Reflections on 2024 Agama City Retreat
Thank you to Claudia who submitted this beautiful reflection of our recent City Retreat, held annually between Christmas and New Year.
By Claudia Craig (student of AYC)
One of the things I love about Agama Yoga Centre is its unique restorative experiences. The recent City Retreat led by Barb across the final five days of December was no exception.
I have attended the retreat before, yet this series seemed to reward in new ways. Perhaps this was because I arrived in a deeper state of relaxation than other years; or perhaps I am getting better at opening my mind and receiving the wisdom Barb so generously bestows.
I have a lingering sense, however, that this series of classes delivered something special. Everything Barb spoke about resonated, drawing me into a deeper part of myself, a place further from the world outside, more sacred, real and meaningful. It touched my soul as well as my body and mind.
The retreat’s theme Self-reflection - Finding the Truth was explored through the concepts of avidya (ignorance and misconception) and vidya (the true self).
“Using the simple image of a tree, Barb explained that our roots can be muddied by misconception and misunderstanding, and from this imbalances will grow. ”
We touched on the forces of ego (asmita) and desire (raga), reflecting on the ways too much or too little can upset our balance. Simple teachings, yet so powerful.
We also reflected on the concepts of fear and faith. Each of us fear something, Barb explained, and the antidote is faith. I understood faith to be something strong and grounding, a clarity of purpose and value unimpeded by barriers. By shifting our avidya, we can move closer to a place of faith.
I liked the way Barb used simple stick figure drawings to show us how to move from one state of being to another. The message to find yourself first, then interact with others from that place of knowing, was particularly powerful.
As the last class ended, we were encouraged to choose five treasures from the year just passed to carry into the new year. Closing my eyes and remembering those things most precious to me was a quiet act of memorialisation. Knowing that the most beautiful and important aspects of my life will travel with me was a comforting feeling.
After each of us said our last namaste for 2024 we gathered at the windows and threw flower petals onto the street below. What a lovely way to end the year and welcome the next.