oh MAXSA

The following is a copy of a assignment I have submitted for MAXSA class (aka Maximizing Study Abroad), a course in which we reflect and share our interactions with our host culture and which I take very seriously:

Dear Tara,

A triumph in the process of Coping with my host Culture. You see I have for some time felt I like I am not getting enough exercise or able to physically express myself in a comfortable and acceptable manner. In India it is not acceptable for women to wear workout garb common to the US eg shorts and tank top. Additionally, taking a walk is not generally understood and it is highly unusual for a woman to jog. All these taboos have made it extremely difficult for me to integrate my usual physical routines into the cultural context.
Initially I became highly frustrated with Indian culture and values. I said “so sexist, that women can’t even jog!(evaluative inference type)” and “this is why they are all fat isn’t? (interpretive inference type).” But these inferences did nothing for preventing belly fat from encroaching. We used to D-I-E model of inference making to find a productive solution.
I am thrilled to report that my roommate and I, with the help of the model, have come up with an effective coping technique that allows my physical expression and increases my cultural integration. This technique is Dance Workout Bollywood! We get into our ‘inappropriate’ workout outfits in our room. Then we turn on a video of a hopping music number of our favorite new Bollywood film (from rental walla) and do the dance of Sharuk Khan, Aamir Khan and Aishwary Rai. Now we are engaging in daily exercise and engaging in the local cultural expression all at once. The D-I-E model of inference has helped me so much. Thank you MAXSA!

written by  Drie on February 25, 2008 from Jaipur, India
from the travel blog: Adventures in Hindustan
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