5 powerful lessons I learned staying in an ashram

Gyan Sarovar

When I embarked on a trip to Gyan Sarovar in Mount Abu, I wasn't just looking for a vacation; I was seeking a transformative experience. Located in the tranquil Aravalli Range, Gyan Sarovar, which translates to "Lake of Knowledge," is a spiritual sanctuary that invites visitors on a journey of self-discovery through innovative retreats and meditation sessions. My stay there taught me invaluable lessons that I carry with me, providing clarity and peace in my daily life.

Picture this: the sun shines brightly, casting a perfect shade of green across the landscape, breathing life into every plant. Suddenly, the sun gives way to clouds, bringing rhythmic rainfall over gentle hills. Butterflies flutter from flower to flower, embodying the nurturing essence of Mother Nature. Every soul around you smiles genuinely, a stark contrast to the often superficial smiles seen on social media. It felt like a utopia, a place too good to be true, yet it exists right here on Earth.

In April, during my annual leave, I chose a different kind of trip. Instead of opting for a luxurious getaway filled with the modern comforts we already enjoy in Dubai, I sought a place where I could disconnect from the constant buzz of technology and reconnect with myself. As a writer, I believe that the art of disconnection is crucial. Staying constantly plugged in clouds your perspective, making it difficult to see clearly.

Meditation has been my go-to method for recharging my inner battery. Much like we plug in our phones to recharge, meditation revitalizes me. The opportunity to immerse myself in a meditative retreat at Gyan Sarovar was one I couldn't pass up. Nestled in the only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu, this retreat offered a refreshing escape from the arid landscapes of the state. Its lush greenery and cool climate provided the perfect backdrop for introspection and self-discovery.

Here are five powerful lessons I learned during my stay at the ashram:

Power of Silence

Upon arriving at Gyan Sarovar, the profound impact of silence was immediately evident. Often, silence is perceived as uncomfortable or even deafening, but at the ashram, it was both powerful and peaceful. The day began with "Amrit Vela," a meditation session held just before dawn, between 4:00 and 4:45 AM. Initially, this early start seemed daunting, but it quickly became a cherished time of day. The stillness and tranquility of the early morning made meditation effortless and instinctive. Even for beginners, the guided sessions were accessible, teaching the principles of Rajyoga meditation to help rediscover inner talents and values.

Power of Spending Time with Yourself

In our daily lives, we often neglect our inner voice, leading to confusion when making important decisions. At the retreat, we were encouraged to communicate with ourselves, uncovering the forgotten superpowers of love, peace, happiness, and kindness. This introspection helped clarify what gives us energy and what drains it, equipping us to better handle everyday stressors. The retreat fostered a deep connection with our inner selves, reigniting our ability to use these superpowers in daily life.

Power of Service

Throughout the campus, we were met with smiles and kindness from everyone, reflecting qualities of love, peace, and joy. The selfless service of the staff and volunteers was heartwarming and inspiring. Their dedication reminded me of the joy that comes from giving without expecting anything in return. This experience instilled in me the habit of smiling more, even to strangers, and highlighted the rarity of genuine happiness in our busy lives.

Power of Simplicity

Life at the ashram emphasized simplicity, offering a stark contrast to the materialistic pursuits of urban living. The experience showed me how little we truly need to be happy. Meaningful connections with others became the focus, rather than material wealth. The Sattvic food served at the ashram, based on purity and clarity, also had a significant impact on my well-being. Made from fresh, natural ingredients, these meals were gentle on the stomach and promoted optimal health.

Power of Surrender

The culmination of these lessons led to the most important one: the power of surrender. Stress and fear are vibrations we often tune into in our daily lives, but at the ashram, the vibrations of happiness, love, and peace were ever-present. Learning to surrender to these positive vibrations and view life as a play allowed me to connect to the 'right' channels of experience. This shift in perspective reminded me that we have the power to choose our vibrations and frequencies.

After the four-day retreat, I was reluctant to leave this place that had brought me so much peace. I extended my stay, moving to another campus called Shantivan at the foothills of the Aravalli Range, further deepening my understanding of the ashram's operations. As I mentally planned my return to this haven of tranquility, I left with a renewed sense of self and a profound appreciation for the lessons learned.

Gyan Sarovar is more than a retreat; it's a journey into the depths of your being, offering practical tools for living a balanced and fulfilling life. These lessons of silence, self-reflection, service, simplicity, and surrender continue to guide me, bringing clarity and joy to my everyday existence.