First Timers' Retreat

Would You Like To Try Something New?
Take a break and spend a weekend at a beautiful yoga and meditation retreat nestled in nature. Rejuvenate in a relaxed and uplifting atmosphere—you’ll be glad you did!

If you haven’t yet taken a Retreat at the Expanding Light, you’re in for a wonderful experience. Come alone, or with a friend, and have a sublime experience. (Even ‘old-timers’ can attend these weekends with first-time friends.)

A Perfect Getaway:

• Learn why and how to meditate — or take your existing practice deeper
• Gain tips for greater health and harmony in your life
• Experience gentle yoga postures to improve flexibility of body, mind, and soul
• Connect with our sustainable community – enjoy a dynamic tour of Ananda Village, one of the world’s most respected intentional communities
• Rejuvenate in our peaceful 700 acres of forest, farm, gardens, temples, and holy places.
• Relax in the company of other first-time visitors, friendly staff and Ananda community members
• Time for Yourself – take a walk, sit by Lotus Lake or curl up on a couch with a book

Why Choose The Expanding Light Retreat?

• Beautiful and Comfortable: Immerse yourself in surroundings that are not only beautiful but also provide the comfort needed for a rejuvenating retreat
• Quiet and Tranquil: Experience a stillness that makes meditation easy, allowing you to slow down and reconnect with yourself
• Nature’s Abundance: Find yourself surrounded by nature—woods, deer, birds, and myriad wildlife—to hike or sit by a lake
• New Connections with Like-minded People: Connect with a community of spiritually minded, happy individuals, who support you on your spiritual journey
• And…the food is delicious and healthy! Enjoy organic vegetarian meals prepared with love

You’ll return home uplifted, inspired, and energized. Join Us for a Weekend of New Beginnings!

Receive a FREE book from the “Wisdom of Yogananda” series as part of your retreat experience

First Timers’ Comments:

“Thank you so very much for your kindness and guidance. 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 introductory sessions provided a good first scaffolding for me.” —J.M., Olympia, WA

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

“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

“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

Here is a poem I wrote at Ananda during one of my last days with you all.
Awakened souls embrace me.
Nature’s loveliness and serenity nurture me.
Attunement and energy surround me.
Now is all that matters.
Deep joy and inner peace flood my soul.
Abundantly blessed, I am forever grateful.

Blessings of love, joy, and peace to you!
— Joyce, your sister from MN