By Avadhutika Ananda Acira Acarya
Three Private Retreats Inspire Well-Being and Spiritual Renewal
Ananda Dhiira Master Unit was delighted to host three private retreats between August and September 2026 facilitated by Avadhutika Ananda Acira Ac, welcoming participants to experience spiritual inspiration, personal well-being, and rejuvenation amidst the peaceful beauty of nature.
The retreats included:
• August 28–31, 2026: A Meditation Retreat for four participants.
• September 3–8, 2026: A five-day Detox Retreat for two participants.
• September 26–28, 2026: A Yoga and Meditation Retreat for a family of three.
Each retreat offered a variety of activities designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit. Participants had opportunities to deepen their meditation practice, enjoy relaxation, explore creativity, and reconnect with themselves in the tranquil natural surroundings of Ananda Dhiira.
Surrounded by the serene beauty of the oak forest and the peaceful atmosphere of the Master Unit, participants were able to step away from their busy routines and dedicate time to inner reflection, spiritual growth, and holistic renewal.
All three retreats were meaningful and uplifting experiences, and the participants left feeling happy, refreshed, and inspired.
We are grateful for the opportunity to share the peaceful environment of Ananda Dhiira and support others on their journey toward greater well-being, spiritual development, and inner harmony.
Two Inspiring Women’s Retreats at Ananda Dhiira
Nurturing Creativity, Healing, and Sisterhood
Creative Spirit – Art & Expression: A Sectorial Sisters’ Conference
October 2–4, 2026 | Ananda Dhiira Master Unit, Penn Valley, California
Organized by Avtk. Ananda Acira Ac. and Avtk. Ananda Kalyanmitra Ac, the “Creative Spirit – Art & Expression” Sectorial Sisters’ Conference brought together 12 sisters for a beautiful weekend of creativity, spiritual connection, personal growth, and sisterly bonding.
The retreat provided a nurturing environment for women to strengthen their inner spirit, discover their creative potential, and deepen their spiritual practices. Activities included kiirtan, meditation, nature walks, silent walks, Tai Chi, Chi Gong, and meaningful creative workshops.
Through the Tie-Dye Art with Intention Workshop, sisters explored self-expression by creating colorful designs infused with personal meaning. Each pattern reflected an intention, while the colors evoked different feelings and emotions. The Vision Board Workshop encouraged sisters to explore their dreams, set meaningful goals, and envision the possibilities ahead.
During the Gratitude and Hope Mandala Workshop, sisters reflected on what they had received in life, what they could offer others, and the hopes and blessings they wished to share with their fellow sisters.
Another meaningful part of the gathering was the opportunity for each sister to share an inspirational reading and personal stories that inspires other women. Through these moments of openness and reflection, sisters gained wisdom from one another’s experiences, strengthened their understanding, and celebrated the unique gifts each woman brings to the community.
Surrounded by the peaceful natural beauty of Ananda Dhiira, the sisters enjoyed a weekend filled with laughter, heartfelt sharing, spiritual practice, and creative expression. The conference strengthened the bonds of sisterhood and reminded everyone of the power of women coming together to inspire, encourage, and uplift one another on the spiritual journey.
The gathering concluded with hearts full of gratitude, renewed inspiration, and a deeper sense of unity. Together, we create, inspire, and shine!
Awaken the Feminine Warrior: A One-Day Women’s Retreat at
Ananda Dhiira MU, Penn Valley, CA
Organized by Avtk. Ananda Acira Ac., Sister Iris, and Sister Rebecca, the “Awaken the Feminine Warrior” retreat on October 11, 2026, welcomed 10 women for a day of healing, self-discovery, spiritual connection, and renewal.
The retreat offered a supportive space for women to reconnect with their inner strength, nurture their well-being, and honor their connection with nature and their ancestors. Through a series of meaningful activities, participants were invited to release tension, cultivate gratitude, and awaken their inner courage and feminine wisdom.
The program included an Affirmation Card Workshop, encouraging women to reflect on positive intentions and personal strengths, followed by kiirtan and meditation. A soothing sound bath by Iris was created an atmosphere of deep relaxation and peaceful reflection.
The group also experienced a nature immersion along the beautiful South Yuba River, where the natural surroundings offered an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with the Earth, and appreciate the beauty of the present moment.
One particularly meaningful session focused on honoring our ancestors led by Rebecca. Didi introduced a mantra-based practice as a way to express gratitude and remembrance, inviting participants to reflect on their roots and acknowledge those who came before them.
The retreat also included a full-body mud-pack detox experience and a flower offering to Mother Nature, symbolizing appreciation, reverence, and our connection with the natural world.
A special highlight was introducing all 10 participants to Baba Nam Kevalam meditation for the first time. Through this simple yet profound spiritual practice, they had an opportunity to experience the sweetness of mantra meditation and the peace of turning inward.
The day concluded with a renewed sense of connection, gratitude, and empowerment. Through meditation, nature, healing activities, and shared experiences, the retreat encouraged each woman to recognize her inner strength and continue moving forward with courage, compassion, and an open heart.
May every woman awaken her inner warrior, embrace her innate wisdom, and shine her light into the world!
