Serenity Cottage
Serenity Cottage has a full kitchen, full bathroom, two bedrooms, a living room with a lovely fireplace, a covered porch, and easy parking access. The cottage is light, bright, and spacious – a wonderful affirmation of the light-filled nature and expansiveness of a personal retreat.
The Cottage sits on 5 picturesque acres. There are paved areas for walking, grassy tree-lined meadows, two lotus-filled ponds, a fountain with goldfish, and trees that expand upwards to the sky. It is a quiet, private, and sattvic setting. Surely, a gift from the Masters.
Scheduling
Please write to friends@anandawa.org
What's Included?
- Full and private use of Serenity Cottage (Two bedrooms + Living room and full kitchen)
- Access to the surrounding grounds of Heart Song Retreat
- Harmonium for devotional practice
- Desk and writing space for journaling, study, or creative work
- Wi-Fi, television, and a gas fireplace for comfort
- Peaceful solitude in a forested setting
Please Note:
- No food is provided— guests are responsible for their own meals
- No access to Harmony House during your stay
- No housekeeping services during the retreat
- Guests are kindly asked to:
- Refrain from alcohol or drug use on the premises
- Maintain a vegetarian diet throughout the stay
Silent Seclusion at Heart Song Retreat
A spiritual seclusion is more than a retreat; it is a sacred commitment to withdraw from outer distractions and direct one’s full attention inward. Yogananda recommended taking one week of seclusion per year. During this time, the goal is to maintain continuous God-remembrance, free from all worldly contact or responsibilities.
Whether you’re preparing for your first seclusion or returning to deepen your practice, Heart Song Retreat provides a tranquil, supportive environment for inner renewal.
Guidance for Seclusion:
- All personal retreat accommodations apply to seclusions.
- Seclusion traditionally involves no contact with others, including loved ones. (Some couples may choose to seclude together if both are committed to the same intention.)
- Silence and solitude are key — there should be no interaction with other guests or events on the property.
- Avoid all external communication. It is highly recommended to disable all electronic devices, especially phones and messaging apps.
- Listening to inspirational talks or readings on spiritual subjects is welcome — just be mindful not to fall into distraction or passive consumption.
- Let family, friends, and coworkers know in advance that you will be completely unavailable during your seclusion.
- As with personal retreats, no food is provided. Plan and prepare all meals in advance to avoid needing to leave or interact.
- You are welcome to spend time outdoors during your seclusion. The grounds around the Serenity Cottage offer peace and privacy, and are available for your use.
Frequently Asked Qs
What is the intention of a personal retreat?
It is a time to withdraw from one’s normal daily activities and intentionally spend time in God-reminding activities. While this is not prescriptive, one might spend longer periods of time in meditation, chant, read spiritually inspiring books, take nature walks “with God”, do yoga postures, pranayama, journal, etc.
Are there supplies to support my personal retreat?
Yes, there is a harmonium, chant books, an altar with photos of the Masters, a yoga mat, blankets, a meditation cushion, and spiritual books.
Are meals included?
Meals are not provided, but you have a full kitchen to prepare your own food in privacy. Please note that the kitchen is designated for vegetarian food.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check in is 3pm and check out is 11am.
Will anyone else be taking a personal retreat at Serenity Cottage when I’m there?
No, you have the entire cottage to yourself.
Can I bring my pet?
The property is a pet-free environment.