When the new moon disappears from the sky, the world grows hushed. The tides become still, and even the earth seems to slow down. In this darkness, we feel called to turn inward. The sages of old revered the new moon night as a spiritual gateway — a time when the soul could slip past the grip of the ego and merge into the vast ocean of the Divine.
Sometimes this night aligns with Diwali, the festival of divine illumination. When that happens, we are reminded to celebrate not the outward glitter, but the inner gold — the hidden radiance of the soul, a light that shines from within even on the darkest night. At Still Mountain Wellness Retreat, in the serene forests of the Sierra Nevada, we honor this profound time.
Let the new moon not frighten you with her emptiness. Let her remind you that in the deepest dark, the light of Lakshmi is planted.
Lakshmi Puja: The ritual will not be observed as a spectator — you will become an active participant. The presence of Goddess Lakshmi will manifest before you as an energetic current. The practice of prayer with flowers, incense, and flame will help you seek true prosperity: wisdom, peace, and purpose.
Daily Yoga, Breathwork & Meditation: Return to your body daily through practices of gentle yoga asanas followed by powerful pranayama and guided meditations. Through these practices your nervous system finds calm while emotional blocks clear and your connection to inner stillness strengthens.
Mantra Chanting for Clarity & Abundance: Your voice becomes a sacred vessel. Our group chanting sessions will teach you to recite ancient mantras for health, spiritual wealth, and clarity. The vibrations activate dormant parts of your being while creating divine energy pathways that bring flow into your life.
Sattvic Cooking & Diwali Food Rituals: Our retreat kitchen invites you to discover sattvic cooking techniques based on Ayurvedic principles. Together we will make nourishing vegetarian Diwali meals containing healing herbs and traditional spices. Food as prayer.
Forest Meditation & Walking in Nature: The area around our retreat center offers walking paths through sacred forests and ancient giant Sequoia trees. Forest bathing with mindful walking helps you let go while establishing a sense of grounding. Come also to learn and create Rangoli — the ancient Indian art form of drawing patterns with colored powders and flower petals.
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What's Included
FAQ
Our retreat is an inclusive space that warmly welcomes individuals of all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures. These teachings and practices are universal and designed for all sincere seekers. We invite friends of every tradition to join us in celebrating Diwali—a festival of light, hope, and renewal. You do not need to follow any specific faith to attend; we simply invite you to participate in an evening of traditional prayers, music, delicious food, and fellowship. Guests are encouraged to engage at their own comfort level or simply relax and enjoy the celebration with our community.
Embrace the artistic and spiritual tradition of Rangoli during our retreat. This meditative practice involves creating intricate, vibrant patterns on the ground using colored powders, rice flour, or flower petals. More than just a beautiful display, crafting Rangoli is a sacred act of welcoming prosperity and joy into our space. As we prepare for Diwali, these patterns serve as a profound symbol of good fortune and the eternal victory of light over darkness, offering a peaceful, creative way to ground your energy and welcome beauty into your daily life.
Making rangoli together also offers a simple way for people of all faiths to join the Diwali celebration.
Nourish your body with wholesome, organic, vegan meals prepared according to Ayurvedic Sattvic principles. Your retreat includes all meals, starting with dinner on Day 1 through lunch on Day 4. In celebration of Diwali, enjoy freshly prepared, festive dishes designed to support your spiritual renewal and vitality.
Comfortable clothing for movement, a journal, layers for cool November evenings, and personal toiletries. A packing list is sent upon registration.
Yes. Work trade and financial assistance are available for this retreat. No one will be turned away. Please contact us to discuss options.
