Programs

Resident Meal Card

Open Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Donation Only

Open Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Raja Yoga (Thursdays)

With Nayaswami Krishna Das

Open Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Living the Principles of Self-Realization (Raja Yoga) Step 2 on the Path of Kriya YogaIn-Person Course – 12 Weeks | Thursdays at 10:30 AM (Before signing up, please inquire when series begins) This uplifting 12-week course offers a practical and experiential journey into Raja Yoga, the royal path of self-mastery and divine realization. Raja Yoga […]

Lessons in Meditation (Tuesdays)

With Peter Kretzmann

Open Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Learn Paramhansa Yogananda's Meditation Techniques Tuesdays, 10:30am--The Expanding Light Retreat (Please inquire when class 1 begins) Learn to meditate deeply and effectively with this weekly, in-person class. Rooted in the ancient teachings of Raja Yoga and the spiritual science of Kriya Yoga as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda, this course offers practical techniques to bring greater […]

Personal Retreat Experience

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Step away from your busy life for a few days; take time to be still and refresh your soul. Come almost any day of the year and stay as long as you like. Our retreat is part of Ananda Village, a cooperative community on the foothills of The Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Karma Yoga Ashram Experience

With Sambhava Burke and Aramati Kuita

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat
Begin a transformative journey with the Ananda Karma Yoga Ashram Program. Based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda, this intentional community offers a unique blend of meditation, joyful service, and spiritual immersion. Establish a daily meditation routine, discover the transformative power of conscious action through service, and delve into Yogananda’s teachings on yoga philosophy. Immerse yourself in Ananda Village, a spiritual community dedicated to living these principles for over 50 years. Your experience includes inspirational classes, daily Sadhanas, shared accommodation, and opportunities for spiritual guidance. Apply now to join a community that wholeheartedly supports your quest for a more enlightened existence.

Guest Lunch Reservation

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Guest Dinner Reservation

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Resident Lunch Reservation

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Resident Dinner Reservation

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Personal Retreat (Family Discount)

Flexible Dates
The Expanding Light Retreat

Take Charge of Your Happiness

With Nayaswami Krishna Das and Peter Kretzmann

January 9 - 11, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Greater joy and inner peace are within your reach, starting right now Does the world consistently disappoint you? Do you sometimes feel like circumstances are stacked against you? Or you just don’t know how to be happy? Do you sometimes wonder if you even deserve to be happy? Here’s the good news: Happiness is not […]

Supported Silent Retreat

With Nayaswami Anandi

January 15 - 18, 2026
The Seclusion Retreat

"Through the portals of silence, the healing sun of wisdom and peace will shine upon you." - Paramhansa Yogananda Experience the nurturing quality of a Silent Retreat in a supportive group environment where you can still your mind and rejuvenate your spirit. Our meditation gardens and wild forest setting provide the perfect backdrop for you […]

Yoga Retreat: Yoga for Renewal

With Shahla Simpler and Hanna Page

January 16 - 18, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Reclaim your inner peace and find deep refreshment with yoga postures, centering breaths, and meditation. You’ll be amazed how restored you’ll feel after two days of focused and deep relaxation time.

Minister's Retreat Brunch, Jan 17th

January 17, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

10:00am Brunch -$15 1:00pm Lunch -$12

How to Have Radiant Health and Vitality

With Bhawani Isaacson and Yogesh Lee

January 23 - 25, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Boost Your Energy and Transform Your Wellbeing  Have you been yearning to transform your lifestyle and health habits, yet feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you ready to achieve greater balance in your life? To creatively and proactively diminish stress? Ignite Your Life Force Many seek to improve health solely through diet, exercise, […]

Essential Attitudes for Success on the Spiritual Path

With Asha Nayaswami

January 29 - February 1, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Discover the Keys to Lasting Success and Fulfillment on Your Spiritual Path Are you seeking clarity on how to experience true success and happiness in your spiritual journey? Or perhaps you're looking to refine your inner approach to align more deeply with your highest aspirations. The real difference, and determining factor, between progress and discouragement […]

Essential Attitudes for Success on the Spiritual Path - Community Member

With Asha Nayaswami

January 29 - February 1, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Spiritually speaking, where are you now? Where are you going? How are you going to get there? The path from confusion and delusion to enlightenment and joy is the same for every soul. Circumstances, relationships, joys and sufferings are unique. But even God-realized masters at one time walked the path we are now travelling, charting […]

The Joy of Vegetarian Cooking

With Cassedi Carlsen and Thomas Smith

January 30 - February 1, 2026
The Seclusion Retreat

“Receive Lord in Thy light the food we eat, for it is Thine. Infuse it with Thy love, Thy energy, Thy life divine.”Food blessing by Swami Kriyananda Joyful Vegetarian Cooking & the Art of Self-Realization Experience the joy of preparing healthy, balanced, and nourishing vegetarian meals inspired by the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. In this […]

Supported Silent Retreat

With Yogesh Lee and Bhawani Isaacson

February 5 - 8, 2026
The Seclusion Retreat

"Through the portals of silence, the healing sun of wisdom and peace will shine upon you." - Paramhansa Yogananda Experience the nurturing quality of a Silent Retreat in a supportive group environment where you can still your mind and rejuvenate your spirit. Our meditation gardens and wild forest setting provide the perfect backdrop for you […]

First Timers' Retreat

With Janaka Keller and Uma Keller

February 6 - 8, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Would You Like To Try Something New? Take a break and spend a weekend at a beautiful yoga and meditation retreat nestled in nature. Rejuvenate in a relaxed and uplifting atmosphere—you’ll be glad you did! If you haven't yet taken a Retreat at the Expanding Light, you're in for a wonderful experience. Come alone, or […]

Inner Renewal Retreat

February 15 - 22, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Kickstart Your Meditation Practice

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke and Darshana Moore

February 26 - March 1, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Discover Calm, Clarity & Daily Spiritual Tools Begin a Practice that Brings You Inner Peace Are you ready to finally experience meditation that actually works for your life? Do you long for inner peace but struggle to quiet your mind or stay consistent with your practice? Would you like to feel more spiritually connected, but […]

Reclaim Your Inner Balance: A Weekend of Healing & Renewal

With Nayaswami Hansa

February 27 - March 1, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Are You Craving More Meaning, Calm, and Clarity? Do you long to feel aligned and alive again—free from the pressure and pace of daily life? This retreat is designed for those who are feeling disconnected, burnt out, or simply ready to feel vibrant from within again. In just one sacred weekend, you'll return to your […]

The Chakras: Practical Spiritual Tools for Self-Realization

With Nayaswami Krishna Das and Peter Kretzmann

March 6 - 8, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Turning Timeless Truths into Daily Practice Regain Your Inner Source of Energy Are you looking for a simple, reliable way to feel more centered, focused, and spiritually aligned in the midst of a busy life? In this retreat, you’ll work directly with your chakras—the vital transfer points between your soul and body that serve as […]

Restorative Yoga Retreat

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke and Uma Keller

March 13 - 15, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

When was the last time you truly relaxed and let go of all tension? How often do you give yourself permission to fully unwind? Maybe it’s time for the deep relaxation you deserve. A Total Relaxation Experience Surrender to Serenity. Let go, effortlessly and naturally, as tension dissolves into tranquility. Gentle tension-releasing yoga poses, experiences […]

Hearts in Harmony: A Retreat for Couples

With Bhawani Isaacson and Yogesh Lee

March 20 - 22, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Return to the Heart of Love and Spirit—Together Are you longing to bring more harmony into your relationship? Do you yearn for deeper connection—not just emotionally, but spiritually? Would you like to learn tools for growing in love while also growing as individuals? This retreat is ideal for couples who are ready to: Recharge emotionally, […]

Keeping Your Aura Strong: Strengthen Your Energy and Spiritual Magnetism

With Nayaswami Krishna Das and Nayaswami Sagar

March 27 - 29, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Recharge Your Life Force and Fortify Your Inner Light Reclaim Spiritual Vitality and Strength Do you ever feel drained by the world around you—or overwhelmed by energies that aren’t your own? Would you like to feel more grounded, radiant, and spiritually protected no matter where you are or who you're with? This retreat is ideal […]

Springtime Sadhana

April 1 - May 4, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Springtime Lunch - Adult

April 1 - May 4, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Springtime Lunch - Child

April 1 - May 4, 2026
The Expanding Light Reteat

Springtime Med Class

April 1 - May 4, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Yoga Self-Care Retreat for Body, Mind & Spirit

With Meerabai Jackson and Gayatri Kretzmann

April 10 - 12, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Unplug, Slow Down, and Rediscover the Joy of True Self-Care BONUS: Included is a visit to the world-renowned Crystal Hermitage Gardens in peak Tulip Season. 20,000 tulips await you!   Are You Longing for a Reset That Nourishes You—Body, Mind & Soul? Are you longing to find more balance and inner harmony? To create a […]

A Magical Tulip Experience

With Sundara Traymar and Nandadevi Traymar

April 24 - 26, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Re-inspire, Relax, and Rejuvenate Your Life Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Beauty The powerful healing, nurturing energy of thousands of flowers, everywhere you look, exceeds the imagination of what can happen inside of you during a weekend immersed in this bountiful beauty. Add an inspired program with experienced hosts and long-time gardeners: experiential nature activities and […]

Forest Bathing and Flower Gazing for Inner Peace

With Nayaswami Krishna Das LoCicero

May 1 - 3, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

A Full Immersion Retreat into the Enjoyment and Bliss of Nature BONUS: as part of the retreat week-end you will visit the world-renowned Crystal Hermitage Gardens during Tulip Season. 20,000 tulips await you! Reconnect with yourself in the quiet and dynamic beauty of trees and blossoms Do you need to step out of your busy […]

Living with Ease: Yoga & Med for Graceful Aging and Vitality

With Nayaswami Hansa

May 3 - 8, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

BONUS: as part of the retreat you will visit the world-renowned Crystal Hermitage Gardens during Tulip Season. 20,000 tulips await you! Simple Practices for Living with Vitality and Joy  What if your later years of life could be lived with greater ease—marked by clarity, inner freedom, and joy? As life naturally simplifies, many of us […]

Yoga Retreat: A Mother's Day Special

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke and Hanna Page

May 8 - 10, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Special Offer!Mothers with their daughters or sons enjoy 15% off eachOr bring a friend new to The Expanding Light, and you both receive 15% off on your stay Make This Mother's Day Unforgettable!
 Give the extraordinary gift of love, wellness, and connection, with a Mother’s Day Yoga Retreat. Share precious moments while indulging in relaxation, […]

Yoga and the 12 Steps© Focus on Steps 1-3

With Vivekadevi Noh-Kuhn

May 14 - 17, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Walking in the Sunlight of Spirit Bringing Together The Teachings of Yoga with The Spiritual Principles of The 12 Steps Join us for an inspiring weekend retreat exploring the underlying principles of yoga and the 12 Steps and how these can be utilized to nourish and cultivate a rich inner life. We will have a broader […]

First Timers' Retreat

With Nayaswami Mantradevi and Nayaswami Krishna Das LoCicero

May 22 - 24, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Would You Like To Try Something New? Take a break and spend a weekend at a beautiful yoga and meditation retreat nestled in nature. Rejuvenate in a relaxed and uplifting atmosphere—you’ll be glad you did! If you haven't yet taken a Retreat at the Expanding Light, you're in for a wonderful experience. Come alone, or […]

Kickstart Your Meditation Practice

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke and Darshana Moore

June 4 - 7, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Discover Calm, Clarity & Daily Spiritual Tools Begin a Practice that Brings You Inner Peace Are you ready to finally experience meditation that actually works for your life? Do you long for inner peace but struggle to quiet your mind or stay consistent with your practice? Would you like to feel more spiritually connected, but […]

Relax, Rejuvenate, and Restore!

With Shahla Simpler and Vidya Wells

June 5 - 7, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Take a Break, Recharge Your Spirit Feeling stressed or tired? Experience the transformative power of a weekend dedicated to Yoga asanas, meditation, and nourishing food. Let the serenity of Ananda Yoga® and the guidance of experienced teachers revitalize your mind, body, and soul. Why Choose This Yoga Retreat: Ananda Yoga® Postures: Release tension from your […]

Swami Kriyananda's Centennial Celebration - Expanding Light & Gaia House

June 21 - 28, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Swami Kriyananda's Centennial Celebration - Shady Creek

June 21 - 28, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Swami Kriyananda's Centennial Celebration - Ananda Village Camping

June 21 - 28, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Swami Kriyananda's Centennial Celebration - Family Camping

June 21 - 28, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Swami Kriyananda's Centennial Celebration - Event Package Only

June 21 - 28, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Swami Kriyananda's Centennial Celebration - India Contingency

June 21 - 28, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Yoga Getaway - Energize Your Summer

With Hanna Page and Shahla Simpler

July 3 - 5, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Awaken Your Inner Energy with a Yoga Getaway! This weekend will be a mini-vacation plus, that will refresh and relax you, blending yoga postures, meditation, a pool party, delicious food, new friendships, personal time, and inspiring moments that will make your summer truly come alive. Experience the Holistic Benefits of Ananda Yoga: Awaken Your Inner […]

First Timers' Retreat

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke, Sambhava Burke and Nayaswami Hansa

July 3 - 5, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Would You Like To Try Something New? Take a break and spend a weekend at a beautiful yoga and meditation retreat nestled in nature. Rejuvenate in a relaxed and uplifting atmosphere—you’ll be glad you did! If you haven't yet taken a Retreat at the Expanding Light, you're in for a wonderful experience. Come alone, or […]

Family Yoga Camp Retreat

With Gayatri Kretzmann, Irene Schulman and Matthew Fredrickson

July 22 - 26, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Join our 5-day retreat for families seeking an uplifting summer experience! Come play, learn, and relax with other conscious, yoga-loving parents and families Our annual Family Yoga Retreat at Ananda Village, for families with kids of all ages, will be hosted at The Expanding Light Retreat! Led by Education for Life teachers and community residents: […]

Yoga Sutras: Demystifying Patanjali

With Nayaswami Sagar and Saiganesh

July 30 - August 2, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Journey into Oneness: A Practical Experience of the Yoga Sutras Ancient Teachings for a Modern Lifestyle Are you longing to take a leap forward on your spiritual path? Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras can help you accomplish that! They offer timeless wisdom to guide you. These ancient teachings from the rishis hold practical answers to life’s challenges—even […]

Taking Kriya for the First Time

With Devalila Veenhof

August 6 - 9, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

To attend this program one must have completed the first four steps of the The Path of Kriya Yoga and received approval from Ananda Kriya Sangha. Contact Devalila at Ananda Kriya Sangha for more information and approval. Once permission has been given, you'll be able to register online or by phoning 800-346-5350. This retreat is […]

Taking Kriya for the First Time

With Devalila Veenhof

August 6 - 9, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

To attend this program one must have completed the first four steps of the The Path of Kriya Yoga and received approval from Ananda Kriya Sangha. Contact Devalila at Ananda Kriya Sangha for more information and approval. Once permission has been given, you'll be able to register online or by phoning 800-346-5350. This retreat is […]

Take Charge of Your Happiness

With Bhawani Isaacson and Yogesh Lee

August 7 - 9, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Greater joy and inner peace are within your reach, starting right now Does the world consistently disappoint you? Do you sometimes feel like circumstances are stacked against you? Or you just don’t know how to be happy? Do you sometimes wonder if you even deserve to be happy? Here’s the good news: Happiness is not […]

Yoga for the Chakras

With Bhawani Isaacson and Shahla Simpler

August 21 - 23, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Awaken Your Energy to its Fullest Potential Within your astral spine lie the seven energy centers, the chakras—a pathway for energy to flow either outward through the senses and activities or inward and upward for spiritual awakening and personal growth. Retreat Highlights: Explore Each Chakra: Understand the unique qualities of each chakra and learn how […]

Bhagavad Gita Retreat

With Nayaswami Sagar

August 27 - 30, 2026

Tap into the Universal and Highly Practical Spiritual Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita Take your spiritual life into an entirely new dimension as you unlock the secrets of this powerful scripture. This weekend retreat will take you into the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita in ways that will help you understand them not only intellectually, […]

Kickstart Your Meditation Practice

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke and Sambhava Burke

September 3 - 6, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Discover Calm, Clarity & Daily Spiritual Tools Begin a Practice that Brings You Inner Peace Are you ready to finally experience meditation that actually works for your life? Do you long for inner peace but struggle to quiet your mind or stay consistent with your practice? Would you like to feel more spiritually connected, but […]

First Timers' Retreat

With Sundara Traymar and Nandadevi Traymar

September 4 - 6, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Would You Like To Try Something New? Take a break and spend a weekend at a beautiful yoga and meditation retreat nestled in nature. Rejuvenate in a relaxed and uplifting atmosphere—you’ll be glad you did! If you haven't yet taken a Retreat at the Expanding Light, you're in for a wonderful experience. Come alone, or […]

Yoga Retreat- Fall Into Relaxation

With Shahla Simpler and Vidya Wells

September 18 - 20, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

A Self-care Retreat for Body, Mind & Soul Journey to Peace, Clarity, and Balance Do you find that your nervous system is often in a state of overdrive—constantly wired, never fully rested? Are you yearning for a real break—one that helps you reconnect with your true self, away from the noise and pressure of everyday […]

Kriyaban Retreat

With Devalila Veenhof

October 1 - 4, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

This special weekend can transform and permanently uplift your Kriya Yoga practice. NOTE: The Kriyaban Retreat is for those who have already been initiated into the Kriya Yoga Technique through Ananda Kriya Sangha, or are approved to receive Kriya for the first time. For more information on initiation, see Learn Kriya Yoga. During this retreat, […]

Restorative Yoga Retreat

With Anjali Kirsch-Burke and Gayatri Kretzmann

October 9 - 11, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

When was the last time you truly relaxed and let go of all tension? How often do you give yourself permission to fully unwind? Maybe it’s time for the deep relaxation you deserve. A Total Relaxation Experience Surrender to Serenity. Let go, effortlessly and naturally, as tension dissolves into tranquility. Gentle tension-releasing yoga poses, experiences […]

Yoga and the 12 Steps© Retreat

With Vivekadevi Noh-Kuhn

October 14 - 18, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Cultivating Inner Communion Bringing Together the Teachings of Yoga with the Spiritual Principles of the 12 Steps This inspiring weekend retreat will specifically explore the 11th Step of the 12 Steps program. The focus is on deepening your personal relationship with the Divine (Higher Power.) Explore practices of prayer and meditation – from both traditions […]

Sacred Nature: Discover the Stillness in Nature and in You

With Sundara Traymar

October 23 - 25, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

A Nature Immersion Retreat for Deep Rest and Renewal  This is a Family Friendly retreat* Nature: The Greatest Healer of All Does your life sometimes feel like you have hardly any time to simply breathe and reconnect? Have you wondered why you are drawn to being in nature and seeking out her beauty? Is it […]

Spiritualize Your Life

With Bhawani Isaacson and Yogesh Lee

October 23 - 25, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Harness the Power of Spiritual Living Have you been longing for more meaning in your life? Do you sometimes feel something is missing — yet you can't quite name it? There comes a moment when we sense that life is meant to be more—more alive, more meaningful, more deeply fulfilling. When we approach life with […]

First Timers' Retreat

With Bhawani Isaacson and Yogesh Lee

October 30 - November 1, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Would You Like To Try Something New? Take a break and spend a weekend at a beautiful yoga and meditation retreat nestled in nature. Rejuvenate in a relaxed and uplifting atmosphere—you’ll be glad you did! If you haven't yet taken a Retreat at the Expanding Light, you're in for a wonderful experience. Come alone, or […]

The Spiritual Eye Retreat—Doorway to Inner Vision

With Nayaswami Sagar and Sundara Traymar

November 6 - 8, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Are you interested in exploring the Spiritual Eye and unlocking its transformative power? Have you been curious about what lies beyond the Spiritual Eye or wondered how awakening your Spiritual Eye could change your life? What does it truly mean when you see a light during meditation? It may be time for you to learn […]

Yoga Retreat: Awakening the Heart’s Gratitude Copy

With Shahla Simpler and Vidya Wells

November 27 - 29, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

A Spiritual Celebration of Gratefulness As autumn brings with it a sense of gratitude, does your heart yearn for an experience that relaxes your body and nourishes your soul? Experience a yoga retreat that rejuvenates your body, calms your mind and offers a variety of uplifting spiritual activities. Allow your whole self to be cradled […]

Taking Kriya for the First Time

With Devalila Veenhof

December 3 - 6, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

To attend this program one must have completed the first four steps of the The Path of Kriya Yoga and received approval from Ananda Kriya Sangha. Contact Devalila at Ananda Kriya Sangha for more information and approval. Once permission has been given, you'll be able to register online or by phoning 800-346-5350. This retreat is […]

A Christmas of Inner Awakening

With Nayaswami Krishna Das and Nayaswami Sagar

December 10 - 13, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Dive deep into the Spirit of Christmas  Take time away from the hustle-bustle of the Christmas season and tune into the true meaning of the season. Spiritualize your Christmas season and reconnect with your spiritual aspirations. Experience the feelings of peace, divine love and joy that you can find at Ananda. Access the heart of […]

Christ’s Light in Every Heart: Family Christ Celebration

With Gayatri Kretzmann, Matthew Fredrickson and Irene Schulman

December 11 - 13, 2026
The Expanding Light Retreat

Celebrate the True Spirit of Christmas — Together as a Family A Heartfelt Holiday Retreat at Ananda Village This Christmas season, take a needed pause with your family from the holiday rush. Enter into this sacred time of year by celebrating and honoring the true spirit of the season, creating lasting memories and offering meaningful […]

New Year's Retreat

With Nayaswami Krishna Das and Peter Kretzmann

December 28, 2026 - January 1, 2027
The Expanding Light Retreat

Are you yearning to break out of old patterns and become the person you've always aspired to be? It's time to unlock your storehouse of inner peace, bring in radiant clarity and vibrant joy as you step into the new year! Refocus Your Life, Recharge Your Mind and Relax Your Body Leave behind the ho-hum […]