FAMILY & KIDS GATHERING

AT ANANDA VIPLAVA

Sat, 21 Aug - Sun, 23 Aug, 2026

Namaskar dear families,

We are looking forward to gathering with you again this year for our annual Family & Kids Retreat. This retreat is a special opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and create meaningful experiences together as families.

✨ Purpose of the Retreat

This retreat is designed to create a supportive and nurturing environment where children can be gently introduced to spiritual practices while connecting with a mindful and caring community. At the same time, parents are invited to deepen their own sense of balance, presence, and connection.

Our program is centered around developing harmony and balance in three key aspects of life: physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

What to Expect

1. Physical Activities

We will nurture the body through:

• Movement activities for kids and adults
• Nature hike
• Yoga and Tai Chi sessions (for both children and parents)
• Swimming and picnic time at Lake Taghkanic State Park (weather permitting) - There is also a playground near the lake where children can play freely, especially those who do not swim.
  

2. Mental & Creative Activities

• Children will have space to express themselves and release tension through:
  
• Painting
  
• Nature-based crafts
  
• Creative group activities
  
• We will also hold a spiritual philosophy session for both children and adults, along with relaxed social time such as gathering around the evening fire pit.
  

3. Spiritual Practices
Together, we will explore simple yet meaningful practices:

• Collective mantra chanting
  
• Group meditation. 
  
• You may see some participants practicing their personal meditation or yoga at certain times during the retreat 
  
• Meditation activities will be guided by experienced yogic monks 
  
• There will also be free time to rest, connect, and allow children to play freely in a safe environment.
  

⚠️ Important Information

• This is a self-service retreat: all participants are expected to help with meal preparation and cleanup (a sign-up sheet will be provided).
  
• This is not a drop-off event: parents are responsible for supervising their children at all times.
  
• The schedule may adjust depending on weather or group needs. Updates will be shared during the retreat.
  
• Please be on time for meals and activities. If you plan to skip any, kindly inform the team.
  
• Only sentient (lacto-vegetarian) food is allowed (no garlic, onions, or mushrooms).
  
• No smoking, alcohol, or drugs are permitted.
  
• Please be mindful, respectful, and kind to everyone in the space.
  

More details will be shared at the beginning of the program.

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothes and shoes
  
• Hiking and swimming gear
  
• Water bottle
  
• Sun hat, sunscreen, bug repellent
  
• Personal items
  
• Picnic blanket, sand toys, or beach equipment   ️
  
• Musical instruments (optional, for sharing)
  

What We Provide

• Full retreat program
  
• Accommodations 
• 6 meals + 2 snack times
  
• Towels, shampoo
  
• Yoga mats
  
• Washing machine and dryer available for a small fee

Contact:

For program details: Rina 347-2241796

For accommodation & fees: Dada Rainjitananda

Register using the options available on the registration sustem. 

The adult price includes the children of that family.All children must be accompanied at least by one parent. 

Schedule (final version provided upon arrival)

Friday
Arrive in the evening
6:00 to 7:00 PM: Kiirtan and meditation

7:00 - 8:00 Dinner
8:00 PM: Story time for children

Saturday
7:30 - 10:00 AM: Kiirtan/meditation and breakfast*

(8:00 AM - youth meditation)

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Opening ceremony

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Children’s yoga 

11:00 AM - 11:15 AM: Fruits/snacks

11:15 AM - 11:45 AM: Soccer game

11:45 - 12:00 PM: Break, half-bath

12:00 - 12:30 PM: Arts and crafts (2 and up)

 12:00 - 12:30 PM: Philosophy class for the youth (7 and up)

12:30 PM - 1:00 PM: Meditation time / Free time
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Drive to lake
2:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Go out swimming!
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Kiirtan/Meditation/Dinner*
7:30 PM Fire Pit/ Singing

Sunday
7:30 - 10:00 AM: Kiirtan/meditation and breakfast*

(8:00 AM - youth meditation)
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Children’s yoga
11:00 AM - 11:15 AM: Fruits/snacks
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Hike & Playtime with bubbles
1:00 PM: Lunch
Closing ceremony and departure

* Food will be available for small children early during meditation times. Parents don’t have to be committed to the exact meal time. Meals will always be prepared with children’s interests in mind. Juice and healthy/tasty snacks will always be available.