IN-PERSON RETREATS
Meditation, Yoga & Living with Purpose Retreat
Step away from the noise and reconnect with what truly matters through an immersive retreat experience that transforms from the inside out.
Just a two-hour Amtrak train ride from NYC, with pickup available at Hudson station.
A Journey of Awakening, Expanding, and Evolving
Discover the life-changing potential of meditation and yogic practices in just three meaningful days.
During the retreat, you’ll follow a peaceful daily rhythm—starting with early morning meditation and yoga, nourishing meals, uplifting music, and inspiring workshops. Each part of the day is designed to help you reconnect with yourself and what truly matters.
You’ll also spend time in nature, with a guided walk through the forest—a favorite moment for many participants. In the stillness of the natural world, it's easier to find inner calm and deepen your sense of connection.
More than just a weekend experience, this retreat shows you how to bring these simple yet powerful practices into your everyday life—creating a routine that supports clarity, balance, and inner peace.
Guided by experienced mentors and supported by a like-minded community, you’ll take home more than memories—you’ll carry tools to live with greater purpose and peace.
retreat offerings
Explore Our Retreat Experiences
Guided Meditation:
Immerse yourself in six guided meditation sessions that introduce you to the transformative power of mantra meditation—a deeply grounding and accessible practice. You’ll learn to use a universal mantra that evokes inner peace and love, unconnected to any particular religion or deity.
These sessions also include uplifting mantra chanting with music, creating a joyful and heart-opening atmosphere. Our aim is to help you experience the benefits of meditation firsthand and feel confident incorporating it into your daily life at home with ease..
Yoga Postures:
Experience three deeply restorative yoga classes, thoughtfully designed to support your meditation practice. This style of yoga is slow, subtle, and inward-focused—aimed at calming the nervous system, stimulating the endocrine glands, and gently preparing the body and mind for deeper stillness.
Unlike more intense or fitness-oriented styles such as vinyasa, hatha, Iyengar, or power yoga, our approach is not meant to be a physical workout. Instead, it offers a meditative and balancing experience that welcomes all levels, encouraging deep relaxation and inner connection.
Workshops & Sessions:
Go beyond techniques and into the deeper purpose behind meditation and yoga—and how they shape your experience. These engaging sessions invite you to reflect on the purpose of life and what it truly means to live with intention and meaning. Through accessible yet profound teachings drawn from yogic philosophy, you’ll explore the structure of the mind, the nature of consciousness, and how to reconnect with your deeper self. Grounded in timeless wisdom and thoughtfully adapted for today’s world, these workshops offer practical tools to help you live in alignment with your essence—moment by moment.
Community Connection:
Engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals in a beautiful and inspiring environment that nurtures openness and authenticity. Whether during shared meals, nature walks, or quiet moments between sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to connect deeply, exchange insights, and feel supported by a community that shares your values and aspirations for inner growth and purposeful living.
Accommodation & Meals:
Spend your days in comfort in our simple yet welcoming accommodations, surrounded by the peace and beauty of nature. Our retreat center offers a quiet, supportive atmosphere where you can fully unplug, rest, and recharge. You’ll enjoy six lovingly prepared, nutritious lacto-vegetarian meals, crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients—always with vegan options available. Meals are served in a warm, communal setting that encourages mindful eating and meaningful connection.
BENEFITS
Unlock a New Level of Personal Growth
Our retreats are more than just yoga and meditation; they're about creating meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact. With the tranquility of the Catskills as your backdrop, connect deeply with yourself and others.
Leave with renewed energy and a higher sense of purpose, ready to apply what you've learned in your everyday life.
Stress Reduction
& Relaxation
Experience profound peace and tranquility that relieves stress, allowing you to relax and regain emotional balance. This course empowers you to replace overwhelm with calm, cultivating a lasting sense of serenity.
Clarity
& Focus
Gain deep clarity on your life’s purpose and direction, sharpening your focus on what truly matters. Through meditation and yogic practices, you’ll find renewed insight into your goals and how to achieve them.
Renewed Energy
& Vitality
Rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit through calming meditation and gentle yogic practices that restore balance and energy. Rediscover a quiet vitality to meet each day with presence and renewed inspiration.
Practical Skills for Everyday Life
Equip yourself with effective tools and strategies to bring discipline, self-awareness, and meaning into your daily routine—empowering you to create lasting change in your personal and professional life.
Enhanced Emotional Intelligence
Build emotional strength and endurance by learning how to respond to challenges with conviction and determination. Cultivate emotional balance to navigate life's ups and downs with a grounded perspective.
Deeper Connection to Self & Others
Develop a profound connection to your true self and the people around you. Through our Vistara practices, you’ll foster empathy, compassion, and meaningful relationships, finding a sense of belonging in the world.
TESTIMONIALS
Hear From Our Transformed Participants
"I started meditating daily"
"I wanted to re-establish a meditation practice. Unlike many retreats, this retreat included yoga and meditation, focusing on meditation. I started meditating daily."
- Mary E. (Oct 15, 2024)
"I felt more at peace with myself after attending"
"I was looking for a retreat due to my high stress job. I chose this retreat because of its location and the literature.
I felt more at peace with myself after attending. It is a calm and safe place. The people there are all so nurturing.
The food was so good and provided with such loving care. The facility was very clean as well."
- Dinah (May 2, 2024)
"Spiritual Bliss feels attainable"
"Spiritual Bliss feels attainable after going through this workshop. A very laid-back environment with very caring people. Calming feeling in a chaotic unsettled world we are living in."
- Karen M. (May 2, 2024)
"I felt more at peace with myself after attending"
Stress motivated me to go on this retreat. I chose this retreat as the location was convenient. Rest and relaxation. Learning how to practice yoga and meditation. I became a vegetarian and learned mediation and yoga. Wonderful experience!
- Tracey (April 18, 2023)
MEET OUR EXPERTS
Guided by Experienced Professionals
Led by esteemed instructors Dada Rainjitananda and Viveka Bruce, each possesses profound knowledge and many years of experience in both meditation and yogic practices.
Dada Rainjitananda
Acarya (spiritual teacher)
Dada Rainjitananda is a spiritual teacher (Acarya), a yogic monk, and experienced meditation guide who has been teaching since 1984. He is a registered yoga teacher (E-RYT 500) with Yoga Alliance USA and has introduced thousands of people to personal meditation practice across four continents.
Originally from Brazil, Dada holds a degree in Civil Engineering (UFMG, 1982) and earned an international MBA in France in 2006—after he had already become a monk. His journey has taken him from Africa to Europe and now to the United States, where he has been based since 2000. Dada teaches in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian, offering deep yet accessible guidance rooted in the ancient tradition of Tantra and Astaunga Yoga.
Dada lives in the Catskills, NY and he regularly leads retreats, gives university lectures, and offers online courses focused on meditation, yogic philosophy, and spiritual living with purpose.
Viveka Bruce McEwen
Acarya (spiritual teacher)
Viveka Bruce is a senior spiritual teacher (Acarya) with decades of experience in meditation, yoga, and holistic wellness. He has practiced daily meditation and yoga asanas since 1972 and is a registered yoga instructor (E-RYT 500) with Yoga Alliance USA.
Viveka holds a PhD in Biochemistry from Cornell University and integrates both scientific insight and spiritual depth into his teaching. He currently teaches meditation, yoga, nutrition, and stress management at the University at Albany (UAlbany), Heartspace Yoga Studio, and other venues in the region. His classes emphasize evidence-based approaches that are accessible, practical, and deeply transformative.
He is also the cofounder of a Yoga Alliance–accredited yoga teacher training that has prepared over 200 graduates for teaching careers. Viveka lives in Albany, NY, with his wife Virginia. They have been happily married for over 50 years and are the proud parents of four adult children and grandparents to four grandchildren.
UPCOMING RETREATS
Mark Your Calendar for a Life-Changing Experience
Browse the upcoming Vistara retreat dates below and choose the perfect moment to begin your transformative journey with us.
OUR SCHEDULE
What to Expect Each Day
Step into a rhythm of presence, purpose, and renewal. Our thoughtfully designed schedule blends guided meditation, yoga, group activities, nourishing meals, and quiet reflection—creating the perfect balance between structure and spaciousness.
Friday
4:00 PM - Arrival and Check-in
6:00 PM - Introduction to Meditation, Yoga, & Living with Purpose
7:00 PM - Dinner
8:00 PM - Opening Program
9:00 PM - Bedtime/Quiet Hours
Saturday
7:00 AM - Gentle Slow Yoga Asanas (Postures)
8:00 AM - Mantra Meditation
9:00 AM - Breakfast
10:00 AM - Workshop 1
11:15 AM - Free Time
12:00 PM - Introduction to Kiirtan Chanting & Meditation
1:00 PM - Lunch
2:45 PM - Forest/Guided Nature Walk
4:00 PM - Free Time
4:45 PM - Gentle Slow Yoga Asanas (Postures)
6:00 PM - Kiirtan Chanting and Mantra Meditation
7:00 PM - Dinner
8:00 PM - Evening Program
9:00 PM - Bedtime/Quiet Hours
Sunday
7:00 AM - Gentle Slow Yoga Asanas (Postures)
8:00 AM - Mantra Meditation
9:00 AM - Breakfast
10:00 AM - Workshop 2
11:30 AM - Closing Circle, Group Photo & Meditation
1:00 PM - Lunch
2:00 PM - Departure
LOCATION
A Natural Setting for Deep Transformation
Nestled in the heart of the Catskills in Upstate New York, our retreat center is a hidden gem—surrounded by lush woods, pristine wetlands, open fields, and peaceful walking trails. This serene landscape offers not just beauty, but a powerful space for inner transformation.
As you walk the forest paths, listen to the birdsong, or enjoy the silence beneath the open sky, nature gently draws you inward. The quiet, expansive surroundings support deep reflection, helping you reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
Guests often speak of how the environment itself becomes part of the enriching journey—a sanctuary where peace naturally arises, and clarity unfolds.
Just two hours from New York City by Amtrak train, the retreat is both remote and accessible. We offer pick-up service from the local train station, as well as from Albany International Airport—just 45 minutes away—to make your arrival easy and stress-free.
Whether you come for peace and quiet, inspiration, or a new beginning, our sacred space welcomes you.
LOGISTICS AND ACCESSIBILITY
Plan Your Seamless Retreat Experience
Our venue provides comfortable accommodations, with transport available to ensure your journey is as peaceful as the retreat itself.
Comfortable & Cozy Accommodations
Our retreat center offers a range of accommodations designed to support rest, reflection, and inner peace.
Choose from:
Shared rooms with bunk beds – a simple, communal option for those who enjoy connection and affordability.
Private room with attached bathroom – ideal for individuals or couples seeking more privacy and comfort.
Private rooms with shared bathrooms – a balance of quiet space and affordability.
All rooms are clean, comfortable, and simply furnished to help you relax, unwind, and focus on your inner journey. Linens and towels are provided. You’ll also have access to shared lounge spaces, forest trails, and serene outdoor areas.
Whether you come alone or with a friend, you’ll find a warm, welcoming, and peaceful environment where you can rest deeply and feel at home.
OUR FOOD
Our food is lacto-vegetarian (sáttvika food*) with vegan options
We believe that food is an important part of any retreat, and we want to make sure that everyone has something to enjoy.
Our chefs create delicious and nutritious meals that are lacto-vegetarian, and we also offer vegan options. We avoid using foods from the onion, garlic, and mushroom families, as these ingredients are not conducive to meditation and yogic practices.
We neither serve nor allow alcohol, smoking or drugs on our premises, as they can interfere with the meditation and yoga process. We hope that you will enjoy our delicious and healthy food during your stay at our retreat!
What is Sáttvika Food?
Sáttvika food is nourishing, clean, and good for both the body and the mind. It supports inner balance, clarity, and calmness—making it ideal for meditation and spiritual practice. At our retreats, we serve fresh, plant-based meals prepared with love and care, following the sáttvika tradition. This includes:
▪️Grains like rice, wheat, and barley
▪️Beans and lentils (except orange lentils)
▪️Fruits and root vegetables
▪️Green and leafy vegetables (with a few exceptions)
▪️Milk and dairy products (optional and used thoughtfully)
▪️Mild spices and natural sweets
We do not use onions, garlic, mushrooms, or certain specific vegetables (like violet carrots, white eggplant, red puni leaves, and mustard greens), as they are believed to overstimulate the body or mind.
The result is food that is light, energizing, and easy to digest—helping you feel clear, centered, and peaceful throughout your retreat experience.
Reserve Your Spot Today
Embrace the chance to transform your life. Secure your place at Vistara Retreats and take the first step toward achieving a deeper sense of purpose and well-being.
PREPARATIONS
What to Bring & Additional Tips
Here are some preparations you can make for your weekend retreat:
Special Restrictions:
If you have any dietary restrictions or special needs, be sure to let us know in advance.
Prepare your trip:
By Train: Book your Amtrak tickets early—weekend trains can sell out; we recommend the Friday 2:19 PM departure from NYC (arriving in Hudson at 4:22 PM) and the Sunday 3:09 PM return from Hudson (arriving in NYC at 5:24 PM).
By Car: Arrive early in order to make sure you have enough time to check-in, get settled, and relax before the retreat begins. Keep in mind Friday rush hour traffic.
Pack your Bags:
Bring comfortable clothes, toiletries, and shoes suitable for a nature walk on an easy but rustic trail. Light-colored pants can help spot insects more easily. Don’t forget insect repellent, a journal, a good book, and a meditation cushion or pillow if you have one.
Come with a Positive Attitude, an Open Mind, and a Well-Rested Body:
Retreats are a chance to step outside your comfort zone—be open to new people, activities, and ideas, and support your experience by arriving well-rested, hydrated, and nourished.
Be Present and Honor Your Rhythm::
Retreats are a time to recharge, so immerse yourself in the moment, unplug from digital distractions, and connect with yourself and others. While we encourage joining as many activities as you can, listen to your body and rest when needed.
Additionally, read our website or contact us to get more information about the schedule, activities, and policies.
FAQS
Find answers to your questions and learn more about embarking on your transformative journey with Vistara.
Are the retreats suitable for beginners?
Yes, our retreats are designed to accommodate all levels, from beginners to those more experienced in yoga and meditation. Our instructors tailor the sessions to ensure everyone benefits, regardless of prior experience.
What should I bring to the retreat?
For your comfort and convenience, we recommend bringing comfortable clothing suitable for yoga and meditation, personal hygiene items, any medications you may require, and an open heart and mind ready for transformation. Yoga mats and props are provided.
How do meals accommodate dietary preferences?
We provide a selection of nutritious vegetarian meals with vegan options available. If you have specific dietary requirements or allergies, please inform us when reserving so we can ensure all your needs are met.
What is the cancellation policy for the retreat?
A reservation requires a deposit of 100% of the total price, which secures your spot. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable if the booking is canceled. However, we recommend contacting us directly for potential transfer options to future retreats.
Is transportation provided to the retreat location?
Yes, we facilitate transfer options from Albany International Airport for an additional fee. If you're arriving by train or bus, arrangements can be made for pick-up at a convenient location nearby. Detailed instructions will be provided upon booking to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Your Transformational Journey Awaits
Join Vistara Retreats and step into a new realm of personal empowerment and growth. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a spiritual recharge, your new life starts here.
Contact us
Vistara Center at Ananda Viplava
