India Retreat 2024

Rikhiapeeth Ashram, India

The Tattwa Shuddhi course will be led by Swami Karma Karuna under the direct guidance of Swami Satyasangananda Saraswati, the Peethadhishwari of Rikhiapeeth Ashram.

Tattwa Shuddhi is a dynamic meditation rooted in the Tantric Tradition. It is designed to cleanse and harmonize the tattwas or elements within the practitioner’s body. The process involves asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), the chakras (energy centres), mantras (sacred sounds), yantras (geometrical forms) and meditations. The course will also include theory and offer a well-balanced approach with practical applications for your daily life.

The word tattwa denotes the different principles or factors which comprise our embodied personality. Tattwa also signifies ‘that-ness’ and refers to the Reality which underlies our embodiment. The five fundamental elements that constitute the human body and the universe are Earth (Prithvi), Water (Apas), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Ether/Space (Akasha).

The word shuddhi literally means ‘purification’, but in the context of the practice we can understand the word to mean ‘exploration’. Therefore, Tattwa Shuddhi can be translated as a practice or exploration of the different dimensions of our existence to reveal what we are in Essence.

Retreat participants will be introduced, step by step, to the different facets and stages of Tattwa Shuddhi. It is a process of exploring, refining and expanding the idea of who we are by dissolving the imbalanced facets of the mind and unconscious conditioning which keep us locked in unhealthy patterns of being. The practice leads one to the stillness within, bringing clarity of mind, and receptivity; opening the practitioner up to the fullest potential.

The course is held in a traditional ashram environment offering integration into ashram life programs such as special rituals, chanting and seva (selfless service).

Option 1: Diwali: Festival of Lights Celebration & Tattwa Shuddhi Sadhana ~18 nights
29th October – 15th November

About Sat Chandi Mahayajna – Celebrating God as the Mother 

Goddess Chandi, a form of Durga, is said to be the remover of negativity from the world. She represents the universe itself. This energy is invokedto dispel the negative forces that limit and contract us so that we may be fully open to the experience of abundance. This 5 day yajna celebration is dedicated to the Cosmic energy, Shakti, and holds the greatest significance in terms of the history and tradition of Rikhiapeeth. Started in 1995, the Sat Chandi Mahayajna became a means of reaching out to countless families from the surrounding villages; to spread the blessings of peace, plenty and prosperity in each home and family. Participating in the distribution prasad to thousands of villagers over the 5 days is the highlight of this festival.

About Ashram Life