice and I'm sure that as long as you respect the area that they live in you'd have no problems other than with whomever patrols the tracks and cites you. I didn't see anybody though so I don't really think the trespassing thing is a big issue. After the single lane bridge you immediately turn right onto the tracks. People say it's a mile+ walk but I noticed little markers on the side which seemed to be quarter mile markers. Shortly after seeing a 3/4 marker you reach a railroad bridge and to the right of that bridge through the trees is the falls. It's not a far walk at all and it's relatively easy for anyone to do. I only planned on staying an hour or an hour and a half at most but got caught in the ambience and beauty of the falls that I ended up staying over 2.5 hours. I highly recommend everyone to visit this place. read more

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Long walk was worth it. I wrote some instructions on how to get there. Check out my blog oregonblogger.com I agree with the other comments. Ignore the trespassing signs You wont get in trouble. Have fun read more

Cool falls. I was pretty stressed out getting there because of the active train tracks but luckily we didn't run into any. You will be walking on/along the track for exactly 1.2mi to get there. Some areas don't have a good place to get away from an on coming train so I would hurry across to a safer area. Actually I would try to spend as little time as possible on the tracks just to be safe so keep up a good pace. It wasn't a hard hike but the train track gravel is extremely tough on the feet. The falls are right before the train bridge, pretty hard to miss. Very pretty but I guess go on your own risk because I've been reading that you could get cited trespassing but I haven't heard of anyone getting caught. I think they have just been posting all these signs and threats just to scare people. read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Shot of the route. 1.2mi to the falls. - Hiking Near Me

Why do I give Mossbrae four stars given how spectacular it is? And it is spectacular, no doubt about that. Lots of fun too if you can spot the Ouzels (American Dippers) bobbing in and out of the water with their funny little dance. Mossbrae isn't a five-star spot mainly because of the "hike" in. It's not a long hike or a difficult one, but the trains DO run on those tracks and in the wrong spot you pretty much will have to scurry down a gravel slope to get out of their way. I'd be wary taking kids with me for that reason. There's also no shade at all on the way, so make sure to protect the back of your neck from the sun. Nice opportunity to make sun tea, though. Mossbrae is really beautiful. It can get pretty crowded for its size, though. It's probably one of the must-see waterfalls in south Siskiyou County. Careful drinking the water, though, as waste from at least one town enters upstream. read more

Despite the treacherous hike, speeding trains and dangerous terrain, this hidden jewel is definitely worth a visit. Hidden up the UP railroad right before the old wooden bridge lies the small sanctuary of Mossbrae Falls. As other pathfinders before me has pointed out, the path is quite dangerous (should you have young ones) and do not park in Shasta resort. What you can do is actually park within the city of Dunsmuir and hide your car there, then treck up the railroad through the bridge located up Dunsmuir Ave, but just note that you cannot park in the gravel area as it's now been blocked off. Once you start on the path just be careful not to walk on the train track, but there are definitely enough room on the right hand side of the track to walk upon without falling off the side into the river. Lastly, be sure to have good hiking shoes, the rocks are quite dangerously sharp without the proper footwear, and can cut into your shoes should you not have a solid sole. Nonetheless, we survived, and definitely enjoyed the scenic view of the falls =] read more

Went there just last weekend! Its a scene straight out of Lord of the rings! What a beautiful waterfall! The hike to that point is great too- walking along the tracks in the meadows where a river stream passes along and you hear the sound of the waterfalls all thru! Bliss!!! There aint no designated parking and you have to take a chance parking the car somewhere in Shasta retreat but the scenery is even worth getting a ticket :) If you absolutely want your car to be safe, you may park somewhere up before you get into the retreat, but don't miss out on these waterfalls if you are in the area. It would be a photographers dream and a common mans delight to witness such a beautiful sight! Loved it!!! read more

Absolutely SPECTACULAR waterfalls. A very easy and nice 30 min walk along the Western Pacific Railroad. Fantastic for swimming if you like cold water and a great place for a picnic. Cell reception out there as well in case of any problems. A must do if you are in the Shasta Lake area and looking for something else to see and do besides the lake. read more

This waterfall is by far the prettiest one I've ever seen! I was a little hesitant on going because of the reviews. Not scary at all! Very short walk!! You have to check it out!!! read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR:) - Hiking Near Me

Definitely 5 stars if you are down for a bit of risk taking...First of all, the trail is on private property. I entered through hedge creek falls and ducked under the fence where it very clearly states "private property of the Saint Germain Foundation" see photo. Trespassers will be prosecuted? Are they really going to sue me for wanting to take a lovely hike to a gorgeous waterfall in the woods, which was there, as well as the trail, before this religious group bought the property and claimed it as their own religious sanctuary. Pleeeease! I am so glad I bypassed that, because the waterfall was well worth it. I can not believe Saint Germain Foundation asks people not to hike here so they can "express their spiritual practice in private" I could have hiked through there without disturbing a buddhist monk meditating in the middle of the trail! There was no one or anything to disturb, I only saw two other hikers doing nothing wrong except enjoying a lovely hike. Please- take your religion out of it- this should be a sanctuary for everyone! PS. Only other risk is the train tracks- be smart and aware and you will be fine! read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Hiking Near Me

A fairly short, fun,& beautiful hike to a falls running over a moss-covered canyon wall. Go check out the falls in Google Images. The hike itself is along an active railroad bed. It's safest to walk to one side or another on the rail bed; however, the rocks can make the going difficult. It's easiest to just walk on the wooden tracks. You'll have to be able to get off to the side quickly when a train comes, though. The falls themselves are just before you hit the train bridge over the Sacramento River. read more

Hidden gem indeed! Please do your research. I suggest to start early so it's less people. For us, we parked at the lot for Hedge Creek Falls. Completed the short trail down to the river (about 10 min). Cross it (water level mid-thigh for me). Walk up a dirt path, turn right. As you're walking beside the railroad track (7 min.) keep ears open for incoming train. When you see the bridge, don't cross it. It was exciting to see a train actually pass us by before we continued down the 2 min. trail down to Mossbrae Falls on the right. Bring snacks. Be safe. And clean up after yourself. read more

It is a relatively easy, albeit rocky hike along the Dunsmuir railroad tracks to reach the Mossbrae Falls. The trek is not too long, but be sure to bring a hat and sunglasses because depending on the time you go, the tracks will be lacking shade. When we came here for the first time, we came around noontime and were roasting like pigs by the end of the hike. This time we arrived around 4 pm and although it was still a bit hot, there was a good amount of shade on the tracks on the way back. When you see a bridge, take a right to an opening in the trees, which will bring you down a path to the falls. Then you'll behold the magnificent Mossbrae Falls and all of its glory of cascading waters. There is a extremely welcoming drop of temperature near the water, especially on a warm summer day, and it would be the perfect place for a small picnic or lunch, either upon the large boulders nearby or under the shaded protection of one of the trees. The path to these falls is far from comfortable, having to tread the entire way on many rocks, but the hike is not strenuous at all and the tracks do parallel a gorgeous river at the side. The Mossbrae Falls are definitely worth seeing; its cascading waters and lush green surroundings will leave you amazed at how this treasure of immeasurable natural beauty can be hidden in this small, little city. read more

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One of the beautiful falls in Northern California. Must visit if you are in this place. Like other reviewers said keep an eye for the trains from both the sides, bcz of the nearby river sound, it's hard to hear the train sound. But we have enough space on the side to stand. The falls is just before the wooden bridge. So don't miss it. Parking the car is bit difficult. We parked the car in the city and then started walking along the trail. 2.4 miles one way trip from hedge creek falls. The trail is filled with gravel stones, so it will be difficult to walk. Inspite of all these difficulties this is a must visit place. read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Mossbrae falls - Hiking Near Me

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Feels as if I'm in Jarassic Park and a Pterodactyl will swoop down at any minute! After a 30 minute walk along the railroad track (keeping our eyes and ears out for trains) we arrived at this oasis! It is such a beautiful sight tucked away from the public. The snow was nice to walk on since the railroad is quite rocky. Wear good shoes!!! Will visit again in the summer time when the weather is warmer! read more

This is worth the mile and a half trek. Absolutely feels like heaven on earth. So beautiful and never crowded. (Honestly don't know how this place has four and a half stars!) I have always met nice people on my adventures to Mossbrae as well!!! See you soon read more

Mossbrae Falls - Access Restricted - Hiking Near Me

This place is so amazing and magical! I've hiked this a couple times now and this last time encountered what I feared - a train. I was told they move slow through here and not to worry but still...I did, because there's not really a way to escape from being so close to the tracks at times. We heard the train whistle, which was quite distinct and was not confused with the sounds of big rigs on the freeway...it gave us enough time to wander a bit further to find a little hiding spot before it made its way to us and cruise by - the train was moving slow but still at a steady pace. Anyway, that just added to the excitement of the whole adventure! Also, I was hiking with a geologist major and she pointed out (with excitement) the specific rock formations seen all along the trail which are quite interesting! I think the proper terminology may be "Basalt" (columns) but don't take my word for it just keep your eyes open! You can feel when you approach the waterfall but if you come to the bridge (with train tracks) you went a few steps too far! Enjoy! read more

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Such an easy walk to the falls. I was concerned that a train would come by without me noticing, and I have no idea why people writing reviews are so worried about them. Of course, keep in mind you're walking along train tracks, but there was no missing one from a ways out because I could hear it coming in the tracks. Mossbrae falls was exactly what I was hoping for as far as the sight goes. If you're a fan of meditation I would recommend sitting for a bit and getting your vibe on :). I would recommend this to anyone. read more