October 2-4 (Fri 7pm-Sun 12 Noon)
Ananda Ashram
13 Sapphire Rd., Monroe, NY 10950
Theme: Moving Forward
This year, we will explore how to pick up movement your spiritual work. In Tantra, we generally will undergo many transformations and initiations in a lifetime, sometimes tied to life milestones (such as birth, marriage, etc.), while others are tied to psychological growth and challenging life situations. While times of stillness or silence can be a part of the journey, sometimes, things need to change in our approach to our spiritual work in order to wake movement up again. We will discuss spiritual practices that will help you to increase the “fire” in your spiritual work, as well as clear out any underlying blockages that may be causing stagnancy. In terms of Tantric practice, we will specifically discuss the use of the tattvas, five elements, and “dream quests.”
At a previous participant’s request, I will provide some more time for creativity and discussion.
Every year, the Inner Lotus retreat explores the intersections of the Indian philosophical systems of vedanta and tantra, with mental health and self-development from modern psychoanalytic theory. We hope to cultivate a space for like-minded individuals looking to learn and connect through spirituality, with a deep interest in psychology and reconnecting with the self. The retreat takes place at an ashram with beautiful grounds where you can take hikes, nature walks, or just sit peacefully and take in the trees and fresh mountain air! See below for the full retreat program.
Registration Fee: $300
Register Here. Accommodations must be booked separately with the ashram (See below).
Accommodations & Meals: Overnight Stay Registration Please note rates are for the full weekend (2 nights)
You are not required to stay at the ashram, and can book an Airbnb nearby, if you prefer.
Breakfast, lunch, chai-nashta, and dinner will be provided by the ashram. All meals are vegan & vegetarian, other dietary accommodations available by request upon arrival at the ashram at the main office.
Transportation:
The ashram is accessible by public transportation at the MetroNorth/NJT Harriman Station (changeover at Secaucus from NYC). Uber/Lyft is available and should cost around $10.
If any issues, contact the ashram at 845.782.5575
Local taxi services (please give advance notice, 1-2 days earlier is better):
Monroe Taxi 845.782.8141
Village Taxi 845.783.6112
Beam's Taxi 845.783.4444
Free parking is available on site.
Retreat Program
Items listed in italics are part of the normal ashram activities, and are completely optional to attend as a part of the retreat.
Friday: You may choose to arrive at any time to get settled in and explore the grounds. Room check in is 4:00pm.
5:30pm Dinner
7:00pm Ashram Meditation (optional)
8:00-9:00pm Welcome Address and Introductions
Saturday
8:00am-9:00am Breakfast
9:00-10:00am Class 1
10:00-10:30am Break
10:30am-12:00pm Class 2 & Discussion
12:30-1:30pm Lunch (Chai, coffee, and snacks always available in dining hall)
4:00-5:30pm Class 3 & Meditation
5:30-6:30pm Dinner
7:00-8:00pm Satsang (Open Q&A)
Sunday Room check out 12:00pm
8:00-9:00am Breakfast
9:00-10:30am Class 4
11:00-11:30am Meditation
11:30am-12:00pm Wrap-Up & Farewells
12:30 pm-1:30pm Lunch