India is calling: A Deep Spiritual Retreat During Maha Shivaratri 2026

From February 9th to 21st, 2026, I’ll be in South India for something quite special—a small, immersive retreat designed around one of the most significant nights in the yogic calendar: Maha Shivaratri.

This isn’t a typical group trip or sightseeing tour. It’s something much more intentional and intimate. The retreat takes place in Tiruvannamalai, a powerful spiritual hub at the foot of Arunachala, and ends in Pondicherry, a city known for its blend of Indian and French heritage—and its connection to Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.

What the Retreat Is About

The entire journey is built around cosmic timing and ancient traditions. The highlights include:

• Maha Shivaratri: A barefoot walk around sacred Arunachala during the night—something I’ve long wanted to experience. It’s meant to be a powerful moment of stillness, observation, and inner shift.
• Temple Rituals: Including a special Pradosham puja at a quiet village temple and visits to Arunachaleswarar and other less-frequented places of worship.
• New Moon Quietude: A pause in the middle of the retreat to align with the silence and depth the new moon invites.
• Walks to Sacred Caves: Meditative hikes to places where Ramana Maharshi once lived—Skandasramam and Virupaksha Cave.
• Sattvic Living: A slower pace, nourishing food, and traditional practices that support clarity and grounded energy.
• Traditional Healing: I’ll also be experiencing Siddha medicine, varma therapy, and massage sessions rooted in Tamil healing wisdom.
• Kirtan & Talks: There's an evening of devotional chanting and a conversation with a local teacher. These are offered spontaneously and based on the group energy.
• Final Days in Pondicherry: After the retreat, we move to Pondicherry for time in Auroville, temple visits, and relaxed exploration.

Why I’m Going

This isn’t just a retreat—it’s an opportunity to reconnect with something deeply human and timeless. I’ve been drawn to the sacred energy of South India for a while, and this felt like the right moment to go. The structure of this retreat—its attention to cosmic rhythms, its simplicity, and the small group size—resonated with how I want to engage with that part of the world: quietly, respectfully, and meaningfully.

It’s also a space to step away from noise and give my attention inward. No lectures, no pressure—just practice, presence, and nature.

What I Intend to Bring Back

I am stepping into this journey in an intentional space of surrender. Surrendered to God and how I am intended to move throughout this journey. I sense this time away will create space—space to reflect, to listen, and to allow.

I’ll likely share parts of the journey—moments, thoughts, maybe even photos—when it feels right. But mostly, I’m going to be present.