10-Day Silent Retreat

For Ashtanga practitioners sometimes the most difficult if not dreaded part of the practice is sitting still. Yet taking time to cultivate finishing postures, pranayama forms as well as meditation practice can enliven and bring a whole new depth to our daily asana practice. In this silent retreat we will focus on the balancing combination of asana, meditation and breathing practices. Each day we will sit, practice Mysore style, chant, explore postures in depth in guided sessions and work with the philosophical underpinnings of the elements of compassion and an understanding of the nature of the mind and the body.

Most days will be spent in meditative silence to allow the practices to be assimilated and take root. What better place to experiment with silence than in the supportive environment of the ocean and nature that is part of the Samahita experience. The retreat is appropriate for beginning and seasoned meditation practitioners alike. To understand more about this retreat please read this testimonial.

This retreat is a remarkable opportunity to slow down, reflect and go deeply into practice. Immersed in the richness of nature and the tropics, when we introduce silence of speech, something magical happens. Spaces, insights, and a sense of groundedness emerge freely. These shifts in experience and perspective are always there in the background, but when we introduce the freedom of silence, they shine forth.

Day two we ease into silence and on the last full day we ease back out. Students are encouraged to keep silent, stay off screens, and take advantage of the rare opportunity for reflection and renewal in the vastness of nature. Mary and Richard will be available if difficulties, doubts or questions within the practice arise.