Nestled in the peaceful beauty of the Sierra foothills, Ananda Dhiira hosted a transformative Meditation and Wellness Retreat from September 13–17, 2025. Organized by Avadhutika Ananda Acira Acarya and Acarya Diiptimanananda Avadhuta, the retreat offered participants a unique opportunity to step away from daily pressures and immerse themselves in the healing power of nature, yoga, and meditation.
The program wove together both theory and practice. Classes introduced participants to the meaning and practice of mantra meditation and the six steps of natural therapy—water, food, fasting, exercise, hydrotherapy, and meditation—offering a truly holistic approach to health and healing. A special session on cakras and vrittis gave a deeper understanding of how our glands and emotions interact, and how balancing the cakras leads to greater inner strength and harmony.
Participants were also guided through practical hydrotherapy techniques—including sauna, spinal bath, and mud pack—which they can easily continue at home. Some of these practices, like the mud pack by the serene South Yuba River, became unforgettable highlights of the retreat.
The journey began with graduated fasting, followed by juice fasting, supporting the body’s natural cleansing process. Each day included regular yoga practice, meditation walks in nature, and healing sessions with an infrared sauna, spinal bath, and mud packs.
Meals at the retreat were light, nourishing, and beautifully prepared to support the cleansing process. Participants enjoyed vibrant raw foods, fresh vegetables, tasty juices, and soothing broths—all served with care and creativity. Even the simplest dishes were presented with such beauty that eating became a joyful and healing experience. Gentle fasting and juice days helped the body to release toxins, while practices such as coffee enema were introduced for those who wished to deepen their detox.
Meditation was at the heart of the retreat. Not only was it emphasized as a powerful tool for healing, but by the end of the program, each participant received personal meditation instruction to continue their practice at home. Complementing this, sessions in Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and healing sound added a dimension of flow and vibrational balance, completing the holistic wellness experience.
The retreat closed in a spirit of gratitude and joy. Participants expressed heartfelt appreciation for the profound benefits they received—physically, mentally, and spiritually. They departed with lighter bodies, clearer minds, and renewed inspiration for their spiritual journey. A lovingly prepared takeaway lunch for the travel home was offered to help the participants transition into a regular diet.
