APR. 26-27 ~ Reclaiming Our Sacred Wisdom: A South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat


A Weekend of Sisterhood, Self-Love & Collective Healing

You are warmly invited to a nourishing weekend retreat for South Asian women – an opportunity to rest, reconnect, and build community.

We will gather in sacred space on the New Moon to grow together in sisterhood, deepen self-love, and explore how we can collectively break free from patriarchal conditioning. Together, we will honour our roots, reclaim our power, and cultivate deep healing in a safe space.


This retreat is an invitation to:

Celebrate, grow, and heal in sisterhood – strengthening the bonds of support, trust and shared wisdom.

Cultivate self-love – releasing inherited wounds and stepping fully into our whole selves.

Address patriarchal conditioning – explore ways we can dismantle limiting structures, reclaim our voices, and create meaningful change.


Through ancestral healing practices, movement, ritual, nature immersion, and creative expression – we will weave together the threads of our collective wisdom, resilience, and joy.


Our weekend will include:

– Circles with the opportunity to share from the heart in a safe, nurturing space

– Ancestral ritual and practices

– Trauma-informed movement including asana

– Creative expression

– Nature reconnection

– Deep relaxation and integration time

– Storytelling and reflective writing

– Four delicious and nutritious locally sourced vegan meals over two days

– Onsite camping or dorm-style indoor accommodation (or you may choose to organize alternate accommodation nearby)

– A beautiful and sacred earthen studio setting


This intentional gathering is a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and reclaim the gifts of our heritage – while forging a path forward that is rooted in both personal empowerment and collective liberation.

Being a part of the South Asian diaspora comes with unique challenges, and together we can start to unravel our struggles, release what no longer serves, and reclaim the gifts of our ancestry – while bringing upliftment and balance to our full selves.


Dharti Mata Centre – nestled on on 5.5 acres of natural forest and farmland – is just 10 – 20 minutes from all three mainland ferry terminals, located on the outskirts of South Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, BC.


*Click to view pics from our first and second South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat.

A CLOSER LOOK AT LOGISTICS


SCHEDULE

Day 1 (Saturday, April 26)
10:00am – Welcome + Activities (includes short morning break)
12:45 – 1:45pm – Lunch
1:45 – 5:30pm – Activities (includes short afternoon break)
Day Retreat Ends

6:00 – 7:00pm – Dinner for full weekend folks
*7:30pm Informal Evening Activity (Optional)

Day 2 (Sunday, April 27)
8:30am – 9:30am – Breakfast
10:00am – Welcome Back + Activities (includes short morning break)
12:00 – 1:00pm – Lunch
1:45 – 5:00pm – Activities (includes short afternoon break)
5:00pm – Weekend Retreat Ends

*The above schedules are subject to change.


MEALS

Four delicious and nutritious garden-fresh, vegan meals (lunch on Saturday to lunch on Sunday), chai, and snacks are included.


ACCOMMODATION

  • Camping is available on the land, as well as indoor dorm-style accommodation. This is included in the retreat rate (please bring your own gear/bedding).
  • Alternatively, click here for a list of accommodation near our venue.


TRANSPORTATION

FERRY: VANCOUVER – NANAIMO

*All three ferry terminals are 10-20 minutes from our venue.
*Need help with a ferry terminal pick up? Please ask.

TRAVEL FROM ANOTHER LOCATION:
We can also help organize a ride share from another location – please ask.

SOME ISLAND DISTANCES TO OUR VENUE
30-minute drive from Crofton Ferry Terminal (Salt Spring Island)
75-minute drive from Victoria & Courtenay

YOUR RETREAT FACILITATORS

Satya Amrita Kumari Jehman (Vedic Priestess Temple)

A Punjabi woman born into the Vedic lineage, Satya (she/her) has been living the traditional path of yoga all her life – with a more concentrated practice over the last 23 years. Satya carries the gift of fire ceremony and ritual by the grace of her ancestors from North India. She completed a year-long Yoga Apprenticeship in 2015 (Vijnana Yoga RYT200), and a deep dive study into jnana yoga (Vedic scripture study/self inquiry) with her teacher in her ancestral homeland of India amid a trio of winters from 2011-2013. While there in 2016, Satya was initiated into the Sidh Kunjika Stotram – the highest call to Maha Shakti (Divine Mother). She has been furthering her yogic studies in India with regular trips there for the past 16 years.

Satya recently completed a leadership training with a focus on Trauma-informed Leadership, Transformational Leadership, and Coaching.

Encouraged by her teachers, Satya is a facilitator of Retreats, Workshops, Ceremony, Ritual, and a 1-1 coach on the west coast of BC, in India – as well as online. She offers from the deepest place in her with utmost respect and reverence to her ancestors, to You, to the Divine, and to the Self.

Learn more about Satya’s offerings at @vedic_priestess_temple (Instagram) + @vedicpriestesstemple108 (Facebook). Sign up for Satya’s newsletter at www.vedicpriestesstemple.com.

Per Sekhon

Per (she/her) is of Punjabi Indian descent and the daughter of immigrant parents. Her lived experiences provide her with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of the communities she serves. A lifelong learner and active community volunteer, she is passionate about creating spaces for connection, growth, and healing.

Per is a dedicated Social Worker, Learning Design Specialist, and Facilitator with over 30 years of experience in the Federal Government of Canada and the non-profit sector. She brings a rich blend of expertise in counselling, community development, and human-centred leadership. Her work focuses on fostering resiliency, enhancing communication, and empowering individuals through a healing-informed approach. Her current day job focuses on working with BIPOC communities.

Per also teaches yoga at the University of Victoria, where she integrates cultural wisdom with movement practices. She is a deeply committed mother who is raising her child with a strong sense of identity, resilience, and cultural pride. This commitment extends to sharing knowledge, fostering leadership, and encouraging others to embrace their roots while forging new paths.

Through her work and service, Per strives to honour the sacrifices of those who came before her while empowering herself and others to navigate the world with confidence and compassion. She continues to deepen her connection to herself and her ancestors through yoga, community, and service.

YOUR CHEF & VENUE OWNER

Pamela Leila Rai (Dharti Mata Centre)

Pamela Leila Rai hails from a family of trailblazers in the Indo-Canadian community. She has been referred to as a champion of both sport and social justice. The daughter of the first Indo-Canadian to make an Olympic team, Harinder Jit Singh – Pamela Leila was a member of the Canadian National Swim Team for many years. She is proudly celebrated in the South Asian community as the first woman ever to win an Olympic medal. She is a retired high school teacher and a trained classical yoga instructor and aspirant, who embodies her ancestral wisdom traditions. Pamela Leila is a tireless environmental, human/animal rights and decolonization activist. 

She is the owner/operator of Dharti Mata Centre, a sacred hand sculpted earthen gathering and yoga space in Nanaimo, BC. Pamela Leila also nurtures folks with organic vegetables from her garden and delicious meals carefully created with love. She is the recipient of many awards and accolades, and a volunteer inspirational speaker.

ENERGY EXCHANGE

Full Retreat – April 26 & 27

$350 Early Bird Rate Before April 14

$400 Full Rate After April 14

Single Day Option – April 26 Only

$175 Early Bird Rate Before April 14

$225 Full Rate After April 14


Reserve Your Spot Soon – Spaces Limited

*Weekend rate includes two full days of programming with two skilled facilitators, four delicious and nutritious garden-fresh, vegan meals (lunch on Saturday to lunch on Sunday), chai, snacks, dessert, and camping or indoor dorm-style accommodation.

*Single day rate includes one full day of programming with two skilled facilitators, two delicious and nutritious garden-fresh, vegan meals (lunch and dinner on Saturday), chai, snacks, dessert, and camping or indoor dorm-style accommodation.

*A few partial scholarships are available for folks experiencing financial barriers. Please contact Satya to arrange.

*A couple of payment plans spots are available before April 14 Please contact Satya to arrange.

Support the Reclaiming Our Sacred Wisdom Scholarship Fund – Help Increase Accessibility for South Asian Women

Would you like to support this initiative to help South Asian women attend, who otherwise are unable to?

If you have the means, your support would go a long way in breaking barriers for South Asian women!
Please send an e-transfer with your donation.
Or simply add your donation to your registration fee if you plan to join us. No amount is too small!
Your support will be deeply appreciated!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

“What a beautiful day in an absolutely beautiful place! Thank you so much for a wonderful day with amazing women including you two. I am so glad I met you. The venue, the hospitality, the food – an absolutely perfect place to hold such a retreat like this. I also appreciated that I was in a room with women who understand and get me. I felt like this was the safest space I have been in, in a while. There’s something about being around women that are different, but there’s still a commonality. I felt understood and like I didn’t need to explain myself, or that I was “different” or the “other”. Thanks again so much. I look forward to future events.” ~ Sonya B, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“The South Asian women’s retreat was a very special day. We all had varying origins and of Indian ancestry, and regardless of where and how we were brought up, we often experienced similar challenges. Of course, we had unique experiences too, which we were able to discuss in the safe space provided. For me, I went in feeling “not Indian enough” based on my mixed ancestry and a lack of traditional foundation. But I was not alone. And, in the end, this turned out to be a retreat that I felt most comfortable at. Not to mention the incredible studio we were supported in.” ~ Tamara G, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“A most nourishing weekend full of ancestral stories, food, ritual, and reclamation. Connecting, laughing, crying, learning, and feasting with each other really helped me understand the gift of South Asian sisterhood, identity, and strength.” ~ Ria D, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“What a gift the South Asian women’s retreat has been! The retreat has given me so many opportunities to witness and be witnessed, and be held in a community that is bound together by shared lived experiences without dismissing the different challenges we all face. I appreciated the opportunity to listen, to share, to move our bodies and be in sacred ritual together. Our facilitators had so thoughtfully weaved together the weekend; incorporating aspects of personal reflection, connecting over sisterhood and dialogue around suffering, joy, anger, ancestors and possibilities.” ~ Kiren A, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“Even before the retreat started, I was tearing up at the thought of gathering with women who look like me and potentially share similar paths in life. Being at the retreat solidified this ancient longing to look into the eyes of those similar to me. I felt so seen and understood throughout the whole weekend. It was the little moments of shared stories over lunch, or quick smiles as we passed each other in the temple, that made me feel at home. This sense of coming home was the impact I received from the retreat. Coming home within myself through connecting to my ancestors and culture; coming home within the loving arms that is shared community; and coming home to the soft yet strongly supportive space of the temple we gathered in. Through coming home, my path forward is more clearly defined.” ~ Cypress W, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“I appreciated the time away from my daily home tasks, with time to be, and have delicious meals cooked for me! I realized from being at the retreat, how much of a need there is for such gatherings. Much healing and intentional connection is needed for South Asian women. So keep up the good work!” ~ Muneera W, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“I appreciated the location – what a beautiful place for reflection, connection, rest and rejuvenation; the ever available and varied nutrition to keep us nourished and satisfied; the facilitation – both facilitators brought knowledge, insight, heart and a good balance of interaction versus quiet reflection; and, community – the ability to interact and connect with other South Asian women with similar lived experiences, even though we come from unique backgrounds within the diaspora. Please keep creating more opportunities to gather, share, heal and connect. Great, heart-aligned and necessary work!” ~ Pamela D, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“It was very meaningful to attend an all South Asian women’s retreat for the first time!” ~ Daisy C, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“I appreciated the coming together of South Asian women, the land, the beautiful surroundings, and the nourishing food. I particularly enjoyed the philosophical discussions on dismantling the patriarchy, and the storytelling. We covered a lot, and I really appreciated the group circle sharing, it’s so rich just to hear from each other. Thank you for creating the space!” ~ Farheen H, Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“The opportunity to connect with other South Asian women, who share similar experiences and values, left me feeling more empowered, understood, and inspired to continue embracing my heritage in everything I do.” ~ Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

“I appreciated the warmth and inclusivity of the retreat. The organizers put so much thought into each aspect, from workshops to group discussions, ensuring everyone felt welcomed and valued. Some of the highlights for me included the sharing circles, where I was moved by the stories and insights of other participants, and the hands-on activities, which deepened my personal connection to my roots.” ~ Past South Asian Women’s Healing Retreat Participant

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I DON’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT THE SACRED WISDOM OF MY CULTURE. IS THIS GATHERING SUITABLE FOR ME?

Yes, this gathering is suitable for those who are not presently familiar with our sacred wisdom, as you will learn and share a lot. All are welcome.

I HAVEN’T DONE MUCH YOGA. IS THIS RETREAT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS?

Yes, the asanas (physical postures of Yoga) we will be doing are suitable for both beginners and experienced folks, and modifications will be included.

DO I HAVE TO BRING MY OWN FOOD?

Dharti Mata Centre will serve four delicious and nutritious, garden-fresh vegan meals (lunch on Saturday – lunch on Sunday), chai, snacks, and dessert.

AM I WELCOME TO THIS RETREAT IF I IDENTIFY AS NON-BINARY OR GENDER NON-CONFORMING?

Yes, folks who identify as non-binary and gender non-conforming – as well as anyone who identifies as a woman, is welcome.

WHAT ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

We will have onsite camping available on the acreage as well as indoor dorm-style accommodation in the hall, and this is included in the registration fee (you will need to bring your own gear for camping; sleeping bag and sleeping mat for indoor). There will be access to an indoor bathroom, shower, and kitchen.

Alternatively, we have compiled a list of nearby Airbnbs and alternate accommodations that may be of interest to you. This would be an additional cost that you would organize independently, and is not included in the price of the retreat. 

IF I DON’T WANT TO CAMP, DOES MY RETREAT RATE CHANGE?

No, it is the same price whether or not you decide to camp. 

HOW DO I GET TO THE VENUE?

The venue is located in South Wellington on the outskirts of Nanaimo, at the Dharti Mata Centre at 2021 Brothers Road. It is a short 10-20 minute drive from Duke Point, Departure Bay, and Hullo-Nanaimo ferry terminals. Ride shares will be available from the ferry terminals, and more details on this will be provided after registration. We can also assist with ride share from another location – please let us know what your needs are.

WILL THERE BE A RIDE SHARE OR FERRY SHUTTLE?

Yes, if you need support with transportation from the ferry or another location, we can certainly assist with that. Just let us know your needs once you register. 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SATURDAY AND SUNDAY?

Both days will involve community building, wellness activities, discussion, cultural reclamation, creativity, amazing food, and lots of relaxation. Sunday will be a continuation and deepening of our journey on Saturday.

CAN I JUST ATTEND SATURDAY?

Yes. It is $175 to attend Saturday only. 

CAN I JUST ATTEND SUNDAY?

Unfortunately, no. Sunday will be a deepening of our Saturday programming. If you wish to come for only one day, Saturday is your opportunity for that. 

DO YOU HAVE A SAMPLE SCHEDULE OF THE WEEKEND?

The schedule will include plenty of group discussion, trauma-informed asana and other wellness practices, guided meditation, storytelling, cultural reconnection, creative exercises, and nature activities. 

WHY IS THIS EVENT FOR SOUTH ASIANS? CAN I ATTEND IF I AM ONLY PARTIALLY SOUTH ASIAN?

Having specific wellness spaces that are for South Asian people is important for our healing and strength after many years of collective oppression and racism. The wellness industry in North America frequently appropriates our culture; gatherings like this allow us to feel a greater sense of safety and foster culturally specific healing from our shared colonial history of violence and subjugation. This retreat is for South Asian people because we will be focusing on the specific historical and cultural factors that contribute to our holistic wellbeing as South Asian people.

Those who identify as women and non-binary/gender fluid folks with any amount of South Asian ancestry/mixed ancestry are most welcome.

WILL THIS RETREAT BE CASTE-RELATED?

Please note that our work is absolutely not identified with the caste system at all, and we will not be focusing on caste at the retreat. For us, the caste system indicates separation and therefore, does not uphold the understanding of unity. Though Satya was born into the system, she rejected the system. However she honours, celebrates and practices all that is Vedic/Yogic – which upholds the understanding of unity.

Furthermore, our participants come from all walks of South Asian culture, including Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, Anglo Indian, Ismaili, etc. We have had folks come to the retreat with roots in Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Trinidad, Mauritius, Canada, etc. And folks range from early 20s to late 60s so far. It is truly an amazing gathering of the South Asian diaspora! 

IS THIS THE SAME OFFERING AS THE FIRST TWO SOUTH ASIAN WOMEN’S RETREAT BACK IN 2024?

No, this weekend retreat is a new offering, and will also include some foundational elements of our last gathering. While our general intention and structure are similar to our two seasonal retreats in 2024, our upcoming weekend retreat will include a bunch of new programming, and build and expand on our last retreat. Furthermore, we have carefully and thoughtfully planned a weekend of activities informed by the previous retreat participant’s feedback and suggestions, so we can deepen our healing and grow together. If you attended in 2024, we hope that this gathering will be refreshing yet familiar, as well as deeply inspiring! If it is your first time joining us, you are so welcome!

WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

Full refund minus a $35 admin fee until April 6, 2025.

50% refund, minus $35 admin fee April 7 – 13, 2025.

​Unfortunately, we cannot issue any refunds after April 14, 2025.

Nor can tickets be transferred to another person after April 14, 2025.

For questions please contact satya@vedicpriestesstemple.com

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"I offer this space from my heart with utmost respect and reverence to my ancestors, to You, to the Divine, and to the Self (Pure Awareness). For the greater good of the Whole. ॐ"
~ Satya ~