First-Timers' Week

What our guests say:

"I just spent an amazing week at the First-Timers' Retreat. I knew it would be a good experience from what I had read about Ananda and The Expanding Light Retreat. However, I received much more than I expected. While there is discipline involved in attending the daily yoga and meditation as well as the intstructional classes, there is no pressure to do so. It is all up to the individual. I recommend that you make the effort to be a part of the entire program as it is rich in teaching and practice.
    "The community at Ananda is so welcoming one feels a part of it from the very beginning. All of our instructors were extremely positive and supportive. We learned a great deal about the Ananda philosophy and how to use the meditation skills to bring us to a higher awareness and enable us to better handle the trials of daily living that are a part of all of our lives.
     "If you have any reservations about attending this retreat or any other classes, know your spirit will be well cared for by exceptionally loving and supportive people. The accommodations are excellent and the vegetarian food was very good.
     "I have brought home a calmness that I've not had before, as well as some very important personal insights. Thank you, Expanding Light, for lifting me up with your love." — F.K., Tucson, AZ

"In my fast-paced life, where it seemed that responsibilities and difficulties were piling up too fast to resolve, it turned out that stopping and taking some time to be still and happy by myself was the best possible resolution. I arrived in pieces and left at peace!" — James, Snohomish, WA

"The First-Timers' Week was wonderful!  I’m so glad I gave myself the opportunity to relax and learn in such a beautiful environment.  The food was tasty, the staff was friendly, and our retreat leader, Mukti, was terrific.  She was compassionate, knowledgeable, and flexible regarding our needs.  I learned so much and really enjoyed my time at Expanding Light.  I highly recommend this retreat!" — L.W., Fremont, CA

“Thank you so very much for your kindness and guidance this past week on the First-Timers' Week. I truly came away learning so much and can't say enough about how beautiful and peaceful Ananda Village is. There is definitely a joyous and spiritual vibration. Even the animals feel it; I saw lizards playing with each other, deer relaxing in the shade under my porch, birds singing; it was all magical.
   "I got exactly what I hoped out of the retreat and then some; quiet time, a chance to do yoga and meditation twice a day, eat healthy food, and even a taste of bliss. The divine spirit is available when one taps into the source through positive and healthy focus.”   - K.M., San Rafael, CA

"The structure of the program was excellent for me. I came knowing very little about this strand of spiritual philosophy and practice, so the many introductory sessions provided a good first scaffolding for me, especially the stages of realization." J.M., Olympia, WA

"All teachers and staff were inspiring. Everyone has joy and love in their hearts, and it radiates." Tara, Middletown, CA

"This program is beyond anything I imagined. I did learn how to do yoga and meditation, but beyond that, I learned that I am capable of self-love and devotion to God. Everything was so well done. Loved the accommodations, meals, cleanliness, and the organized approach."  Sri, Milpitas, CA

"Thank you for the joy you brought to this week by your kindness and sense of humor. And thank you for giving us tools to help with the first steps on the path of meditation and Self-realization. All the best to you and keep on shining."  —L.R., Monterey, CA

"I wanted to thank you again for a wonderful and insightful week at The Expanding Light. I really enjoyed being in your presence, and I'm grateful for the tools you've shared with me. I feel like I've finally caught a glimpse of the light inside of me—a light I've been chasing all of my life. As long as I can remember, I've sensed there was something very special and powerful inside of me, but I didn't know how to reach it. You have all truly blessed me with a deep and spiritual awakening. Ananda is a very special place, and I hope I can hold onto as much of it as possible."  —Shauna, Oakland, CA  —5-day program

"I was surprised by how the whole philosophy and practice made so much sense. Being skeptical of religion, I am also surprised that I am leaving with a spiritual practice/belief. The information I learned and the practical methods gave me confidence in taking Yoga home with me. A great 5 days—I am very thankful I found Ananda." —Elizabeth H.

"I had needs met I didn't even know I had! Every day was a new adventure, with something interestng and transforming. It almost felt like little miracles. The food was nutritious (begone cheeseburgers!) and very good." —P.T.

"No matter the point in your life upon arrival, you will leave uplifted and take with you that which speaks to your soul." —C.M., Danville, CA

"The perfect place to get to know yourself at deeper and higher levels. Everyone is welcoming and accepting of all. Don't miss out on the experience of getting to know yourself." —F.V., Toronto, Canada

"When people ask me about the retreat, I say 'They are living it.' Meaning you all are truly living a spiritual life and creating spiritual community in every way."

Teresa, Kentucky - 5 day program

"My friend said that her time in Ananda and Expanding Light was the best present she has ever had in her life! I guess that says it all.... me too!   We love you all and truly miss you!  At 10 am I wanted to head over to our classroom for another fascinating, laughter-filled, and inspiring class."

—Pam, Redding, Ca - 5 day program 

 

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Please send us a Question for more information:

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First-Timers' Photo Gallery