From May to October 2024, Ananda Marga’s activities in Monterrey, Mexico, and the surrounding areas blossomed with dynamic yoga classes, spiritual retreats, and community service, all spearheaded by Avtk. Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac., Ac. Iishvarakrsnananda Avt., Ac. Cirananda Avt., and a visit from Ac. Ragatmananda Avt. and Ac. Siddeshvarananda Avt. With a focus on both physical and spiritual well-being, these efforts have not only enriched the lives of many participants but also cultivated a deeper connection to the yogic lifestyle and community.
Starting in May, Avtk. Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac. offered yoga classes six days a week across three different locations. These classes saw high attendance, but as the summer progressed, many participants became occupied with holidays and family commitments. However, the core group of committed students remained, and new participants began joining, forming a rejuvenated yoga community in Monclova. By October, seven weekly classes were being held at Didi’s office, with the most dedicated attendees also participating in Dharma Cakra (DC) meditation sessions every Sunday. Around ten to twelve people regularly attend DC, and over this period, twelve women were initiated into spiritual practices in Monclova.
One of the key events during this time was the “Yoga for All” program in June, held at Xochipilli Park and organized by local yoga teachers. Over a hundred people attended, and Avtk. Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac. led an introduction to kirtan, Kaoshikii (a yogic dance), and the spiritual benefits of these practices. Flyers detailing the benefits of Kaoshikii were distributed, and the event further inspired attendees to explore yoga and spirituality.
In August, the first retreat for new practitioners was held at an ashram in Montemorelos, Nuevo León. Eleven participants, accompanied by three Acaryas, took part in the retreat, which focused on the deep practice of kirtan, early morning meditation, and the joys of
sattvik vegetarian food. The participants were deeply inspired by the teachings, the peaceful natural surroundings, and the supportive community atmosphere. This retreat left a lasting impression on everyone involved, strengthening their connection to Ananda Marga’s practices.
September saw continued growth, with a public event organized by one of the yoga students at the Olimpia Hotel in Monclova. Forty people attended, participating in yoga and Kaoshikii classes, learning about kirtan and meditation, and hearing a talk on the yogic lifestyle and the “7 Secrets of Success.” The event also included a book sale, giving attendees an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of yoga philosophy. Acarya Ishvarakrshnananda Av., Ac. Siddheshvarananda Av., and Avtk. Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac. led the program, sharing their wisdom and guidance with the enthusiastic audience.
Monterrey Regional Retreat
In mid-September, a regional retreat was organized by Ac. Cirananda Av. at the Monterrey jagrti, drawing local margiis as well as participants from Morelia. Five Acaryas attended, including Didi Ananda Siddheshvarii, Acarya
Ragatmananda Av., Ac. Ishvarakrshnananda Av., and Ac. Siddheshvarananda Av. The retreat offered participants a chance to deepen their spiritual practices through collective meditation, study of yogic philosophy, and community bonding.
October brought a focus on service, as clothing and non-perishable food donated by yoga students were distributed to five families in need from the Las Moritas neighborhood. In addition, vegetarian cooking classes were introduced before Dharma Cakra sessions on Sundays. Given the local diet, which is heavily
reliant on meat, these classes are helping participants learn the benefits of sattvik (pure) vegetarian food. Some attendees have already reduced their meat consumption and reported feeling better as a result.
Beyond Monterrey and Monclova, Avtk. Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac. traveled to other parts of Mexico to further spread the teachings of Ananda Marga. In June, she visited Sayulita for the first time, where she led two group meetings, discussing Tantra Yoga, the importance of consistent practice, and the benefits of kirtan. The event also included a mantra session followed by an open discussion, with 25 people in attendance.
Thirteen women were initiated into spiritual practices during this visit.
A stop in Morelia followed, where dedicated margiis, Devakii and Purushotama, who run a yoga center called “Desideratum,” hosted public meetings to discuss the yogic lifestyle and the benefits of a sattvik diet and kirtan. These gatherings drew between 25 and 35 participants, and eight women were initiated during an Akhanda Kiirtan held at the margiis’ center.
In addition to her travels, Avtk. Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac. continues to hold weekly online Dharma Cakra sessions every Saturday evening, with ten to twelve participants joining regularly from different regions.
Through yoga classes, retreats, public events, and community service, Ananda Siddheshvarii Ac.’s efforts from May to October 2024 have helped spread the transformative practices of Ananda Marga throughout Monterrey and beyond. Her work continues to inspire individuals to embrace spiritual growth, yogic philosophy, and compassionate living.