A four-day residential spiritual retreat at Seth MR Jaipuria School, Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, held from 23rd March to 26th March 2025. It was a transformative experience for around 60 students from classes 6th to 9th. Centred around the profound teachings of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, the retreat focused on the four Soul Forces: Wisdom, Strength, Harmony, and Perfection. Rahul, Palak and Neel on behalf of SAFIER, the integral education initiative of Sri Aurobindo Society, along with the Team from Seth MR Jaipuria School, facilitated the Retreat. Through an immersive journey of self-exploration and collective learning, students engaged in activities designed to deepen their understanding and experience of these inner forces.
Day 1: Aspiration – Igniting the Inner Flame: The retreat commenced with the theme of Aspiration, symbolized by Agni—the inner flame of yearning for higher consciousness. Through guided meditations, reflective discussions, and creative expression, students were encouraged to kindle their inner fire and set personal intentions for the retreat. This day laid the foundation for an inward journey, inspiring students to aspire towards their highest potential. The day also included cooperative fun-filled outdoor games, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among the students.
Day 2: Self-Enquiry – Exploring Wisdom and Strength: The second day was dedicated to Self-Enquiry, a deep dive into the soul forces of Wisdom and Strength. The day began with an invigorating yogasana session, helping 
students cultivate awareness and inner balance. Activities included contemplative exercises, storytelling, and interactive workshops that encouraged students to question, reflect, and recognize their inner Wisdom. Then, Strength, at the level of physical, vital and mental, was explored through dynamic group exercises, emphasizing resilience, courage, and determination. The students learned that true wisdom arises from self-awareness and that strength is not just about power but about endurance and the ability to uphold truth. Cooperative fun outdoor games were also organized, further reinforcing the spirit of teamwork and joyful learning.
Day 3: Synthesis – Discovering Harmony and Perfection: The third day was devoted to Synthesis, focusing on the forces of Harmony and Perfection. The morning began with a yoga session, encouraging mindfulness and inner harmony. This day highlighted the importance of balance—within oneself and in relationship with others. Through group discussions, team-building exercises, and artistic endeavors, students explored how harmony fosters unity, and perfection is not about flawlessness but about continuous progress. The idea that life itself is a field for perfection in action deeply resonated with the participants.
Day 4: Aspiration and Hope – Culmination with Deeply Moving Presentations: The final day was a culmination of aspiration and hope, where students reflected on their journey and integrated their learnings. The retreat concluded with a heartfelt presentation by the students, in the presence of their parents, showcasing their experiences and 
insights gained over the four days. This soulful presentation, filled with expressions of gratitude, personal stories, and creative performances, deeply touched everyone present, marking a meaningful closure to the retreat.
This spiritual retreat was an enriching experience that left a lasting impact on the students. By engaging with the four soul forces—Wisdom, Strength, Harmony, and Perfection—the participants not only explored their inner selves but also built a deeper connection with their peers and mentors. The retreat served as a stepping stone for their ongoing spiritual growth and self-discovery, instilling in them a sense of purpose and aspiration that will continue to guide them in their journey ahead.
