Embracing Silence Retreat Ahymsin Switzerland

On May 11th, a group of 15 people from five different countries gathered in the heart of the Swiss mountains at Schweibenalp, Centre of Unity, for a week-long Silence Retreat guided with by Michael Kissener and John Sellinger. Perched on a sunny plateau at 1,200 metres, the retreat centre is embraced by an awe-inspiring panorama of majestic mountain peaks. As a centre for permaculture, founded as an ashram four decades ago by a disciple of Haidakhan Babaji, Schweibenalp carries a history of spiritual unity. It was also the residence of Ammaji (Mata Amritanandamayyi Devi) for nine years. Although Schweibenalp no longer functions as an ashram in the conventional sense, its all-embracing energy remained palpable, especially in the Temple of Unity, where statues and relics from all major religions reminded us of Swami Veda’s ashram in India, SRSG, and his vision of meditation as a unifying stream across faiths.

Arrival and Opening

On the first evening, following an opening circle and a guided meditation, we gently entered into silence, welcomed by the peaceful surroundings. Michael and John thoughtfully designed a schedule with special emphasis on īśvara-praṇidhāna (practice of the presence of the Divine), providing ample space for personal practice. For the first few days, we were gently guided with inspirational sessions and meditative practices. The sessions highlighted how mantra practice in itself is a pure path of īśvara-praṇidhāna. Guided practices served as paths into that experience, by inviting the presence of the Guru force, dedicating one’s personality as a temple, offering body, prana and mind as a dwelling place of the Divine, by refined stages in mantra japa, and by way of Atma-tattva-avalokanam, awareness of the Conscious Self.

Practices and Guidance

The landscape, newly awakened from winter and bursting into full bloom, beautifully supported the practice of silence. Walks in the permaculture gardens and contemplative walking offered moments of reflection. As the week progressed, the sunshine gave way to rain and occasional snow, prompting us to turn inward and embrace the deepening silence. Guidance without words gradually expanded, and the group was gently supported throughout.

Reflections and Closing

On the last day, after a final meditation guided by Michael, we arranged ourselves in a circle, surrounded by an atmosphere of peace and loving kindness. The silence was slowly broken, and we shared our experiences with warmth and gratitude. Each participant contributed to the supportive atmosphere, making the silence feel less solitary and more communal. It was a privilege to share this journey with such a compassionate group. Many expressed appreciation for the guides, the practices, and the serene environment. The presence of the Guru was strongly felt, and the sense of unity was unmistakable.

Presently we are preparing for the next Silence Retreat, which will be held in October 2027. If you would like more information about our upcoming events and initiatives, please contact us via ahymsinch@gmail.com.  Soon we will have our own website ahymsin.ch and you can follow our activities on facebook as well as Instagram.