BIYOME Evening Dark Retreat

Join Celia Roberts BSc for a profound evening immersion into the ancient practice of dark retreat, inspired by the teachings of Tibetan Master Namkhai Norbu and Dr. Andrew Holecek, renowned scholar of Tibetan Buddhism, lucid dreaming, and meditation. Holecek describes dark retreat as “meditation on steroids”. Dark Retreat is a powerful method of inner exploration, growth, and awakening, with the dark being considered such a valuable feminine teacher. Darkness has long been revered for its ability to restore balance, quiet mental noise, and awaken the luminous mind (prabhāsvarā). In the Tibetan tradition, dark retreat (mun mtshams) is closely associated with advanced Dzogchen practices such as yangti, where time in complete darkness is used to deepen awareness and accelerate contemplative insight. Contemporary research supports these traditional insights, showing that extended time in darkness influences circadian rhythms, alters melatonin and DMT levels, and produces measurable effects on brain and body states, facilitating deep rest, perceptual shifts, and transformative healing. It may help manage sensory processing challenges. At BIYOME, our Evening Dark Retreat Practice provides a safe and supportive environment to begin this path of night-time meditation. Through stillness, gentle movement, and guided contemplations, participants will directly experience how the absence of light can open new depths of clarity, non-dual awareness, self-realisation and spiritual awakening. Evening Program – Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 | 5.30pm – 8.30pm

• 5.30 – 6.00pm Evening Twilight Yoga Preparatory Practice
• 6.00 – 6.30pm Techniques for Lucid Dreaming & Dream Yoga
• 6.30 – 8.30pm Dark Retreat Meditation in complete darkness (restorative yoga postures provided; please bring a sleep mask Manta Pro Sleep mask recommendation here). One candle will gently light the room as required.

Location: BIYOME Investment: $148 Please bring a sleep mask, water, a pillow and layered clothing for warm and cold temperatures