Participants at the annual silent retreat on Oahu shared heartfelt reflections on their week of stillness by the sea.
If you are thinking of doing a silent retreat but are not sure if it is right for you, the silent retreat in Hawaii is a perfect place to start! It's literally held in paradise, so close to the ocean that the waves and the birds are often all that is heard. It is extremely well organized, and the schedule offers just enough variety, structure, and free time to foster inner reflection through meditation, yoga, satsangs, bhajans, and seva. The food prepared and cooked by the volunteers is truly amazing, delicious, and healthy! Although for some, silence and lack of access to cell phones are difficult to maintain for six days, the time goes by quickly, and the feeling of relaxation, peace, inner clarity, and love are the invaluable rewards of making the effort.
— Mickey Ryan, Concord, CA
We are so blessed to have this retreat. It's really something I look forward to year after year. Amma's presence and grace are palpable.
— Anonymous
I came to this retreat seeking Amma in any form soon after being diagnosed with cancer. I came here in resistance and such anger, not understanding what was happening… to complete acceptance and surrender! A year later, being back, I'm cancer-free and now a published author in an international best-selling book! That is absolutely the grace of Amma.
— Michelle Silva, Vancouver, Canada
Such a feeling of peace within! My love for Amma allows me to create more as an artist and teacher, allowing me to shine light through such challenging times… Truly grateful for it all.
— Michelle Silva, Vancouver, Canada
Having quiet moments by the ocean helps calm the mind even as the waves crash on the shore.
— Anonymous
I felt like this was a homecoming. I reconnected with Mother Earth and was amazed at how comfortable I was with the silence. I remember thinking how loud the silence was. On the last day, I was sad that the retreat was coming to an end.
— Beth Reiner, Chicago, IL
I got to see the mind as the liar it is. Swamiji and Swamini's talks on the mind really helped to catch it. It would offer me past experiences and trauma on a platter, and I was able to say, "No, thank you." Thank you for the incredible opportunity and grace.
— Vino Gupta, Chicago, IL
