Yes. Awakened Journey is open to all levels of experience, from those new to meditation to long-time practitioners. The program is designed to gently support each participant wherever they are on their inner journey.

No prior experience is required. All meditations and teachings during the retreat are clearly guided and accessible to newcomers, while still offering depth and richness for experienced practitioners. If you’d like to explore High-Tech Meditation® and the Holistic Lifestyle® approach before attending, you’re welcome to visit synchronicity.org, where you can learn more and download a free High-Tech Meditation® soundtrack.

No. This is a fully immersive 7-day retreat, and partial attendance is not available. The continuity of the week is an important part of the depth and integrity of the experience.

Gurudev Swami Nityananda was raised from birth in an environment of yoga and meditation. His parents were devotees of Bhagavan Nityananda and Baba Muktananda. He was trained from childhood by Baba, and in 1981, Baba declared that Swami Nityananda would succeed him to carry on the lineage. Gurudev learned the various yogic practices, including meditation and Sanskrit chanting, and studied the philosophies of Vedanta and Kashmir Shaivism. In 1987, Swami Nityananda founded Shanti Mandir as a vehicle for continuing his Guru’s work and subsequently established four ashrams. In 1995, at the age of 32, at a traditional ceremony in India, the saints installed him as a Mahamandaleshwar in recognition of his spiritual attainments. His humility, devotion, patience, and acceptance are palpable. His clear English and knowledge of Western culture allow audiences to grasp the traditional Vedic teachings with ease. While carrying the traditional teachings, he makes spirituality a practical part of modern daily reality, guided by the prayer “May all beings be content.”

Immersive retreat environments can occasionally bring forward experiences that feel unfamiliar or strong, especially for those new to this kind of setting. This does not mean something is wrong. Periods of expanded awareness are often followed by a natural phase of integration, where old patterns or ways of understanding may reorganize or fall away. You will be held in a warm, supportive, and nurturing environment throughout the week. Sanctuary’s resident staff are present and available, and guests are encouraged to share what they are experiencing. There is no pressure to have any particular experience or to move faster than feels appropriate.

A Yagna is an ancient Vedic fire ritual performed for purification, harmony, and collective wellbeing. It is a deeply sacred and meditative experience, conducted by Swami Nityananda with Brahmin priests. No prior knowledge is required.

The retreat price* includes all retreat programming, accommodations, and meals. Single and shared options are available. Bathrooms are shared with just one other room and offer complete privacy when in use, with a lockable door. A $100 deposit secures your reservation, and the remaining balance is due two weeks before the retreat.

Accommodation options and pricing:
Sanctuary Lodge – Queen Bed (1 person): $1,590 ($1,431 early registration*)
Sanctuary Lodge – Queen Bed (2 people): $1,590 per person ($1,431 early registration*)
Sanctuary Lodge – Private Room with 2 Twin Beds: $1,590 ($1,431 early registration*)
Sanctuary Lodge – Shared Room with 2 Twin Beds (per person): $1,175 ($1,057.50 early registration*)
Modular Cabin – Private Room with 1 Twin Bed: $1,590 ($1,431 early registration*)

*Early registration prices reflect a 10% discount for registrations completed by March 26, 2027. Standard pricing applies after this date.

The retreat schedule includes dedicated blocks of time for Wellbeing Services, should you choose to book any. These offerings are designed to complement the retreat experience and support integration, wellbeing, and balance. These include various types of bodywork as well as mental and emotional balancing technologies and techniques. We recommend booking in advance, as availability is limited. Learn more on our Wellbeing Services page.

Please note, the retreat schedule will be emailed to you approximately two weeks before the start of the retreat and most Wellbeing Services may not be available for booking until around that same time.

Airport transfers and Wellbeing Services are not included. Helpful travel details and directions can be found on our Guest Information page. Visit our Wellbeing Services page to learn more about our many offerings designed to enhance your retreat experience.

If you have additional questions or would like more guidance, please email us at info@sanctuaryrc.org or visit our Guest Information page for more helpful information.