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Holistic Living
Sunburst: Awakening Souls
by Barbara McCaughey and Valerie King
Hope. Peace. Change. These words strike a deep chord in our troubled world. Where can the community of humankind find the peace it seeks? How can each of us be a catalyst for healing and transformation for ourselves and one another in these anxious times?
If we truly desire lasting change, we must first begin with ourselves. We are all cells in the great body of humanity; what each one experiences influences everyone. Sunburst’s retreat center and cooperative communities are dedicated to helping souls discover the divine light and wisdom within, and bring these qualities into daily life, becoming good stewards of the earth and one another.
Sunburst was founded in l969 by Norman Paulsen, a direct disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the spiritual classic, Autobiography of a Yogi. From this great teacher, Paulsen learned the art and science of Kriya Yoga meditation. Through his lifelong desire to personally know God and by the practice of daily devotional meditation, in l952, Paulsen experienced the awakening of the Pure Self of his soul, merging with the omnipresence of Spirit. The inspiration of this transformational encounter ignited his desire to share the infinite love and joy of Spirit, and bear witness to the possibility of this experience for every man, woman and child who sincerely desired it. This vision and purpose gave birth to Sunburst, which includes a sanctuary and retreat center, as well as residential communities based upon meditation and conscious living. Paulsen’s life journey and the challenges he faced are recorded in his autobiography, Christ Consciousness – Emergence of the Pure Self Within.
The Sanctuary is located on a pristine stretch of land along Scenic Highway 1, about 40 miles north of Santa Barbara. Guests are welcome year-round for personal retreats. Over 2000 acres lend themselves to exploration by walking or biking, and abundant wildlife delights both those who venture away from their private cabin, or just choose to sit on the porch and fine-tune their experience with nature.
Treat yourself to the deep sweetness of an early morning meditation with Sunburst residents, or visit the lovingly tended organic vegetable garden and enjoy a bite to eat. Maintain or begin a wellness practice in the yoga area and well-equipped gym. A labyrinth designed in the Hopi tradition, which is said to promote a peaceful, balanced feeling, is situated in an expansive field with a sweeping view of the countryside. Many enter that sacred space with a prayer of intention or desire for guidance from within.
If you visit on the weekends, you may enjoy the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service, including devotional music, a short inspirational talk, and quiet time for meditation and prayer. A delicious homemade meal follows, with lots of good food and conversation. For those who enjoy longer silent meditations, the sanctuary lodge is quiet on Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., and participants can come and go during that time.
Sunburst has a long history of organic farming and earth stewardship. Recently, two residents completed a certification course in permaculture. A land-renewing project based on permaculture principles is planned for 2009 that will allow guests to experience an extended stay in a service exchange relationship. To work alongside kindred souls is a particular blessing.
About once a month, Sunburst offers a themed retreat or workshop. Yoga and self-realization exercises are taught during many of these events. The menu of classes varies, but all are geared toward personal and planetary transformation. Twice a year, Sunburst Kriya Yoga meditation retreats are offered, the next one starting on New Year’s Eve. An annual Spring Renewal retreat nurtures “body/mind” health to allow the soul qualities to emerge, as a flower would to the sun.
A Sacred Astrology Workshop teaches awareness of the planetary bodies which magnetically influence our own body of light, and provides tools to keep an objective outlook through life’s ups and downs. A Fall Harvest Weekend offers participants inspirations and techniques of organic farming, gardening, composting, orchard care and cooking. The Native American Flute Workshop answers the call to “make me an instrument,” as participants experience the breath to be soothing and enlightening, as well as capable of producing beautiful sound.
From December 31 through January 4, 2009, meditation instruction in the Kriya tradition will be offered during the annual Light & Renewal Retreat. Beginning with energizing exercises and conscious breath and movement, techniques will be given to bring the body/mind into states of peaceful yet concentrated relaxation and visualization. These prepare you to receive the transformative Kriya meditation instruction, a powerful and effective tool for awakening the divine light and presence within.
In the words of Norman Paulsen, “We are entering an age on this planet when effective tools of meditation will give each individual the ability, according to their own will and desire, to go within and meet the Divine face to face. What a fantastic thing it is to discover this divine consciousness this Great Being which is each one of us!”
Whether you are looking for a peaceful personal retreat, the inspiration of spiritual friendship, or to further your inner awakening, Sunburst awaits your discovery.For more information visit www.SunburstOnline.org, or call 805.736.6528, or e-mail ContactUs@SunburstOnline.org.