A Spiritual Full Moon Retreat at Amanjiwo
Named ‘Peaceful Soul’ for the serenity of its setting in Central Java’s cultural heartland, Amanjiwo is a hidden jewel for those seeking a restful retreat to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with loved ones and one’s inner self. Inspired by the rich spiritual culture of Java, the resort is delighted to introduce the Candra Kirana Celebration, a series of two-night spiritual-wellness experiences hosted by renowned spiritual and cultural practitioners Joko Triagung, Sugeng Karyanto and the resort’s own Resident Anthropologist, Patrick Vanhoebrouck. These experiences take inspiration from the commemoration of the full moon day or known as purnama, a holy day that is showered with an abundance of blessings.
Commencing from 16 – 18 January 2022, guests are invited to join in a curated journey, immersing themselves in captivating cultural experiences, fascinating spiritual wellness sessions and inspiring lectures on the history of Shiva Buddha Tantra, as well as participating in a ‘Pradakshina’ ceremony during the day of purnama.
Both guests and non-residents have the option to take part in one of the activities of the retreat or join the entire two-day itinerary.
The spiritual wellness experience at Amanjiwo will continue throughout the year, held every quarter for guests to take part in. The Candra Kirana Celebration in May 2022 will coincide with the celebration of Vesak Day, and the celebration in October 2022 will be in conjunction with the second Celebration of Ancient Wisdom. These events are curated in a special three-night spiritual-wellness experiences for a more elevated holistic journey into one’s self-healing.
SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT
Meaning Beautiful Moon in Javanese language, the Candra Kirana Celebration commences with the presence of monks at the lobby of Amanjiwo who chant gracefully to show devotion to the Buddhist teachings.
In the evening, guests are invited to become entrenched in the stories and history of the famed temple of Borobudur during an engaging session with Patrick Vanhoebrouck and continue the night with a dinner at Pak Bilal’s House for an enchanting glimpse of Javanese rural life while absorbing the authentic aromas of Java as a traditional menu is prepared over charcoal burners.
The day of purnama on the second day begins in the morning with a walk around the Borobudur temple known as ‘Pradakshina’, led by the monks from Veluvana Vihara exclusively for Amanjiwo and followed by the releasing of white doves, an honour to the traditional Buddhist ritual.
Back at the resort, take in the views over the rice fields to Borobudur and volcano-fringed horizon while indulging in a sumptuous breakfast at The Restaurant.
After lunch, guests can join a meditation session, Tapa Brata, with Joko Triagung and Patrick Vanhoebrouck, at Goa Kiskendo in the Menoreh Hills, comprising hermitage sites maintained by the Sultanate of Yogyakarta.
Alternatively, guests can choose to book a 90-minute Javanese healing session with Sugeng Karyanto, a Javanese spiritual practitioner of the ancient lineage of Jawadwipa, the supposed original spirituality of Java. The journey continues in the evening with Purnama Siddhi meditation by the tranquil main pool led by Patrick Vanhoebrouck and Sugeng Karyanto to prepare for a restful night under the full moon in the suites of Amanjiwo.
