A One Day Retreat was successfully conducted by the Vivekananda Cultural Center (a unit of Ramakrishna Math, Chennai) in association with Sanathana Seva Foundation on 26 December 2025 at the Vivekananda Cultural Center, Thiruvallikeni, Chennai.
The programme commenced with prayer. The inaugural address was delivered by Br. Vanishchaitanya, Director, Vivekananda Cultural Centre, setting a spiritually inspiring and reflective tone for the day.
The morning session featured Yoga and Meditation (KYM) conducted by Smt. Aruna, enabling participants to align body and mind, followed by an insightful session on Personality Development by Dr. Krishnaveni Hariram, which focused on self-awareness and inner growth - Vivekananda way.
After a short tea break, participants were taken on an enriching Experience Vivekananda – Museum Visit, facilitated by dedicated volunteers, allowing them to connect deeply with the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. This was followed by lunch.
The post-lunch session resumed with Mindfulness, Behaviour and Movement Therapy, led by Ms. Shuba, Behavioural Change Specialist from SRM Institute of Public Health, offering practical tools for emotional balance and mindful living. This was followed by a soulful session titled “Music for the Soul” by Ms. Savitha Sai, Music Teacher, which brought calmness and devotional resonance to the retreat.
After noon tea break, the concluding intellectual session was handled by Br. Vanishchaitanya, Director, Vivekananda Cultural Centre. He spoke on Teaching Vivekananda’s Values – “The heart to feel, the brain to conceive and the hand to work”, along with the importance of daily routine, and addressed parenting challenges and duties towards children in contemporary times.
As part of the retreat, books were distributed to the participants, reinforcing the learnings and inspiring continued reflection on Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and the programme concluded on a joyful note with a cheerful group photograph, capturing the spirit of togetherness and inspiration.
The retreat concluded with a feedback and recap session, where participants shared their reflections and expressed appreciation for the thoughtfully curated programme that seamlessly blended spirituality, wellness, culture, and practical life guidance.
The One Day Retreat stood as a meaningful initiative, leaving participants inspired, rejuvenated, and deeply connected to the timeless values of Swami Vivekananda.