Description
“bhūmir-āpo’nalo vāyuḥ khaṁ mano buddhir-eva ca | ahaṅkāra itīyaṁ me bhinnā prakṛtir-aṣṭadhā || 4 ||
Earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intellect and the ego; make up the eight parts of My material nature.” Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 7 Verse 4
This retreat will focus on the “Five Elements” as taught by Paramahamsa Vishwananda, offering a comprehensive exploration of each of the five elements: air, fire, earth, water and ether and more through a variety of engaging activities.
Each day, we will immerse ourselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Olympos – Antalya region in southern Turkey, connecting deeply with one of the five elements. At each carefully chosen location, the essence of that natural element will guide you in exploring a profound understanding of both material and spiritual reality. The Turkish Sangha has meticulously selected key sites within the spectacular Antalya region to enrich our experience, fostering a deeper connection with the elements through practice and helping us reconnect with the timeless wisdom of our souls.
Under the guidance of Swami Keshava, we will engage in specific daily meditation exercises designed to align with the theme of each element.
These exercises aim to activate and harmonize the elements within us, empowering us to realize our full potential as human beings.
In ancient Vedic philosophy matter is considered part of God’s energy, known as prakriti. Prakriti is divided into eight forms. This is what Lord Krishna explained to Arjuna 5000 years ago in the Bhagavad Gita. Just one material energy extends itself into meridians, shapes, forms, names, and entities from this world and universe.
When there is an imbalance within our body in any of these elements, one doesn’t reach their full potential as a human being. Most illnesses arise from such imbalances. When these elements are in harmony and balance, it leads to abundance, beauty, grace, and wellbeing for oneself and others.
The inspiration to visit this unique region in southern Turkey came from Guruji, Paramahamsa Vishwananda, who encouraged the Turkish Sangha to make a pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Nicholas in Demre. From this initial idea, the concept of holding a Five Elements Retreat in this historically rich area was born.
The region of Olympos is steeped in history, having been home to ancient civilizations including the Romans and Greeks. It also boasts the ancient city of Myra, renowned as the residence of the fourth-century saint and wonderworker, St. Nicholas. His legendary acts of secret gift-giving inspired the folklore of Santa Claus. Guruji often speaks of St. Nicholas as one of his favorite saints.
As a special highlight of our retreat, we will embark on a one-day excursion to trace the footsteps of this extraordinary saint. The journey will include visits to his tomb in Demre, the remains of the ancient city of Myra, and the historic St. Nicholas Church.
The places we will visit during this retreat are:
Air Day: Olympos Antique City/ Ceneviz Castle
Fire Day: Cirali/ Chimera (Yanartas)
Earth Day: Kocain Cave
Water Day: Adrasan Boat tour to Suluada (Watery Island – Turkish Maldives)
Excursion day: Saint Nicholas Church – Tomb of Saint Nicholas and Myra Antique City (where he lived); Boat tour from Ucagiz to Kekova/ Kalekoy
Details
Event dates: May 24 to May 31, 2025
Applications close: February 25, 2025 12:00 am
Notifications will be sent: March 1, 2025
Full payment is due: March 15, 2025
Teacher
Swami Keshava
“Nature has always been very close to my heart. Nature is a great teacher to not only go within but to understand and learn about Oneself and ultimately how to transcend material limitations and restraints. Having had the grace to participate at the 5 Elements retreat given by Paramhamsa Vishwananda several times I´m very honoured to be able to share this incredible knowledge with you and thus I would like to wholeheartedly invite you to come and participate in this retreat.” – Swami Keshava
Swami Keshava has dedicated his life to the study and practice of ancient spiritual teachings of the Hindu tradition. He had the great fortune of meeting his spiritual master Paramahamsa Vishwananda at the tender age of 9, in 2002 and was initiated by Him into the spiritual lineage first as Brahmachari (monk) in 2006, then as a Swami in 2012.
Known for his unique ability to convey complex spiritual concepts in a clear and concise manner, Swami Keshava is making the teachings accessible to people of all backgrounds and experience levels. He is known for his compassionate and supportive approach and his ability to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their spiritual paths.
Included in the price
- 7 nights stay (double/single occupancy) in bungalows holiday village style
- Seminar facilitation by Swami Keshava
- Daily vegetarian meals and water
- Transportation to the different seminar locations during the retreat
- Museum entrance tickets
- A full range of sangha activities
Not included in the price
- Transportation to and from Turkey
- Transportation to and from the port of entry to the seminar location
- Beverages
- Tips
- Insurances (see below for details)
Registration procedure
Please submit your application via the link above.
- Before booking, please confirm that you are able to travel to Turkey.
- Please only register for this event if you are able to pay the full fee of € 1.008/1.215 by 15 March 2025.
Acceptance and Payment Process
- Applications will be reviewed after the registration closing date on 25 February 2025.
- You will be notified of the status of your application via email latest by 1 March 2025.
- If your application is accepted, you will receive payment instructions via email.
- Full payment must be received by March 15 2025 in order to secure your place. If full payment has not been received, we reserve the right to offer your place to someone else from the waiting list.
- You will receive further instructions about location and what to bring after your full payment has been processed.
Health & Safety
All travellers are responsible for their own health and safety during this retreat.
- You must be in good physical and mental health.
- This retreat is not appropriate for physically impaired, disabled, or pregnant travellers.
We highly recommend the purchase of adequate insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances. The following expenses are NOT INCLUDED in the package price:
- Travel health care and accident insurance.​
- Travel cancellation insurance (highly recommended).
Program
- Optional Atma Kriya Yoga and Surya Namaskar practice every morning
- “Five Elements Seminar” – excursions to different nature locations, lecture with Swami Keshava and exercise of the Element Meditations and Mudras
- Lunch picknick
- Afternoon free time, excursions and sangha activities
- Evening quality time in community – experience sharing, singing, chanting and more
Participants
The teachings will be presented in a way that is accessible and applicable to participants of all backgrounds and experience levels, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for personal growth and transformation.
Join like-minded individuals who are committed to deepening their spiritual practice and creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all.
You will have the opportunity to connect with others as well as have a peaceful time for yourself, share experiences, build relationships, experience the incredibly beautiful surrounding of South Turkey and the exquisite Turkish cuisine and much more.
Location & Accommodation
Nestled in stunning natural beauty, our accommodation in Olympos – Kumluca provides a peaceful and rejuvenating setting for spiritual practice and contemplation.
Our accommodation is in a holiday village-style hotel compound, with shared rooms in rustic wooden bungalows, with outdoor and indoor dining and community spaces surrounded by nature.
Olympos in the south of Turkey is known for its picturesque beaches, pristine forests and majestic mountains. The area has a rich history and cultural significance and is home to several important religious and spiritual sites, making it an ideal location for those seeking a deeper connection to their spiritual roots.
Olympos is easily accessible from several major airports in Turkey, making it convenient for individuals travelling from around the world.
For questions please write an e-mail to: krishnaviroopadasi@innerjourney.ch