Some time ago, Tina from OmLife and I had the joy of leading a Yoga Beyond the Mat retreat at the beautiful Waterperry House in Oxford.
Surrounded by peaceful gardens and the stillness of nature, it felt like the perfect setting to slow down and reconnect.
The retreat was intentionally kept small.
In a world that often moves too quickly, we wanted to create space for deeper conversations, meaningful connection and the opportunity to explore timeless wisdom alongside the transformative power of kirtan.
And that’s exactly what unfolded.
There was something beautiful about watching people arrive with so many things on their minds and gradually settle into a different rhythm.
The conversations became more open.
The laughter more effortless.
The chanting more heartfelt.
By the end of the retreat, there was a genuine sense of upliftment and connection that is difficult to put into words.
One verse from the Bhagavad Gita felt especially fitting:
“One whose happiness is within, who is active and rejoices within, and whose aim is inward, is actually the perfect mystic.”
— Bhagavad Gita 5.24
Perhaps that’s what those few days were really about.
Not constantly seeking something outside ourselves.
But creating enough space to reconnect with the peace, wisdom and joy that can become hidden beneath the noise of everyday life.
It also reminded me that retreats are never only about those who come to learn.
As facilitators, we leave enriched too.
The openness.
The reflections.
The questions.
The conversations.
The willingness to step away from the usual rhythm and explore something deeper.
All of it creates an experience that everyone contributes to.
And perhaps that is one of the most valuable things about stepping away for a few days.
Not escaping life.
But creating enough distance from the usual noise to see life a little more clearly.
Because sometimes we don’t need to escape life.
We simply need to step back long enough to remember what truly matters.
Jagannātha Dās
Come and Experience It
If these reflections resonate with you, why not come and experience kirtan for yourself?
Every Friday, we come together at OMNOM Birmingham for an evening of mantra, music, meditation and community. I also share kirtan at retreats, festivals and gatherings throughout the year.
Whether you’ve experienced kirtan many times or you’re completely new, you’re warmly welcome.
See all upcoming events:
https://jagannathadas.com/events
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