Chinmaya Mission Boston hosted the “Thinking Deeply, Living Intentionally” Loving Earth Retreat from November 7-9, 2025. Guided by Shri Vivek Gupta, Shrimati Shashikala Dwarkanath, Shri Suman Rajupet, and Shrimati Nandini Tivakaran, this dynamic family retreat explored inner and outer landscapes with about 100 seekers of all ages. The transformative weekend, featuring discourses, activities, an Earth Fair, and service, taught expressing ananya bhakti towards Prthvi Devi (Mother Earth).

Seekers explored what it means to be human, endowed with courage, inquiry, and the capacity to care. Guides stressed seeing Earth not merely as a resource, but as a revered Mother, reminding attendees that when She suffers, children cannot flourish.

Mornings began with meditation followed by lessons on yama-s, yajna-s, and the nine forms of devotion. These encouraged rethinking wants versus needs and reflecting on daily choices that impact self-development and the planet. Outdoor activities included a guided hike, a conservation game, and soccer.

Not-for-profits and seekers organized an Earth Fair highlighting repair, reuse, and refusal of single-use products. The Fair featured a repair shop and displays for making cleaners, laundry detergent, play dough, lotion, advocacy, and sustainable gift wrapping. Our yuva-veers facilitated Jeopardy and satvik tank sessions, teaching that environmentalism, as Prthvi yoga, is vital for integrating spiritual practices into everyday living.

On the last day, over 300 students learned about faith and environmentalism from dedicated, trained young adult teachers and guides. Seekers left inspired, connected, and committed to family and community action, carrying forward both gratitude and responsibility toward Mother Earth.

Authors: Shayon Banerjee, Juie Deo and Artificial Intelligence