Supported Silent Retreat
With Thomas Smith and Cassedi Carlsen
October 22 - 25, 2026
“Through the portals of silence, the healing sun of wisdom and peace will shine upon you.”
– Paramhansa Yogananda
Experience the nurturing quality of a Silent Retreat in a supportive group environment where you can still your mind and rejuvenate your spirit. Our meditation gardens and wild forest setting provide the perfect backdrop for you to go deep into silence and re-connect with your true reality… the soul’s ever-existing Peace.
*Please note: You can take a silent retreat of your own at any time throughout the year. Sign up for Secluded Personal Retreat and receive guidance and instruction from our experienced retreat hosts–with the option to be in total or partial supported silence.
During your days of silent retreat onsite there will be:
*Three daily gatherings for meditation
*Instruction in Hong Sau- a timeless meditation technique that can help you still the mind and open yourself to your innate inner peace
*Ananda Yoga Postures- for higher awareness, to direct your energy, and prepare you for meditation
*Optional evening activities
*Ample free time- for reading, hiking, journaling, and resting-to deepen and enrich your inner and outer experience.
*Delicious and Nourishing Vegetarian Meals
The retreat includes all meals from Thursday dinner through Sunday breakfast. Gluten and dairy-free options are available- please let us know if you have specific dietary restrictions when you register.
*At the conclusion of the retreat: Closing Circle
We will gather for a Closing Circle, which has been very meaningful to guests. You can share any experiences and insights, and the facilitator will share tips on how to nurture the inspiration from the retreat – and take the next steps on your journey.
Sample Schedule
THURSDAY
3-5 pm– Check-in
5:30 pm– Guided Meditation Gathering
6:30 pm– Dinner
7:30 pm– Gathering to enter into Silence
Evening– Guided Reading or other suggested or self-chosen activity
FRIDAY
Early morning– 6:30-8:30 am– Energization Exercises and Group Meditation (guests may leave early)
8:30 am– Breakfast
10:30 am– Meditation class
Noon– Group Gathering and Guided Meditation
12:30 pm– Lunch
Afternoon– Free time for Personal Reflection, Reading, Hiking, Meditation, or other self-chosen activities.
4:30-56:30 pm– Energization Exercises, Yoga postures, and Meditation
6:30 pm– Dinner
7:30 pm– Optional Session, Guided Reading – or your own self-chosen activity
SATURDAY
Early morning– 6:30-8:30 am Energization Exercises and Group Meditation (guests may leave early)
8:30 am- Breakfast
10 am– “Mystic in the Garden” tour (Or spend time in quiet reflection with your own activity.)
Noon– Group Gathering and Guided Meditation
12:30 pm– Lunch
Afternoon– Free time for Personal Reflection, Reading, Hiking, Meditation, or other self-chosen activities.
4:30-6:30 pm– Energization Exercises, Yoga postures, and Meditation
6:30 pm– Dinner
7:30 pm– Optional Evening Activity- Guided Reading – or your own self-chosen activity
SUNDAY
Early morning 6:30-8:30 am Energization Exercises, Yoga postures, and Meditation
8:30 am– Breakfast
9:15 am– Closing Circle- Silence ends
11:00 am– check-out
(Optional Sunday activities at Ananda Village: 11 am Sunday Service, Lunch at Expanding Light Retreat, Crystal Hermitage gardens and shrines)
What Others are Saying…
A place where you can connect with your Inner Peace, Nature and Higher Self. Everyone in this busy world of ours would benefit form a silent retreat at Ananda Meditation Retreat.Veronika Winski, Huntington Beach, CA
I discovered the value of not using my words, of being humbled through the silence to connect spiritually, and the value of taking in the joy of service and solitude. I feel strengthened, inspired and freed by staying connected in every moment.J. E., santa Rosa, CA
I came here because I needed to gain a sense of clarity and balance as I work to resolve some painful life experiences this year. Through the 3-day silent retreat, I was able to get in touch with a deep sense of peace and light within me.B.C., Reno, NV
About the Hosts
Thomas Smith
A natural leader with a warm and engaging presence, Thomas is passionate about fostering spiritual community, supporting others on their paths, and continually deepening his own practice. Through his dedication to service, meditation, and spiritual growth, he strives to uplift and inspire those around him, helping them connect more deeply with their highest potential At […]
Learn more about Thomas Smith
Cassedi Carlsen
Cassedi brings warmth, joy, and a deep love for nature and our natural rhythms to her service at the Retreat. She supports guests in feeling at home at the Meditation Retreat, offering guidance in yoga, meditation, and spiritual living. Whether through joyfully preparing nourishing meals, or heartfelt instruction, Cassedi creates space for inner stillness and […]
Learn more about Cassedi CarlsenCategories : DEPARTMENT, INTEGRATION, PROGRAM CATEGORY, Salesforce, Seclusion Retreat, Specialty Retreats