2026 Retreats

Let Your Authentic Self Emerge

Satya, the yogic principle of truthfulness, invites us to align our words, thoughts, and actions with what is real and deeply authentic. Yet being honest with ourselves can sometimes be challenging. We may find ourselves navigating loss, resisting change, or minimizing our unique gifts to meet external expectations.

This retreat offers a supportive space to reconnect with your inner truth and gently release the fears that keep you from fully expressing who you are. Through movement, stillness, and reflection, you’ll cultivate awareness, acceptance, and the courage to live more authentically.

The Himalayan Institute, located in the Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania, is a beautiful, restful retreat center with amazing views, peaceful spaces for contemplation and delicious, nourishing meals. It is located approximately four hours from Buffalo. See below for some photos.

What to Expect

Somatic movement practices to release tension and restore the nervous system

Restorative yoga and yoga nidra to deepen relaxation and create space for acceptance

Slow flow yoga to strengthen the body while connecting breath and awareness

Mindfulness sessions including breathwork, body scans, emotional awareness, and contemplative journaling

Group discussion on embodying satya in everyday life

Guided mindful hike (optional) integrating movement, breath, and sensory awareness

Book-club style discussion (optional): Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman*

*Purchasing and reading the book is completely optional. Participants are responsible for purchasing/borrowing the book. Buffalo locals can purchase the book at Merit Badge Books, 276 Buffalo St., Hamburg – they are holding several copies for retreat participants! You can also purchase the book at bookshop.org by clicking on the book title above or following this link to my book list. If you make a purchase using these links, I may receive a commission.

View the retreat schedule here (subject to change)

View Frequently Asked Questions here

Included in your Accommodations At the Himalayan Institute

Simple, comfortable, quiet accommodations conducive to a peaceful stay

3 delicious, nutritious, and hearty vegetarian meals daily

Complimentary daily yoga classes taught by HI staff

Access to the Sri Vidya Meditation Shrine located at the heart of the Retreat Center’s campus

A tour of Moka Origins, a mission-driven chocolate and coffee factory nestled on the Retreat Center’s campus

Sacred Grove Cafe, featuring Moka coffee and other treats

Tea lounge with unlimited hot tea beverages

Complimentary Internet access

400-acre wooded campus of the Retreat Center, including Sunset Pond, Sound of Music Hill, and forest pavilion

Access to four groomed, forested hiking trails to experience the beauty of the Poconos

The MarketPlace Bookstore and Giftshop

PureRejuv Wellness Center for an add-on massage or wellness service

How to register:

Step 1: Click here to reserve your spot and pay tuition

Step 2: After your payment is processed, return to the Himalayan Institute website to select and pay for your accommodations. There are several different types of accommodations to choose from, at different price points. Click this link to view and select accommodations, or call the Himalayan Institute at 800-822-4547 x1 to make your arrangements.

Step 3: You will receive a welcome email from [email protected] within 24-48 hours.

Refund & Cancellation Policy – Registered participants who cancel before August 28, 2026 (7 days before the event) will receive a full refund. Participants who cancel between August 28 and September 3, 2026 will receive a 50% refund. Participants who cancel on September 4, 2026, no show or leave the event early will not receive a refund. Please be aware that your accommodations at the Himalayan Institute must be cancelled separately by calling 800-822-4547 x1 . The Himalayan Institute may have other cancellation and refund policies in place. Please contact HI directly for details.