returning to Mexico: a saint from the Himalayas, India — Swami Sharavananda Giri
5 days and 4 nights in the Huasteca Potosina, exploring the 30 Vedic teachings of the Bhaja Govindam
Saturday, March 21 to Wednesday, March 25
The Mahatma (great soul), Swami Sharvananda Giri, will share the most authentic way of studying and practicing Vedanta, as it has been transmitted for thousands of years in India for self-knowledge. This retreat explores the Bhaja Govindam, a poetic and powerful text by Adi Shankaracharya that weaves non-dual wisdom with a devotional heart. Its timeless message invites us not to wait for a “later,” but to turn inward now, toward the truth of who we really are. Swamiji will offer a profound commentary on the verses, while Los Satyas will bring devotional beauty through music and group chanting. Together, we will enter this sacred text not only through study, but through the living, felt experience of the heart.
The practice of listening to a great master transmit the knowledge of the Vedas, ancient scriptural texts of India, has been the foundation of spiritual liberation for countless people. It is a true blessing to be in the presence of a being with such firm vows and inner strength. Beyond his wisdom, Swami Sharavananda Giri is the very embodiment of sweetness, joy, and gentleness. We know of no better way to learn this knowledge, which can sometimes feel dry. A nectar that nourishes body, mind, and soul. Simply being in his presence is inspiring.
In this retreat, we aspire to return to a simple, uncluttered, and light way of living, so that we may make space for sublime, creative, and elevated thoughts. The place that hosts us is basic, beautiful, and deeply connected to the elemental forces of nature, which makes it magical. Bathing in the river becomes a daily ritual, the chorus of birds sets the tone for the morning, silence becomes our ally… A retreat filled with deep purpose.
What is Vedanta? What does the Bhaja Govindam teach?
Vedanta is an ancient philosophical and spiritual tradition originating in India. Its name comes from the Sanskrit «Veda» (knowledge) and «Anta» (end or culmination), meaning «the culmination or realization of knowledge.» Bhaja Govindam, which means “Sing the Names of the Divine,” is a Sanskrit text attributed to the sage Adi Shankaracharya, blending the non-dual wisdom of Advaita Vedānta with the devotion of Bhakti Yoga. Its message is clear and eternal: beyond intellect and worldly distractions, return to the heart, where truth resides.
Composed of thirty verses and a refrain, the text is a poetic call to awaken from forgetfulness and remember who we truly are. Amid the duties and desires of life, do not forget the Divine; do not forget yourself. Tradition holds that Adi Shankaracharya composed these verses upon seeing an elderly man studying grammar at the end of his life. With compassion, he invited him to leave behind useless knowledge and seek the essential. Thus, Bhaja Govindam was born: a reminder that life is brief, and the moment to awaken is now.
During this retreat, Swamiji will provide commentary on the verses, showing how their wisdom can be lived today with clarity, detachment, and devotion. This experience combines study, reflection, and devotional practice so that Bhaja Govindam is not only understood but lived, awakening within us the vision, love, and peace of the Self.
Will there be Yoga Asanas at the retreat?
Our teacher Swami Sivananda recommended the Yoga of synthesis, where all branches of Yoga are practiced together: Karma, Bhakti, Raja, and Jnana. This retreat will be no exception; we will include all components of integral Yoga to allow for deep transformation and to fully enjoy the experience…
Who can participate in the retreat?
No experience required! All levels are welcome!
Why should you participate in the retreat?
✓ Because Mahatmas like Swami Sharvananda Giri are among the most important teachers of Traditional Advaita Vedanta in India. They rarely travel to the West or anywhere outside India, if ever. In India, they teach at the most traditional Vedanta institutions, such as Kailash Ashram. Having him in Mexico is a unique blessing!
✓ Because it’s an opportunity to deepen your Sadhana – your spiritual practice.
✓ Because you want Yoga, mantras, meditation, and study to be your medicine.
✓ Because you want to connect with special spiritual beings
What’s included?
- Ground transfer to and from San Luis Potosí
- Full retreat immersion with daily classes, workshops, and practices
- 1 daily Yoga class
- 2 daily Satsang sessions (meditation, mantra chanting, and teaching)
- Unlimited river immersion
- 4 nights accommodation in simple, beautiful shared rooms
- All plant-based meals with delicious, healthy local cuisine
- Excursion to a natural paradise of the Huasteca Potosina
- Use of hotel facilities
*Airfare not included.
Activity Schedule**
Saturday, March 21
- 11:00 AM: Meeting in San Luis Potosí (PUNCTUAL)
- 11:30 AM: Transfer to Huasteca Potosina (5–6 hours by van)
- 5:30 PM: Arrival and check-in
- 6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:30 PM: Satsang – Retreat Opening
Sunday, March 22 to Tuesday, March 24
- 6:00 am: Guided Pranayama (Optional)
- 6:30 am: Satsang: Meditation, kirtan / chanting mantras, and a spiritual teaching
- 8:00 am: Yoga
- 10:00 am: Brunch
- 11:00 am: Free time (River-time)
- 12:00 pm: Lecture or Workshop
- 2:00 pm: Rest: Recharge & Relax
- 4:30 pm: Optional Yoga class
- 6:00 pm: Dinner
- 7:30 pm: Satsang: Meditation, mantras, and spiritual reading
Wednesday, March 25
- 6:00 am Satsang: Special closing
- 8:00 am: Yoga
- 10:00 am: Brunch
- 11:00 am: Departure back to San Luis
- 5:00 pm: Farewell in the city
** Subject to changes
*** A surprise outing to a local paradise will take place
Location & Facilities
Our retreat will take place at the eco-hotel Huastecamp. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers incredible access to a dreamlike river. Thanks to Huastecamp’s exceptional location and commitment to environmental protection, our entire program focuses on connecting with and discovering nature, as well as fostering healthy interaction in harmony with the surroundings. The site features:
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Yoga hall and temple immersed in nature.
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Mystic, crystal-clear river.
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Fire pit area.
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Dormitory-style rooms to create a warm communal atmosphere.
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Trails, birds, and abundant greenery.
There is only one type of accommodation, in a shared space. We will enjoy 2 cabins with 12 bunk beds each. The bathrooms are separate, beautiful, and shared. It’s an incredibly special place. We love the idea of living together, challenging our limits, and finding joy in simplicity.
Retreat Fee:
We want this retreat to be accessible to everyone, especially since we will have the blessing of a VERY special Swami. To ensure no one is left out for financial reasons, we use a conscious contribution structure, where each person contributes according to their means.
This way, we cover the essentials, sustain the energy of the gathering, and keep the door open for those who truly need it.
We rely on the generosity and capacity of each heart and wallet, trusting that this format reflects the highest Dharma. Once you make the deposit, you indicate the type of contribution you choose. We are happy to have your presence, whatever your choice. A deposit of $4,000 MXN is required, and the remaining balance is due 2 weeks before the retreat (payment can be made via PayPal or bank transfer). If you want to secure your spot, pay the initial deposit and send the payment confirmation to info@satyarupa.yoga
Seed Contribution → nurtures the retreat’s development: 7,900 MXN
Aurora Contribution → allows the experience to flourish for everyone: 9,900 MXN
Pollinator Contribution → supports the event for others and the continuity of these gatherings: 11,900 MXN
Any questions? You can write to us on WhatsApp by clicking here +529994539041
*If you live in the USA and prefer to make a bank transfer, write to us!
Cancellation Policy
The deposit is non-refundable.
Payments are neither cumulative nor transferable.
In the event of a lockdown mandated by the Mexican authorities, the retreat will be postponed.
Notes
- Flights to the retreat location are not included. You must arrive in and depart from San Luis Potosí.
- Ground transportation is included, so punctuality at the meeting point is essential.
- Please allow up to 6 hours of travel by land to and from San Luis Potosí if you have flights.
- The retreat will be conducted in English with Spanish translation.
- During the retreat, participants are invited to follow a Yogic diet (no alcohol, no meat, no smoking).
Who is leading the retreat?
Swami Sharvananda Giri, began his training under the personal guidance of the great Swami Chaitanyananda Sarasvati Vedanta in 1984. He took his monastic vows in 1991 and mastered the Prasthana Traya and Sanskrit grammar.
Swamiji was appointed Acharya of the renowned Kailash Ashram in Uttarkashi and elected president of the Sadhu Samaj. He serves as president of the Chaitanya Tapovan Trust and vice president of Adi Shankara Brahmavidya Peeth.
Swamiji has expert knowledge of the vast Vedantic literature and is fluent in Sanskrit, Hindi, English, and Bengali.
Satyadev y Satyabhama, Yoga practitioners for decades, as well as teachers dedicated to sharing the knowledge they have received with all beings in the world. With a personal commitment to help illuminate each being’s inner light, allowing us to evolve toward a world vibrating at the highest frequency of light and infinite love. We dedicate our lives to connecting hearts and sharing valuable teachings that have brought great inner richness to our own lives. We want to accompany you on your spiritual path, praying that by applying what you learn, you can realize your fullest potential in this very lifetime. We are happy to welcome you ♡
A transcendental immersion awaits you in the mystical Huasteca Potosina!
OM TAT SAT