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SAHAJ SAMADHI MEDITATION
An effortless meditation technique that infuses the mind with peace, clarity and creativity.
Meditation for the busiest of minds
Happiness can seem elusive at times, a distant dream, or so fleeting you wonder where it went. The mind swirls around, crammed with thoughts. Disconnection and stress easily become the norm.
In today’s society, it is more important than ever to gain tools to connect to the wellspring of calm and peace within you, in the here and now. And that’s what meditation does. It gives you access to the stillness that resides deep within, a place that is steady, at ease, clear, and relaxed regardless of what’s happening around you. Science is now showing us what ancient yogis knew thousands of years ago, meditation works. And what’s even better? Anyone can meditate, even the busiest of minds!
Globally celebrated meditation master, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, will share with you ancient techniques for contemporary life, to enable you to fill up from the inside so when the inevitable challenges of life arise, your connection to the fullness, and steadiness within, remains.
Knowing how to manage the mind is fundamental to inner peace, joy, and a centered state of mind. When the mind is calm, everything in life gets sweeter—relationships improve, stress is reduced, mood lifts, and there is a greater sense of ease and joy each day.
Meditation
The Doorway to Happiness
“People search for joy everywhere not knowing that the Self is the source of all joy.”
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
“People search for joy everywhere not knowing that the Self is the source of all joy.”
Intellect vs Intuition
Frequently Asked Questions
Please click here to view all FAQs regarding admission, the venue, and accommodation etc.
13 Chem. de l`infinité
Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc
QC G0X 1N0, Canada
Phone: +1 819-532-3328
Email: info@artofliving.ca
From the Art of Living
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Tap into a time-tested technique practiced by thousands all around the world. You’ve tried everything to help you sleep, why not give VAST a try.
What do you have to lose?
Just you. The trees. And your breath.
43 Years
of transforming lives
10,000+ Centers
established worldwide
182 Countries
where our programs made a difference
800M+ Lives
touched through our courses & events
43 Years
of transforming lives
10,000+ Centers
established worldwide
182 Countries
where our programs made a difference
touched through our courses & events
800M+ Lives
Experience winter magic
in our peaceful forest sanctuary
Explore the Canadian
Art of Living Retreat Center
“...inspired me to live a better life”
“Sanyam is the most beautiful course I have ever experienced. It brought me an immense amount of energy and enthusiasm. In the beginning, I had so many questions and complaints in life, but they all disappeared after the course. It was truly transformative and has inspired me to live a better life. I feel like I am born again.”
Course Participant
Ketki
“...more than I could have ever imagined.”
“It was very, very powerful. I gained such a sense of calm, more than I could have ever imagined.”
Max
Course Participant
“...felt balanced, nourishing, and comfortable”
“I’ve been on quite a few silent retreats in the past and this felt more balanced, nourishing, and comfortable than any other retreat I’d been on.”
MIchelle
Course Participant
“
What people are sharing
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Your retreat experience is fully supported from the moment you arrive. Enjoy nourishing vegetarian meals each day, cozy accommodations (where applicable), and access to serene meditation spaces, all within a peaceful, nature-rich environment. Everything is thoughtfully arranged so you can let go of daily demands and focus inward.
→ They do! Especially during peak programs, onsite lodging is in high demand and often fills quickly. If you miss a spot, no worries - nearby options like Comfort Inn Shawinigan or local Airbnbs (some with added comforts like hot tubs) make excellent alternatives. You'll still be close enough to soak in the full retreat experience.
→ Yes, free parking is available at the main entrance of the retreat centre just off Highway 351. Complimentary shuttles run every 10–15 minutes between the parking area and the Centre daily. Overflow parking will be directed to the nearby Community Center with shuttle service provided.
Since parking spots are limited, though parking permits are not required, please register your vehicle at the time of program registration. This will help us to determine the number of spots required and plan accordingly.
→ Absolutely. We provide childcare for children ages 4–12 whose parents are registered for a program or registered as a volunteer. Kids enjoy creative play, crafts, games, and more—giving parents peace of mind to fully participate in their retreat. Childcare is avaliable from Dec 21 until 2pm on Dec 27.
*A separate registration is required for each child.
→ Yes, we do our best to accommodate dietary needs and preferences. Our kitchen can provide gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free options if selected during registration. If you have a severe allergy (such as celiac disease or a serious nut allergy), please email us at info@artofliving.ca in advance. While we strive to meet your needs, we do not operate a fully allergen-free kitchen and cannot guarantee zero cross-contamination.
→ We’d love to have you on the team. Volunteering is a meaningful way to contribute and deepen your experience. Just send a quick message to canada.seva@artofliving.ca, and our team will follow up with next steps.
→ Yes! Ayurvedic therapies can be scheduled in advance, and we highly recommend doing so as spots fill quickly during retreat weeks. You’ll also find Ayurvedic beauty and wellness products available at the Centre.
Book your Ayurveda appointment here
→ If your menstrual cycle is expected to coincide with the Sanyam-2 course dates, we recommend registering for a future program so you can fully benefit from the experience. Should your cycle begin during the course, you’ll need to pause participation in accordance with program guidelines and inform the reception desk as soon as possible.
You’ll receive a course credit to attend a future Sanyam-2 program. No refunds are available for Sanyam 2 course. Please note that accommodation and meal fees are non-refundable and non-transferable once the course begins, as these arrangements are prepaid. We understand that timing can be unpredictable and appreciate your understanding as we do our best to support your journey.
This spring, join your community at the Art of Living Retreat Center in Québec, Canada, for a unique opportunity to deepen your practice in Gurudev’s presence. Explore our curated packages and courses below. We look forward to welcoming you!
Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland
December 20–28, 2025
Canadian Retreat Centre, QC
A Holiday Retreat with Gurudev
Breathe, Meditate & Celebrate the Season of Joy!
Dec 20–28, 2025
Art of Living Retreat Centre, Canada
Dec 20–28, 2025
Art of Living Retreat Centre, Canada
यो गः कर्मसु कौ शलम् — Skill in Action is Yoga
Sañyam 2 is a specially designed program that is a combined practice of Dhāraṇā (concentration), Dhyāna (meditation) and Samādhi (union). The profound meditations of this program act as keys that open the doors to the blossoming of consciousness.
Gurudev, with his characteristic simplicity, humor and depth, accompanies us to experience the power of being an observer.
Discover our packages
In the heart of the breathtaking forests and waterways of La Mauricie, our retreat center provides a haven for stress relief and wellness with a rustic quiet that soothes the soul. We offer life-changing retreats alongside comfortable rooms, dedicated meditation spaces, and restorative Ayurvedic wellness treatments. Our commitment extends beyond your stay, with post-retreat support and research-backed practices designed to help you dive into a space of deep calm—and stay that way.
Meet Gurudev
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a globally renowned spiritual teacher, humanitarian, and peace ambassador who has uplifted millions through his wisdom, warmth, and breath-based meditation techniques.
For more than four decades, Gurudev has shared a simple yet profound message: that inner peace is the key to outer harmony. His teachings have empowered people across cultures to live with greater clarity, compassion, and resilience.
Every program offered here is rooted in the practices and philosophy Gurudev has shared with the world. His presence is felt in the silence, the breath, and the transformation participants experience.
Support Services
4-day Silent Retreat, Sanyam, Yoga Sutras
Patanjali Immersion
March 27-April 6
Sanyam, Yoga Sutras
Patanjali Sanyam
March 30-April 6
9-day Silent Retreat, Yoga Sutras
Patanjali 9
March 27-April 6
6-day Silent Retreat, Yoga Sutras
Patanjali 6
March 30-April 6
Register by March 20 to SAVE up to $300!
From Hustle to Harmony, Your Inner Holiday Starts Here
Guests travel from all over the globe join us, and we’ve made getting here easy. Whether you're flying into Montreal (YUL), driving in from nearby cities, or looking to carpool, there are options for every traveler. We also offer shuttle services and carpool forums to help you plan your journey with ease.
Accomodations
Sleep deeply. Awaken to winter's calm.
Our accommodations are designed with simplicity and serenity in mind, inviting rest, clarity, and inward reflection. Nestled in nature, rooms offer a quiet retreat from the distractions of daily life so you can fully immerse in your inner journey.
Choose from cozy shared rooms to private lodging, depending on your preference and availability. Each space is intentionally minimal, allowing the natural beauty of La Mauricie’s forested landscape to take center stage.
*Note: Onsite accommodations are limited and in high demand during retreats. If onsite rooms are full, we recommend booking with the nearby Comfort Inn Shawinigan or a local Airbnb. For those seeking a roommate or ride, see our Support Services section for carpool and offsite lodging forums.
Day & Evening Passes
Meals
Planning a shorter visit? Join us for just a day or an evening, and immerse yourself in the transformative energy of the retreat centre.
Note: Children aged 12 and under do not need to purchase a pass.
Nourishment that supports your transformation
All retreat packages include three wholesome vegetarian meals, lovingly prepared to support your meditation and wellness journey. From hearty breakfasts to grounding dinners, each dish is balanced, flavorful, and made with care using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Meals are served in a communal setting that invites quiet reflection or shared connection. For those with dietary needs, we offer options such as gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free menus - just let us know when you register.
In between meals, you can enjoy tasty snacks and warm beverages from the Sri Sri Café, open throughout the day for your comfort and convenience.
In the heart of the breathtaking forests and waterways of La Mauricie, our retreat center provides a haven for stress relief and wellness with a rustic quiet that soothes the soul. We offer life-changing retreats alongside comfortable rooms, dedicated meditation spaces, and restorative Ayurvedic wellness treatments. Our commitment extends beyond your stay, with post-retreat support and research-backed practices designed to help you dive into a space of deep calm—and stay that way.
Just you. The trees. And your breath.
In the uplifting presence of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a globally revered spiritual teacher and founder of the Art of Living Foundation, you’ll explore transformative practices in breathwork, meditation, and wisdom—tools that have uplifted millions around the world.
More than just a retreat, this is a reset for your body, mind, and spirit—a chance to release the noise of the past year, find stillness amid the beauty of winter, and step into the new year feeling lighter, clearer, and deeply centered.
Whether you’re seeking peace, purpose, or simply a meaningful way to begin 2026, this retreat offers the perfect space to breathe deeply, recharge fully, and celebrate the season of joy from within.
Join us for a delicious dinner and inspiring evening satsang.
For teens visiting in the evening, this pass includes dinner and satsang
Silence Retreat with Senior Art of Living Faculty
Withdraw from daily distractions and experience deep rest, inner stillness, and subtle transformation, guided by Gurudev’s signature Hollow & Empty meditations.
Eligibility: Art of Living Part 1 / SKY Breath Meditation
Note: while the course ends at 5:30 PM, you are welcome to stay back for dinner and evening music and meditation.
December 21–23
This 3-day retreat combines powerful breathwork and personalized Ayurvedic treatments for deep restoration. Learn and practice SKY Breath Meditation, a rhythmic breathing technique backed by 100+ studies for its impact on stress, emotional well-being, and health. You'll also experience Sahaj Samadhi, a mantra-based meditation that brings clarity and inner peace. Leave feeling lighter, clearer, and deeply renewed.
Eligibility: Open to all
Enjoy one-on-one Ayurvedic treatments tailored to your constitution and healing needs. Our experienced team is here to support your renewal journey.
Childcare
Dec 21-27
Roommate Matching
Access Forum here
Carpool
Access Forum here
Stay in touch
Join WhatsApp Channel for updates
From travel and lodging to food, kids, Ayurveda, and volunteer options - get all the info you need here:
Breathe, meditate and celebrate the season of joy
October 9–13, 2025
Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc, Québec
Join the #TryThisBreath challenge!
Embrace Winter Magic in our peaceful forest sanctuary.
The Art of Living
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Life
The Art of Living Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people live with more ease, purpose, and connection. Founded in 1981 by humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, we've uplifted over 800 million lives in more than 180 countries through practical tools like breathwork, meditation, and stress reduction techniques.
Step into a Winter Wonderland of renewal at the Art of Living Retreat Centre in Québec. Escape the rush of the holiday season, and gift yourself an experience of true rest, reflection, and joy.
Choose Your Holiday Retreat
December 20–28
Begin your journey in silence and move into stillness. This 8-day Full Immersion unfolds in two parts—starting with the Silence Retreat, where the mind quiets, awareness deepens, and the ground is prepared for subtler experiences to blossom.
From the depth of silence, transition into Sanyam 2 with Gurudev, a rare opportunity to explore higher states of awareness through profound meditations led by Gurudev.
This combined retreat offers a complete journey inward—from stillness to mastery, from rest to realization.
Join On-site Accommodation Waitlist
December 24–27
Panchakarma is Ayurveda’s ultimate detox—a time-tested process to cleanse the body, calm the mind, and restore natural balance. Guided by our expert Ayurvedic team, this immersive 4-day retreat offers personalized ayurvedic treatments, gentle yoga, meditation, and nourishing meals designed to revitalize you from the inside out. You’ll also receive a post-Panchakarma plan with customized herbal, diet, and lifestyle recommendations to help you sustain your renewed vitality and balance—long after the retreat ends. Leave feeling lighter, clearer, and deeply renewed.
Eligibility: Open to all
Registration opens TONIGHT at 9 PM ET
