all your experiences are stepping stones not stumbling blocks
our lives are short lived so live each day well.
~ MATA YOGANANDA MAHASAYA DHARMA
Self Realization Sevalight Centre Guidelines
A sacred place that supports an inward process of spiritual development
Many people come to the Centre to be with themselves, possibly to seek answers from within, get away from the busyness of daily life and to recharge. The Centre Family aim to support people who want to take time away from their daily lives to learn more about and connect with themselves. We encourage guests to respect the needs of others who may be on retreat at the same time. Thus, it is not a time for too much socializing and engaging in more mortal activities.
Group Meditation & Silent Times
We gather for meditation every morning and evening and lovingly welcome all to join us for these special times open to new and ‘seasoned’ meditators alike. Meditation is held in the Dharma Meditation Room Monday through Saturday at 8 pm; Sundays at 7 pm & every morning 6 am. We keep the quiet after meditation in the evenings until 8 am the next day for the benefit of all. There is a bell at 12:45 pm to signify ‘Quiet Time’ each day to 2:30 pm – everything stops until the bell goes again at 1pm – this gives a stillness before lunch and we eat lunch in the silence.
Silent Times & Sunday Retreat Day
The Centre is similar to an ashram in that we have silent & quiet times to help nurture our connection to our inner selves. Silent times are from 7:45 pm to 8:30 am & 12:45 – 2:30 pm. Sundays are our Silent days. Please note we do not check emails or answer the phone on Sundays. If you require assistance on this day while here, please ring the bell at the front of the house. Breakfast is served at 8:30 am and we serve a light lunch and evening meal at 1 pm and 5:30 pm respectively.
Wifi and Internet
To ensure a peaceful and relaxing environment most of the Centre’s accommodation is mobile phone / computer / iPod free and we do not have internet facilities for visitors to use. The nearest internet and/or computer can be found at the Sechelt library. If this is going to be a challenge for you, please speak with us. We welcome you to give your family & friends the Centre’s contact details in case they wish to reach you.
Medical Considerations & Emergencies
Guests are expected to take full responsibility for themselves during their stay. What we offer is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a serious health condition, including severe allergies, a heart condition, or any potentially life-threatening disease, it is essential to check with us prior to registering. If you are pregnant or have any special needs, please do let us know before you arrive so that we can make sure that you receive all you need from your stay.
Drugs & Alcohol
Recreational and illegal drugs and alcohol are not permitted while you are participating in our programs.
Food
We serve plant-based homemade food, made with love. To respect this, we kindly ask that meat and animal based products not be brought onto the property. If you have any food allergies, special dietary needs or requirements, please let us know at least 1 week prior to your stay so we can best accommodate you. In efforts to help people still and calm their energy, we do not serve coffee, however, we do offer coffee substitutes and a selection of black and green teas.
Wildlife
The Centre’s property backs onto Crown Land and we are blessed to have many animal passing through the land, such as bears, deer, elk, owls, coyotes, raccoons. We have found these animals are not prone to look for encounters with humans however, do let us know if you see wildlife on the property.
Requirements on Attire
As a Spiritual Retreat Centre and for the benefit of all, visitors are requested to wear clothing respectful of being at a Spiritual Centre (i.e. please no low necklines, short shorts or skirts). Dress is casual except you may also want to dress nicely for Satsangas or special events.
Scent Free, Allergies & Laundry
Bella, the Centre’s cat, lives in the main house and does not enter into the guest accommodation or Dharma Meditation Room. If you are allergic to cats, or have any other allergies, please let us know. The Centre uses natural cleaning products and our laundry is washed with scent free detergent. If you are staying for a longer period of time, we are able to offer laundry service for you. We ask that guests and visitors do not wear perfume or cologne on the premises as many people are sensitive to them.
“Best kept secret … but I will share that I find this dynamic place so peaceful and loving. I’ve found the opportunities endless to reconnect spiritually, to be uplifted, to relax and enjoy ~ whether it is simply for bed and breakfast, learning yoga or meditation, or attending a retreat.
The food is wholesome and delicious and made with love. All this in a natural setting nestled in tall trees and trails to explore. Thank you Andrew and Kathseva for your work, and lovely job as hosts.”
– SHANA
MORNING MEDITATION
6:00 am
Monday - Saturday
EVENING MEDITATION
8:05 pm
Monday - Saturday
SPIRITUAL TALK & MEDITATION
7:00 pm
Sundays
WINGED PRAYER
9:00 pm
Each evening