Are you ready to begin your journey of awakening? Look no further than Om Maya Om. Rest assure that a retreat here will be a challenge. It will challenge you physically. Chi's constant questioning will challenge you intellectually and I for one appreciated his open, direct and honest style of transmission. Here you will get what seems like a lifetime of wisdom, knowledge and understanding distilled into a few days of teaching. My only wish was that this knowledge was taught at school but alas we must search the awakened ones in remote places. In this arena of challenge, you will be supported by a loving environment provided by Chia's presence in the kitchen, Chi who is always available to support you on this journey, baby Chita and two wonderful little dogs who were clearly already highly awakened beings, just being themselves. Isn't that just what we all want to be brave enough to be? The accommodation is back to basics, the food is insanely simple and delicious (all bio and vegan ingredients, no sugar, no salt) and will inspire you to adjust your daily food habits if you respect your body. No coffee, no telephone, talking when only necessary. Invigorating mindful walks along the forest dirt tracks, followed by cold baths in the evening sunshine. Everything about this retreat is designed to shake you out; wake you up. Are you ready to find yourself and make friends with yourself when you have no where to hide? It is what it is and it was unforgettable.

I’m still struggling to find words to describe just how amazing this retreat and hosts were. It was challenging, insightful, inspiring, exhausting, honest, beautiful, relaxing, and painful. I signed up unsure what to expect and it allowed me to let my guard down and commit 100%. It was exactly what I needed and provided it in the right setting and timeline. On my own I never would have gotten out of my comfort zone or my head in such a way to fully allow for peace and clarity. I know myself more now and how much truly lies all within me. Chi has a sincere lightness to him and I hope he writes a book someday. Chia should too, of all her delicious recipes!

I signed up for this retreat because I was sick of several of my coping mechanisms. What I met was both a challenge to meet myself guided by the dynamic daily rhythm designed to facilitate walking that path, while confronting the sneaky and comfort seeking ego. Thanks to the yin and Yang guidance of Chi and Chia for providing exactly the setting and practices that are needed in order to acknowledge that which no longer serves me. The hard part is realizing that the years of hard work put in by Chi and Chia provided such a setting and space that is only seemingly effortless. I am grateful and humbled by the experience, and I recommend for those that are eager to sit with the truth.