During the summer of 2024, thirty people participated in three meditation retreats at Ananda Kanan, Ananda Girisuta, and Ananda Dhiira, organized by Avt. Ananda Acirá Ácárá and Ác. Diiptimanánanda Avt. The meditation retreats are intended for new and newly initiated people who want to enjoy the natural beauty of our Master Units, learn more about meditation, spiritual philosophy, and yoga, and connect to their inner selves.
During the retreat in Asheville, one of the highlights was walking and meditating by River Laurel and visiting Hot Springs. The participants enjoyed meditating with the soothing sound of the river and the fresh breeze of the forest around the river. Some participants were very interested in Maonavrata, so we dedicated the second last day to 24 hours of Maonavrata. They were still allowed to sing Kiirtana and ask questions during classes.
The September 18 – 22 meditation retreat at Ananda Dhiira featured visits to the South Yuba River, enchanting Kiirtana, and deep meditation. One participant came from the United Kingdom, another flew in from Arkansas, and the rest were from California. The group harmonized very well and had a lot of fun conversations and interactions during meals, free time, and nature walks. One participant was a medical doctor who was very interested in understanding the benefits of yoga, meditation, fasting, and other Ananda Marga practices. She sparked lively discussions, and we were all interested to hear various perspectives on health, nutrition, and society. The weather was lovely, with light rain one day and warm sun, cool bathing, and peaceful meditation by the South Yuba River on other days.