Relax & Renew Weekend Testimonials
"I am new to meditation and yoga and I found that the instruction was informative and the experience has paved the way for beginning my lifelong journey."— A.A., Stockton, CA, Nov. 18, 2022
"I’d be happy to write a more in-depth review online later and share it with you!"— DW, Fairfax, CA, Nov. 18, 2022
"The Ananda Relax & Renew retreat was truly magical. The setting & surroundings alone were deeply healing, but the teachers and classes made the weekend extraordinary. Everyone was so welcoming, warm and knowledgeable. I will be coming back for as long as I’m able!"— KMH, Fairfax, CA, Nov. 18, 2022
"Reconnecting with the Divine in myself, in nature, in the practices of yoga / meditation & the compassionate & generous seva of the staff & all who have come before & shared their energy here. Namaste"— JK, Santa Rosa, CA, Nov. 18, 2022
— Debbi Frank, Willits, CA, Nov. 18, 2022"Yes!
The retreat was very inspiring and uplifting! Thank you."
Deepen Your Meditation Testimonials
Ananda is a place that feels like home.— S.L, Sacramento, CA, March 2023
The Ananda Retreat was life changing. I found the missing piece to my puzzle here. They guide you in a way that is encouraging to finding your own true path. In the end, I feel that I did the work and received the answers I was looking for. I highly recommend this extraordinary place!—M.P., Los Gatos CA, March 2023
Susan, Anandi and everyone I met at the Meditation Retreat exude so much peace and really embody qualities I want to cultivate in myself. Everything form the lessons and sessions to the food and décor and gardens is done with so much loving care. The weekend itinerary is well thought out and an invaluable respite from the stresses of everyday life.—G.W., San Francisco, CA, March 2023
Ananda is a place of restoration and peace. It provides a space and energy of self-discovery and healing. I love being surrounded by people so willing to give of themselves for the benefit of helping people raise their vibration and connect with “God”.—K.N, CA, March 2023
Ananda Meditation Retreat center staff are warm and welcoming. The retreat allowed me to slow down and connect deeper to my mind, body and spirit. I’m so grateful to be taking home with me practical techniques and tools to integrate meditation into my daily life.—Anonymous Retreatant, March 2023
Being at Ananda supported my introspective journey to discover my inner spirit and calm outer distractions, to discover the peace and joy within and around me.—JBB, Hercules, CA, March 2023
Seva Yoga Program Testimonials
“Wonderful small community with a balance between spiritual guidance and individual free time.”— Zeke L., Monterey, CA
"In three weeks in the Seva Yoga program, I had more sublime, expansive and revelatory experiences that I have had in most years of my life. This is a magical place with the perfect balance of support and freedom. In addition to meditation, yoga and spiritual explorations, I swam in the south Yuba River, hiked the Buttes and steeped myself in the beauty of this land."— R.H., Massachusetts
“I came to Ananda Meditation Retreat Center because I was looking for a place to volunteer. This volunteer trip, however, turned out to be much, much more than just volunteering my time. Seva is an amazing way to experience the retreat center. Not only do you get a chance to meditate, meet those who are on the path, and be a part of a loving community, but you also get a chance to give back in a very meaningful way.”— Rastika
"I’ve got to thank you for giving me the tools I needed for this chapter of my life. I’m so grateful you helped me grow to be the person I am now, my time at the meditation retreat seriously changed my life in the most amazing way."—Nick
Participating in the Seva Yoga program is a full immersion in the warm embrace of spiritual community. I instantly felt at home, thanks to the kindness, openness, and humbleness of all the beautiful souls who live and serve here. The majestic natural beauty of the physical and energetic environment is profoundly supportive. The energy is peaceful, serene, and uplifted. It is a gift to serve here, and I have grown in my ability to be fully present.— Megan
I appreciate the balance of friendship, work, and service.— Scott
This program exceeded my expectations. The work and free time balance was just right and the staff was very helpful and welcoming. The support here is incredible and I loved the meditations.— Anonymous
The Seva Yoga program was an amazing lifechanging surprise for me. I didn’t really know exactly what to expect. So I went in open to all I could learn about myself. I did come with a desire to get to know myself further and deeper than I already thought I did. I received much more than that. The entire staff was open and willing to help me in every way possible to make me feel welcome and at home. They were there for me every moment that I needed them. Cheerfully and lovingly showing me the ins and outs of retreat living. I stumbled and they lifted me time and again. Every one of them nurturing me along my path of learning who I was. I cried. I laughed. I had proud moments. I had embarrassing moments. I had many, many very deep moments. The heart connections I made are priceless. Mostly the moments of peaceful lovingness on my spiritual path have forever changed my life.— Netti
A program to live with positive, joyful, solution-oriented, and wise people; to learn and experience the true meaning of yoga and meditation— Yingbing
Thank you for all the love, warmth, generosity and experiences I cannot put into words. I have learned so much in this short amount of time and I cannot wait to return to learn more. I share my stories of Ananda with every person I meet and they are speechless at the fact that a place like this is available. It is a gem. I keep thinking to myself “How fortunate am I.”— Nishi
Women's Retreats Testimonials
"The Ananda Meditation Retreat Center is a very special, peaceful and renewing place. I arrived and stepped into a sacred woodland space that is a wonderful environment to support inner work and connection with Source."— Natalie B., Sacramento, CA, Oct7, 2022
— M. Benicia, CA, Oct7, 2022"It is like no other. Nature, awe, depth, sweetness, kindness...
The heart soars beyond the body."
"My first time attending a meditation retreat, and Ananda has made me a true believer in the benefit of yoga and meditation in my life. The staff and all people on the retreat were so welcoming and loving. Will definitely come again."— Neelam Dhesi, Tracy, CA, Oct7, 2022
"My stay here was beautiful, the simplicity, and the energy of all around me helped me to be peaceful & serene during the 2 days here"— VS, Bakersfield, CA, Oct7, 2022
— VA, Stockton, CA, Oct7, 2022"MISSION ACCOMPLISHED"
I visited here with my 74 year old mother and the help, kindness received by all the staff was amazing. I would recommend this place for everyone.
1. "The cabins & rooms were excellent"
2. "High Vibes"
3. "Clean, Calm, Peaceful place"
4. "The lead program supporter and her energy is beautiful."
5. "The gardens have a meaning & purpose."
6. "Food was delicious & scrumptious"
7. "Everyone here is very kind & helpful."
"I loved my stay here. The food was very tasty. I learned the techniques of meditation, which I will try to practice now. The staff was very friendly & helpful. I would come back here with my family."— PS, Stockton, CA, Oct7, 2022
"I am going back home with a calmer mind."— Anonymous, Stockton, CA, Oct7, 2022
"Positive vibes are all over the space, in temples, garden, trails and cottages too."— Sonia W., Stockton, CA, Oct7, 2022
"Beautiful, relaxing, calming experience. Growing experience, thank you."— Kathy M., Hidden Valley Lake CA, Oct7, 2022
"The program has taught me the right way of meditation. I like the peaceful surroundings here. It gives me peace and calmness."— S. India, Oct7, 2022
"Great inspiration to meditate, practice yoga, unplug from the daily activities. It's beautiful, unique, amazing, Blissful, peaceful."— AE. Stockton, CA, Oct7, 2022
Group Retreats Testimonials
— Music Group Attendee , 2022Dear Ananda Meditation Retreat staff, We truly enjoyed our experience at Ananda. The peaceful garden and surrounding forest allowed us to relax and recharge our spirituality, free from distractions. Thank you so much for sharing your sacred space with us and guiding us back into our meditation practice. The Devotion cabin was very cozy and we are very impressed with how well it has been maintained over the years. The secluded and quiet surroundings helped us get some of the best sleep we have had in a looooong time!
Many blessings,
P.S. We woke up with the sun on our last day and enjoyed glimpses of your resident Tanagers.
So Super Duper!— Music Group Attendee , 2022
Blissful, relaxing, filling (delicious food).— Music Group Attendee , 2022
Garden looks super well maintained. Fresh paint is also very nice on various buildings. A very clean bath house, water is clean.— Music Group Attendee , 2022
The garden and flowers were amazing!!— Music Group Attendee , 2022
Loving, restful, nature paradise, High Consciousness, Spirituality felt.— Music Group Attendee , 2022
An absolutely life-changing experience - transformation - Ananda, singing and fellowship. Thank you for your beautiful service.— Music Group Attendee , 2022
A truly lovely experience - the deck was delightful. My only regret is not asking for a guided meditation.— H & A, 2022
Mentored Retreats Testimonials
— J.B. Galt, CA , 2022Ananda Meditation Retreat mentors are wonderful teachers and guides. I think the meditation techniques will become an important part of my life from now on.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Very happy I chose the Mentored Retreat. I knew almost nothing of what meditation truly is! The setting couldn't be more perfect, diminished of unnatural distractions and so encouraging of exploration. I felt my Ananda mentor really listened and cared about my need to be here. I will return!— M.L. Chico, CA. 2022
This Mentored Retreat exceeded my expectations. What a blessing my mentor was during this stay!— B., Aptos, CA, 2022
— CK, Truckee, CA, 2022Ananda Meditation Retreat was exactly what I needed to reconnect to mySelf and put the train back on the tracks. My heart feels full, my mind feels peaceful, and my spirit feels as if she is in the flow again!
I didn't have expectations because I didn't know exactly what I needed when I booked. But i am filled with knowledge and support and learned more than I expected about meditation.
Thank you to my mentor for all her support and encouragement. Thank you Ananda Meditation Retreat for being here. I'll see you again soon!
— L. Livermore, CA, 2022Our mentor was amazing. We enjoyed her company, meditation and everything. There is always more to understand and get out of such a place, but for one visit, it was very good, very encouraging, very refreshing. Thank you
P.S. I am actually planning on coming back with my girlfriends and/or husband, and experience the serenity of this place.
— R.V, from NJ in 2022It was a very serene and calm atmosphere. I am definitely taking home a lot of good thoughts from the time spent here. I loved my mentor. It was really peaceful discussing about spirituality, meditation and Ayurveda with her.
The food was very good, as it was the right kind of food. The rooms were very very clean, and our stay was wonderful because of that. The staff is very pleasant and nice to talk to.
— S.H., Sparks, NV. 2022I tried to come with no expectations, just an open mind. I was in need of rest, not just physical, but mental and emotional rest as well. This place did this for me, even if it was only temporary, it gave me the tools to find my rest in the outside world.
If you are looking for mental and emotional peace this is the place. A chance to unplug from the outside world, detach from the phone. Be with YOURSELF. This is true healing. Even if your stay is short, learn from the people who are here. They have the tools necessary to continue the healing in the outside world.
The Mentored Retreat was just what I had hoped for. I am incredibly glad I made the decision to come here and I will likely be coming back again. My mentor gave me the opportunity to take a step back and reevaluate the way I am living. It has provided me with incredible tools for achieving mindfulness that I will carry with me wherever I go. I am excited for the new beginnings this retreat has opened up for me.— T.T., Dubai, UAE, 2022
Personal Retreats Testimonials
— D. June 15, 2022Thank you!
This has been a soothing space to retreat in solitude and connect with Divine Mother. I appreciate the care and beauty you all nourish on this land. May you have a peaceful summer. ~In gratitude, D.
We feel a centered calmness - thank you in helping to maintain this uplifting, spiritual space.— October, 2022
— October, 2022Sitting in this beautiful cottage, listening to the stillness of the forest, realizing there is nothing else to do, nowhere else to go - just to be.
I really enjoyed the meditation garden with its uplifting energy.
Excellent Retreat- providing all the necessary tools needed.— M.N., Sacramento, CA. Sept. 19, 2020
Ananda Meditation Retreat offers a beautiful sacred spot for those seeking to gain better clarity to their inner words, and disappear for a few days of (from?) the constant chatter of our lives. Ananda brings peace, clarity, and positivity for those wanting to gain better understanding of life, relationships and purpose here on earth.— E.M., Bethesda, MD. Sept. 19, 2020
Amazing experience. Silence is more powerful than any words.— Anchal C., Mountain View, CA. Sept. 19, 2020
Sometimes, we need to be in a very specific environment for us to achieve our goals. If your goals are to find some sense of peace, calm & quiet; reflect; & alone time, the Ananda Meditation Retreat will help you with that.— A.L., San Jose, CA. Sept. 19, 2020
The Ananda Meditation Retreat has uplifting energy. You can feel it the moment you arrive. This place is filled with love, peace and harmony that you can feel from the nature and the people at the retreat. Special mention to the wonderful food! So tasty and nourishing. Thank you for a wonderful experience.— F. P. Palo Alto, CA. Oct. 29, 2020
This place is magical and filled with peace. It’s a place to reconnect with yourself, but also nature. More gifts received than I anticipated.— G,B, Santa Rosa, CA. Oct. 29, 2020
The best meditation retreat in the world! I have been to 4 retreats over the last 5 years and they are nothing short of incredible. If you are looking to learn meditation or deepen your meditation practice, you won’t be disappointed with Ananda! The setting is like nothing you have ever experiences. Magical and heavenly are the best words to describe it.— A.H., Concord, CA. Nov. 2020
During a recent Supported Silent Retreat, I enjoyed a deep study of spiritual literature, guided meditation & related teaching, and the beautiful abundance of nature. It kick-started my spiritual journey.— J.N., Irvine, CA. Nov. 2020
Every time I ‘m lucky enough to adventure out here I feel BLESSED! This is a magical place I wish the world could see.— C.C., Concord, CA. Nov. 2020
Wonderful cabin, food, resources. Beautiful setting, enjoyed the garden. Great support.— R.J. Nov. 2020
Being new in meditation, the Ananda Meditation Retreat has nurtured my practice and has deepened it in ways I wasn’t expecting. I’m filled with gratefulness, and can’t wait to continue my journey with the technique I got.— C., Los Angeles, CA. April 25, 2021
This retreat brought me back to my heart & helped me quiet my mental gymnasium. I spent much of my time here in a space of compassion and gratitude. I appreciated the extended meditation time in the garden visiting statues I resonated with. MC, Sebastopol, CA“A very worthwhile program in a beautiful setting. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in calming down, recharging, and rediscovering what matters.— D.S., Stateline, NV. April 25, 2021
Come! You will thank yourself.— D.P., San Francisco, CA. April 25, 2021
A beautiful retreat under the trees high on a mountain top, where you are able to take in nature and all your surroundings. A place where you can meditate in peace and love. A wonderful experience one must come to enjoy!- GDM, Daly City, CA.. April 25, 2021
A deep, healing experience for the Mind, Body, Soul.— J.R., San Leandro, CA. April 25, 2021
I would highly recommend it to all people looking to step back, go inward & seek more life fulfillment.— L.V.B., Mill Valley, CA. April 25, 2021
My experience at Ananda was rich and inspiring. It was the perfect mix of instruction and guidance, with freedom to explore and grow on your own. The grounds are simply beautiful, the food nourishing and delicious, and the instruction is top notch. Thank you Ananda for the opportunity.— A.H., Walnut Creek, CA. June 24, 2021
I’m from the beautiful Monterey Bay and I love coming to the Ananda Meditation Retreat. I have come on Personal Retreat, The Silent Retreat and Seva Yoga and every moment is transformative.— J.B, Monterey area, CA. June 24, 2021
My silent retreat at Ananda was everything I hoped & more! I look forward to returning!— M J., Folsom, CA. June 24, 2021
This meditation retreat has great potential for healing. I learned many wonderful techniques I can bring home with me and the staff are so friendly and helpful.— K.V.L., Sf, CA. July 15, 2021
Very calming, connecting w/nature, great food, beautiful gardens.— A.S., Tahoe, CA. July 15, 2021
A program to rediscover yourself!!— G.C., Pinole, CA. August 26, 2021
The experience from start to finish was one that I am incredibly grateful for. The kindness of the staff, the beautiful gardens, the accommodations, delicious food and programming nourished me in every way possible. I will return for many more retreats and encourage everyone to participate at least once. The retreat was inspiring, uplifting and restorative.— I., Oakley, CA. August 26, 2021
When I arrived my motivation to seek spiritual awakening was low. As I leave today, I am thrilled to see where my path will go. I have clarity and a sense of peace.— C.W., Fair Oaks, CA. August 26, 2021
It is a great way to be away from your daily life and discover your inner world. Through silence, you find out what is the most important things in your life.— CW, San Francisco, CA. Sept. 5, 2021
Ananda Meditation Retreat is a great place to feel connected to yourself again and spend time in silence. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for more meaning in life.— JS, Sebastopol, CA. Sept. 5, 2021
With things in my life taking a turn, not for the worse, but not the way I wanted, it was by God’s Grace that I came across Ananda Silent Meditation Retreat. Unplugging from my phone, Silence, falling back in love with the Nature surrounding the compound, starting to love myself, to name a few of the benefits received from this retreat. The staff, the cabins, the compound, the food, will exceed any expectations you may have. Shanti, shanti— N.U., Chico, CA. Oct. 9, 2021
I found the area to be thriving with life. While there were times of silence, I truly appreciated the variety and energy of the animals and insects alike. Staying in Peace of Mind cabin was very enjoyable and found an at-home feeling with ease. Thank you! Blessings.— D.N., Auburn, CA. Oct. 9, 2021
Ananda Meditation Retreat exceeded my expectations. Take this 3 nights to turn off your phone and embrace the silence. I have meditated for 20 years and find this specific style of meditation inspiring and effective.— A.P., SF, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
This center is wonderful- special energy, great people, learning by inviting, not telling. I leave with peace and joy and renewed invigoration to make small differences in the world around me. The cabin was perfect and the setting is so beautiful! Thank you for sharing your gifts and your service to others.— N.S., Yuba City, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
My meditation practice has been reinvigorated... I feel better prepared to take on what life throws at me.— Anonymous Oct. 31, 2021
I left Ananda feeling rejuvenated and with new and helpful techniques to meditate and calm my mind.— Eli M., Los Angeles, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
This silent retreat was different than others I’ve done in the number and depth of techniques for relaxing and enjoying meditation, allowing for a more effective ascension into stillness. The grounds are also beautiful and the food awesome.— D., Novato, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
Beautiful and supporting environment to meditate. Healthy vegetarian food. Great cabins & beautiful views.— M.T., Aptos, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
This is the best 3 day vacation you will ever do. Rejuvenating, Revitalizing, Relaxing.— Anonymous, Fremont, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
Ananda provided me with a beautiful, peaceful place to try meditation. Ananda presented meditation in an approachable way, which was so important for a beginner (me).— K.P., Los Angeles, CA. Oct. 31, 2021
Ananda Meditation Retreat was a calming and insightful break from my busy modern life. I feel like this retreat has provided both a mental reset and will help me establish a daily meditation practice.— S.H. Oakland, CA. Dec. 9, 2021
Everything was well communicated: the schedule, directions, what to bring, etc. I felt there was a great balance between structured and unstructured time. I am definitely leaving feeling inspired to incorporate meditation and qualities like peace, joy and compassion into my everyday life.— G.W., San Francisco, CA. Dec. 9, 2021
This experience at Ananda gave my body the chance to recuperate from a busy life with kids and a demanding job. It also taught me the skills and foundation to bring meditation back to my life. The staff were warm and supportive and the retreat location is peaceful and provided everything I needed.— M.C., Belmont, CA. Dec. 9, 2021
Ananda is a beautiful experience. Come with intention and an open mind. Come with thoughts to explore, or come waiting to see what emerges in the silence. The staff are kind, gentle, and accommodating, and the food is delicious. Definitely would have stayed much longer. Thank you all!— L.F., Oakland, CA. Jan. 2022
This is just what I needed, a counterweight to my busy life. Practical tools explained well in a nourishing environment that I can take back into the “real world.”— B., Reno, NV. Jan. 2022
I am an atheist that came in search of peace and quiet, and maybe learn how to meditate a little. I am leaving feeling lighter and in peace. The staff is amazing, lovely and respectful. Their food is delicious, especially the salad dressing. The cabins are very cozy and welcoming. Even though they do not have locks on the doors I felt safe. I am going home feeling recharged for the challenges of life. I really recommend it!— PCAB, Folsom, CA. Jan. 2022
Exactly what I needed. In our busy world it’s hard to take time out for yourself to go inward. This program was a gift to do just that. Everything was served with love…from the talks, meditation classes/experiences to the food and accommodations. I plan on coming back on a quarterly basis if not several times a year…thank you!— J.R.M. Reno/Tahoe, CA. Jan. 2022
— K. February 6 2022Dear Ananda Meditation Retreat Staff,
I want to express my deep gratitude for your Community and Retreat Center. What a beautiful, supportive space to turn inward, with wise and skillful teachings as guidance.
Thank you for all of you efforts to support us this weekend - expecially your skillful and heartfelt teachings of the practice.
The meals were beautiful and nourishing, as are the gardens and the grounds.
May all who visit Ananda embody the kindness, stillness, wisdom and care that your community so generously provides.
Joy is Within You.
