Retreats on the Elements
akasadvayuh | vayoragnih | agnerapah | adbhyah prthivi
From space emerged air. From air was born fire. From fire was created water. From water sprang up earth (Taittiriya Upanishad 2.1.1)
A series of five immersive experiences, one for each of the Pancha Mahabhutas: Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether - designed to give you a felt sense of each Element, bring awareness to what is predominant in you, and introduce simple ways to find balance.
We are each made of the five Elements. At times, one takes over while another falls silent. This retreat series invites you to notice what’s alive in you, what’s dormant, and explore ways to activate or bring them into harmony. Each retreat includes a visit to one of five ancient temples in Tamil Nadu, built over 1,500 years ago by the Chola kings—each one dedicated to a single Element.
These temples are architectural marvels, and sites of deep spiritual resonance. Together, they form a sacred pilgrimage circuit known as the Pancha Bhuta Sthalas - the Five Element Shrines. Just as the Jyotirlingas represent the presence of Shiva, these temples embody the presence of the Elements themselves. Visiting all five is considered by many as a way to tune the body, mind and spirit to the Archetypes that govern our lives.
These retreats are deep dives into the Vedic understanding of the Elements. Through astrology and astronomy, dialogue and movement, silence and temple visits, meditation and experiential practices, we’ll develop an intimate connection with each Element. The aim is to ignite awareness of where we stand with each Element, and how they relate to one another within us.
Locations and retreat-specific details will be shared upon sign-up.
Structure of each retreat
I want to join, sign me up!
Our Team.
These retreats are led by a small team of 2-3 facilitators who are experienced in holding space. Each of them have explored their own relationship with the Elements, and is here to support your journey through astrology, movement, reflection and stillness. We’re with you throughout, before, during, and after the retreat.
Some things to know before you decide to participate. Please read the fine print:
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This is process-work, so there will be time in between each activity to process and integrate what comes up. Days will not be packed, but try not to plan calls, meetings or anything heavy during the retreat. It’s a time to step away from our usual routine, even for a short while.
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Respect each other’s space... Not everyone will want to talk or share, and that’s okay. There’s no need to support or “fix” anyone. Let each person experience the Element in their own way.
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The guest houses that we stay in are usually quiet, and on a twin sharing basis. Meals are simple South Indian vegetarian food. We have little control over what is prepared each day. If you have any strict dietary requirements, please check with us before signing up.
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The facilitators are around if you need to talk or ask for help - before, during, or after the retreat.
A few ground rules:
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Your spot is confirmed only after payment.
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Group size will be kept small in number, and on a first come first serve basis.
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Fees are non-refundable, but if something comes up, you can transfer your registration to another participant for the same retreat.
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You’re responsible for your wellbeing - mentally, emotionally and physically. The retreat is not therapy, but a space for honest experience in your journey of self discovery.
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Respect the spirit of the retreat. This is shared work, and your presence matters.
Here is a typical retreat schedule, subject to change as we approach the dates of the retreat
Thursday
Arrival & settling in
You’re welcome to arrive and check in anytime during the day. There’s no rush, we want you to settle in, rest and get familiar with the space. In the evening, we gather for our opening session from 5 to 7pm, a gentle start to the retreat. Dinner follows, and then it’s free time to rest or chat.
Friday
Intensive begins
We begin the day with breakfast, and then move into the heart of the retreat. Our sessions will be from 9am to 6pm, with breaks for tea, lunch, and silence for reflection. These sessions will help us explore the Element through experience, introspection and creative work. The day closes with dinner and rest.
Saturday
Deepening
Saturday follows a similar schedule - breakfast, followed by sessions from 9am to 6pm, with breaks for food and rest built in. By now, you’ll likely be more tuned in to the Element, and the work deepens naturally. We end the day with another simple dinner and time to unwind.
Sunday
Temple visit
We start the day with breakfast and check-out. We then travel together to the ancient temple dedicated to the Element we’ve been working with. After time at the temple, we return for a closing moment before departing to the familiar world outside the retreat.
“Hi Vikram, when I started this journey with you, I never imagined that astrology classes would take me so deep into the subject. I’m genuinely touched and moved by the past three days—the learning, reflections, self-study, connections, and activities you organised, especially the blindfold exercise and the thank-you card creation. It has been nothing short of fantastic for me.🌟 You led almost all the sessions with such humility, never judging any questions or answers, which made me feel that this is how learning should be. Everyone participated, collaborated, and learned together. ❤️ I just wanted to express my gratitude; you have been Godsend for me, and I am very thankful. 🙏”
Name withheld