Day 12 – 24 January 2025
The final day of the Body, Mind, and Beyond yoga retreat began softly, as voices rose in unison during the morning chants: Guru Stuti, Vishnu Sahasranama, Pratha Smarami Stotram, Devi Mahatmyam Mantra, and the Pranava. The vibrations from the chants felt like a warm embrace, grounding us for the day ahead. At 6:30 a.m, the group gathered for the daily aarti at the Sri Guru Babaji Shrine followed by silent meditation, a moment of collective gratitude and stillness.
Yoga and pranayama followed with a focus on Surya Namaskaras, letting the body flow with the rhythm of breath and the first light of dawn. The practice left everyone feeling steady, refreshed, and open.
After breakfast—simple, delicious pongal and medu vada—we moved into the first session of the day. The Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on pranayama became the focus, offering timeless insights into the union of breath, body, and mind. The session ended with a deep, extended Yoga Nidra practice that left many visibly calm, as if they had touched a space of deep rest they had long forgotten.
During the afternoon some participants offered annadaanam seva to sadhus and pilgrims. Others set out to explore the akhadas, visiting the Juna Akhada and Niranjani Akhada. The chance to speak with and take blessings from itinerant monks and ascetics brought a rare depth to their retreat experience.
As the day waned, everyone gathered for the final Dhuni Pooja. The crackling flames and the simplicity of the ritual felt like a culmination of the past three days. Bhajans followed and the retreat ended with a hearty dinner, shared under the stars—a meal of warmth, stories, and quiet reflection.
Day 3 wasn’t about closure; it was about stepping forward with lightness and clarity. Participants left with a sense of connection—to themselves, to one another, and to something greater.
To contribute to our annadaanam seva, click https://app.satsang-foundation.org/donation/campaign_details/participate-in-annadaanam-seva-at-yogadham-in-mahakumbh.
Join us as we sustain the AkhandDhuni. To donate, please click https://app.satsang-foundation.org/donation/campaign_details/akhand-dhuni-at-yogadham-in-mahakumbh.
To register for the Yoga Retreats or simply experience the profound energy of the MahaKumbh, please write to connect@bharatyogavidyakendra.in.
To explore the details of our events, visit https://mahakumbh2025.satsang.foundation/.
