Guide to Meditation Retreats
This year several cities in the US and Canada will be having one-day meditation retreats. Retreats consist of periods of silent meditation, pranayama, and yoga asanas which are interspersed with Amma’s inspiring discourses. In the peaceful atmosphere of the retreat, Amma speaks about the enlightened principles of Sanatana Dharma, and covers various topics that inspire us to lead a dharmic lifestyle and go deeper in our own sadhana to realize the ultimate goal of Truth in this lifetime.
I.
Amma understands the many distractions and difficulties we sometimes face when we try to meditate. Accordingly, she has designed these retreats in a special way. During the retreats, participants will be requested to maintain silence. As Amma says, “Silence is the language of God.” The silent retreat atmosphere allows us to focus solely on our spiritual practices, thereby allowing us to go deep within. Participants are encouraged to forgo ordinary conversations, set aside their day-to-day concerns, and dive deep into the ocean of the Self within. As Amma teaches, it is only when we look within through meditation that we find the true presence of Divinity within our Heart.
II.
At the beginning of each retreat, detailed instructions will be given so that newcomers can easily learn how to meditate. The powerful energy associated with being in Amma’s divine presence will help beginning meditators to glide easily into a meditative state. For those who already have an established practice, being in Amma’s presence will help to deepen the peace and bliss experienced in meditation.
III.
Many who have attended retreats with Amma in the past have experienced that simply being in her presence had a powerful transformative effect on their daily practice of meditation. People from many different religions and spiritual paths have attended, and have found their own faith deepened and enhanced. As Amma often says, “Be in your own faith, travel on your own path, but elevate more and more in that path.” These retreats will provide a very precious opportunity to all who want to deepen their spiritual practice and travel ever higher on whatever spiritual path they have chosen. Anyone who wishes to learn about meditation or deepen their meditative practice is most welcome to attend.
General Guidelines for Meditation Retreats
Please wear clean, modest attire that covers the knees and shoulders.
Please observe silence while in Amma’s presence.
Chairs are also provided, but it’s best to bring a pillow or blanket if you plan on sitting on the floor.
Please turn all beepers and cell phones off or to blink/vibrate mode so that others are not disturbed.
Please do not take photos without special permission beforehand. Video and audio-taping are not permitted.
During All Programs,
We Kindly Request That You:
Retreat Options
Half-day and full-day options are available for the 1 day meditation retreat. The half-day retreat is valid for either the morning session from 8 am until lunch time OR the afternoon session from lunch until 6 pm. Lunch will be served at approximately 1 pm and is included in both sessions. Please note that break timings are approximate.
When to arrive
Registration / Check-in is between 8 am and 9 am. Light breakfast will be available at this time.
What to wear
Clean modest attire that covers the knees and shoulder.
White clothes are highly recommended and required for participating in the retreat.
What to bring
Floor cushion / asana, if you would like to sit on the floor. Chairs are also provided.
Yoga mat.
Notebook and pen to take notes during Amma’s discourses.
Printout/screenshot of your registration form and tickets, if you registered and paid online.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do observe complete verbal silence throughout the day from 9 am until retreat closing.
Do remain in silence especially during Amma’s discourses and refrain from asking questions and doubts during class.
Do not approach Amma or speak with Amma during the retreat, including during Amma’s arrival and departure from the venue, break times and lunch hour. Amma will not be granting personal interviews for anyone on retreat day. (Individual Blessing day is when you can have personal one-on-one time with Amma).
Do not bring children or family and friends who have not registered to participate in the retreat.
Do ensure that your cell phones are in silent mode, or switched off completely.
Do not take any photos.
Do not take any video or audio-recording.
