Embracing Love Within: A Mother’s Day Retreat
May 18, 2025 — MI
The MA Center of Michigan (MACMI) recently hosted a heartfelt women’s retreat in honor of Mother’s Day, bringing together women of all ages for a day woven with connection, movement, creativity, and reflection. Guided by Swamini Ambikamrita Prana, who joined us from Chicago, the retreat offered a nurturing space for women to pause, connect, and celebrate the universal spirit of motherhood—both within and around us.
A Glimpse into the Retreat:
Experience moments from the Mother’s Day Women’s Retreat.
Watch the Retreat Highlights Video
A morning of spiritual grounding and gentle renewal
The day began with a soul-stirring chanting of the Lalita Sahasranama, which set a peaceful, intentional tone. Though optional, many chose to begin their morning immersed in the sacred vibrations of this powerful practice, anchoring the day in stillness and grace. This was followed by a Manasa Puja, a offering of the 108 names of Amma—Mata Amritanandamayi—our beloved spiritual guide and embodiment of unconditional motherly love. The ritual provided a moment of deep inner reflection and spiritual connection. After a break with a rejuvenating cup of chai brewed with warmth and care by Raji Sankaran, the retreat transitioned into the body with Amrita Yoga, led by Jagruti, a certified instructor from Chicago. Inspired by Amma’s teachings, this heart-centered yoga practice invited participants into a space of presence, stillness, and compassion. As they stretched and breathed with intention, a sense of calm and renewal gently emerged. The morning concluded with a moving satsang (spiritual talk) led by Swamini Ambikamrita Prana on the theme of forgiveness—forgiving ourselves and others, and allowing the heart to soften. Her thoughtful insights offered gentle wisdom and practical tools for releasing old burdens and creating space for healing.
An afternoon of play, creativity, and connection
Lunch, lovingly prepared by volunteer Akshaya, was shared in a warm circle of conversation and connection—accompanied by desserts from Madhavi and sandwiches from Ajitha Kymal, thoughtfully prepared to accommodate everyone’s dietary needs. The simple act of eating together became another expression of community and care. In the afternoon, the participants stepped outside to enjoy nature and playful moments together. The retreat center’s natural surroundings came alive with laughter and joy—women swung on swings, wandered the grounds, and danced under the open sky. Madhavi, a MACMI volunteer, led a group dance to Amma’s “Mata Rani” song, guiding everyone in a joyful “hustle” that helped shed inhibitions and awaken childlike delight. In that moment, there were no roles, no ages—just women celebrating life, presence, and each other. The day continued with a collage-making session led by Nishkama, inviting creativity and self-reflection. Surrounded by magazines, markers, colorful paper, and quiet focus, attendees thoughtfully selected words and images that reflected their personal journeys. Each collage became a visual narrative—some expressing healing and growth, others capturing joy, dreams, and intention. A few women shared their collages and the heartfelt stories behind them, offering glimpses of transformation and gratitude. To conclude the retreat, the group presented a beautiful handmade card signed by all to Swamini Amma, as a token of love and appreciation for her guidance. Each participant was gifted a heart-shaped candle infused with Amma’s fragrance, lovingly hand-poured by Penny Agner, an Amma volunteer from Canada. This thoughtful keepsake served as a sensory reminder of the light, love, and sisterhood shared throughout the day. A final moment of silence and collective gratitude brought the retreat to a gentle, meaningful close. A quiet energy lingered as many departed feeling seen, renewed, and connected.
More Than a Retreat—A Shared Experience
The Mother’s Day retreat at MACMI was more than a celebration—it was a rare opportunity to return to what truly matters. It was a day to slow down, reflect, and honor the shared experience of womanhood, motherhood, and community. It was a day of remembering—ourselves, each other, and the love that unites us all.
“Every single activity and interaction was filled with joy. Swamini Amma’s presence, her inspiring talks, and the laughter we shared made it a truly memorable retreat filled with Amma’s grace.” — Sundari Murthy
“The events were both deeply poignant and also full of fun. Amma’s Ubiquitous Presence and Swamini’s Loving Spirit were felt in abundance, bringing us all together in Kind Hearted Unity. A great experience of Amma’s True Sisterhood.” – Nishkama (Irene Ryke)