2026 Spring Retreat in Damascus, Oregon
Date: May 9-13, 2026
In-person retreat in our new meditation hall
Join us for a five-day spring gathering devoted to the living tradition of Kashmir Shaivism as revealed by Swami Lakshmanjoo.
On May 9th, the solar birthday of our beloved Gurudev, we will gather on a quiet hilltop outside of Portland in our new meditation hall to celebrate his life and teachings, including shared stories and remembrance.
In the four days that follow, we will devote ourselves to study drawn directly from Swamiji’s original audio and video recordings, accompanied by discussion, meditation, and reflection.
Our new meditation hall was created as a simple, dedicated space for study and contemplation. Built on our land overlooking the valley, with wide windows and quiet natural light, it offers a peaceful setting that supports going inward together. After years of gathering online and traveling for retreats, it feels deeply meaningful to open our doors and welcome you here.
Details
Date: May 9-13
Length: 5 days
Location: Damascus, Oregon
Group size: Up to 25
Accommodation: Airbnb or a hotel nearby
Tuition: $1250
Includes:
• Celebration of Swamiji’s solar birthday
• Four full days of text study
• Daily meditation and gentle yoga
• Tea, snacks, lunch, and light dinner
Paid in two installments:
1. Pay a $500 non-refundable deposit to reserve your space.
2. March 19th - $750 paid via Zelle (310-837-0402) or Check, OR $780 paid via Credit Card or PayPal.
Reserve Your Space!
Once registered, you will receive instructions to complete your deposit, sign the release waiver, and provide your background information.
Why Join the Retreat?
Before leaving this world, Swami Lakshmanjoo expressed a heartfelt wish that a small group of sincere spiritual aspirants continue to gather regularly to study his teachings. For more than three decades, this living stream of oral transmission has been carried forward—first through in-person study, and later through online gatherings reaching students worldwide.
This spring gathering continues that tradition in person.
Drawing from the oral tradition of Kashmir Shaivism as revealed by Swami Lakshmanjoo, we will study several important texts central to the philosophy and lived practice of this great tradition. Teachings will be accompanied by in-depth discussion and generous time for questions, allowing the teachings to move beyond intellectual understanding and into daily life.
Course Leaders:
Study sessions will be guided by John Hughes, Denise Hughes, and George Barselaar (joining via Zoom), all of whom studied directly with Swami Lakshmanjoo and have continued this tradition of study for many years.
Shanna Hughes will lead the daily meditation and gentle yoga sessions.
Claudia Dose supports the retreat behind the scenes.
Your Retreat Experience Includes:
- Celebration of Swamiji’s Solar Birthday – A sacred gathering in his honor
- Daily Meditation & Yoga – Awaken with breath, movement, and presence
- Four full days of Teachings & Text Study – Explore Kashmir Shaivism’s non-dual wisdom as revealed by Swami Lakshmanjoo
- Devotional Practice – Participate in Puja, Vijnana Bhairava meditation & group reflections
- Time for Silence & Reflection – Deepen your connection within
- Exquisite Vegetarian Cuisine –Two wholesome meals, tea, and snacks daily
A Glimpse of Your Daily Rhythm
The birthday celebration follows its own rhythm of remembrance.
The study days begin at 8 am and unfold as follows:
- Morning Meditation & Light Breakfast
- Gentle yoga
- Group Meditation & Puja (Recitation of Sanskrit verses specially selected for worship (puja) by Swamiji)
- Tea Break
- Text Study & Discussion (Kashmir Shaivism as revealed by Swami Lakshmanjoo)
- Silent Lunch & Rest
- Stories of Swamiji’s Life
- Afternoon Text Study & Meditation Practices
- Evening Meditation
- Light Dinner
Teaching sessions, discussion, and inquiry unfold throughout the day in a quiet, contemplative rhythm that supports sustained attention and reflection.
This retreat is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, deepen your spiritual understanding, and celebrate the teachings of Kashmir Shaivism in a setting of calm and natural beauty.
Secure your spot!
Space is limited and will be reserved in the order registrations are received.
Feedback from past participants
The absolute joy of having this sangha in my life. Being with everyone was inspiring. I know without a shred of doubt that I have landed on the right path: Swami Lakshmanjoo, Kashmir Shaivism.
~Nan Goldstein
Being there in person is always special; all the learning, small conversations with others, getting to know new participants, as well as reconnecting with our old friends. The learning from the sacred text is always a treat, even though much of it isn't fully absorbed. But I love hearing it, and it's one of my favorites of all the retreats. Hearing from John, Denise, and George, as well as Shanna and Claudia, along with others' questions or comments, is such an enjoyable part of it all. Just a great event, and so glad we have this opportunity.
~ Bruce Catalano
Feeling your devotion to Kashmir Shaivism and experiencing first-hand teachings by Swami Lakshmanjoo.
~Willem van Poelje
