Yoga in Daily Life Summer Retreat in Strilky, August 2024
Every summer, Yoga in Daily Life offers a unique retreat, designed for devotees, practitioners and spiritual seekers worldwide. This year’s retreat commenced in June in Strilky Mahaprabhudeep Ashram, Czech Republic, then continued in Vép, Hungary, and has again returned to the serene location of Strilky Ashram. Both locations are nestled in tranquil nature, rich in prana, and provide an ideal sanctuary for those looking to escape the busyness of life, find inner peace and recharge their energies.
The Yoga in Daily Life Summer Retreat presents a rich and diverse program, tailored to suit all levels of practitioners. Participants begin their day with gentle asanas, followed by rejuvenating pranayama and calming meditation sessions.
A standout feature of the retreat is the guided Yoga Nidra, based on the principles of Yoga in Daily Life. This practice offers deep relaxation, calming the mind, balancing emotions and addressing psychosomatic conditions.
For experienced practitioners, an advanced program of Kriya Anushthan is offered. It delves deeper into meditation, promoting not only physical and mental well-being but also enhancing spiritual development.
In addition, the retreat includes a specialised program for Yoga Teachers, led by highly qualified trainers. This provides an invaluable opportunity for yoga educators to refine their skills, deepen their practice and gain new insights to bring back to their students.
The Yoga in Daily Life Summer Retreat has become increasingly popular among families, attracting more parents with children each year. The retreat offers a dedicated children’s program, featuring yoga classes, creative workshops in painting, acting and singing, as well as ample free time for play in the children’s park or walks in the forest. This family-friendly atmosphere ensures that participants of all ages can engage in activities that promote growth, learning, and relaxation.
Participants are treated to freshly prepared vegetarian and vegan meals, complemented by seasonal fruits from the ashram orchards and garden. These nourishing meals support the physical practices of yoga and contribute to the overall well-being of each participant.
A unique aspect of the retreat is the daily Satsang. In Sanskrit, Satsang means 'in the company of truth'. It allows participants to come together with like-minded individuals on the spiritual path, reflecting, sharing and drawing inspiration that can be applied in daily life.
The vibrant atmosphere of the retreat is enriched by the sounds of bhajans, devotional songs of the OM Sri Alakhpuriji Siddha Peeth Parampara. These bhajans express love for the Divine and the glory of God, offering participants daily inspiration.
The Yoga in Daily Life Summer Retreat at Strilky Ashram is a gathering of wisdom, featuring many esteemed sannyasis, including Swami Gajanand, Swami Parvati, Swami Umapuri, Swami Madhuram Puri, and others, who generously share their knowledge and experience. This year, the retreat is enriched by the presence of Swami Avatar Puriji, who travelled from OM Ashram in India to share his deep understanding of yoga and its science.
Many celebrations have already taken place in Strilky Ashram, in an atmosphere of love, unity and peace, all under the compassionate guidance of Vishwaguruji, who remains connected through video calls from India.
The Yoga in Daily Life Summer Retreat continues to be a source of spiritual growth, community, and inner peace. As participants depart from this enriching experience, they carry with them the wisdom, tranquillity and connections forged in this sacred space, ready to apply them in their daily lives.