Peace by the Sea: A Silent Retreat in Maui

From January 31 to February 6, a Silent Retreat was held in Maui under the guidance of Swami Dayamritananda Puri and Swamini Ambikamrita Prana.

There were 46 retreat participants, and about 65 people in total including the seva team and musicians. Throughout the week, the atmosphere was one of quiet reflection, devotion, and shared spiritual intention.

Swami Dayamritananda Puri and Swamini Ambikamrita Prana offered daily talks that many found deeply inspiring. They shared personal experiences, stories about Amma, and practical guidance for spiritual life. At times their words were light and humorous; at other moments they spoke with a depth that touched the heart. The central message throughout was to hold firmly to the spiritual path and to continue going deeper within.

A highlight for many was the daily group meditation at the beach across the street. Sitting together while listening to the steady rhythm of the ocean waves, feeling the warmth of the sun and the movement of the wind, participants described entering a natural state of peace and oneness. The setting supported a deep stillness that carried into the rest of the day.

Bhajans in the evenings were especially uplifting. During the second half of the week, a special guest singer, Amritesh from Chicago, joined and further enriched the devotional singing. Many felt the collective energy and devotion deepen as the retreat unfolded.

Yoga sessions were led this year by a teacher from Maui who thoughtfully adapted the practice for all levels. The classes helped participants open and relax their bodies, supporting longer meditation sessions and overall ease.

On the final day, the group visited a nearby bay to offer prayers for the world. Standing together at the water’s edge, each person held water in cupped hands while chanting mantras before returning it to the ocean. As waves splashed against their legs, many felt it as a blessing — a simple yet powerful closing to the week.

One participant shared:
"The group beach meditation was so powerful and peaceful. Truly the highlight of my whole retreat. I was blissed out. Turquoise waters and the fresh breeze, so heavenly. The north shore of Oahu has my heart now. And we saw turtles every single day!
I also really enjoyed the yoga. So nice to open the body after our meditation sessions.
Bhajans in the evening were especially potent, filled with so much devotion.
I would absolutely attend this silent retreat again! Mahalo to everyone who made it come together so beautifully."
— Ki

The week concluded with gratitude for the teachers, the seva team, and the natural beauty that supported the retreat. Participants left with renewed inspiration to continue their spiritual practice and to carry the peace of the retreat into daily life.