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WE CARRY LIGHT
UNTIL THE LIGHT RETURNS
Date: June 12-14, 2026
A Women's Retreat
Rooted in Ways of Ancient Iran
Presented by:
DOORWAY TO JOY
Last day to register: May 10, 2026.
Location: Villa Maria Del Mar
21918 East Cliff Drive
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Together we will reflect on ancient Iranian spiritual teachings and practices, getting rooted individually while bringing light to the collective.
During our time together, we'll meditate, ponder and reflect while interweaving the ancient Gathaic ways with the modern way of living, interlacing the old with the new.
We will connect through music, movement, prayers, enjoying the beautiful nature,
rejuvenating old friendships while discovering new ones.
Once registered, you will receive a receipt/confirmation email from ActBlue.
Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
(This retreat is for Ages 21 & Over)
This program will be in English.
Persian is honored and accommodated when possible.
Limited Partial Scholarships are Available.
For Inquiries Contact:
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FAQs
What's the refund policy?
No refunds will be issued. If someone on the waiting list is able to take your spot, they may pay you directly. If the waiting list is unavailable, you are welcome to arrange an appropriate replacement who can assume your spot and remit payment to you.
What to bring?
- Yoga Mats (optional)
- Musical instruments (optional)
- Bring your toiletries. Hand soaps and towels are provided.
- Clean sheets & towels are provided.
What are the rooms like?
The rooms are simple and clean. Every room has a chair, and many have a writing desk: no telephones or TV.
What kind of meals are served?
Healthy, fresh food, including whole fruit any time, and a salad bar at lunch and dinner. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available. Please email: info@doorwaytojoy.org for any food needs.
A refrigerator and a microwave for your own food are available.
What to wear?
The dress code is comfortable and casual. We are right on Monterey Bay, so bring warm clothing. The ocean breeze or fog may arrive at a moment's notice.
No perfumes or perfume products recommended.
Is there WIFI accessibility?
Yes. However, we ask that you not use your cell phone or devices during common group activities, including dining.
Are there additional out-of-pocket expenses?
As a demonstration of appreciation for the venue staff, voluntary tips are encouraged.
In addition, in every retreat, voluntary donations for Zoroastrian causes have been raised and 100% distributed to that specific cause.
None of these contributions are mandatory; however, your generosity will be greatly appreciated and cherished by the receivers.
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Tentative Program
Arts & Crafts Tables Available During Free Times
Friday
4:00 pm Check-in
6:00-6:45 pm Dinner
7:00 pm *** Welcome Gathering ***
Saturday
7:20 am Guided Meditation
8:00-8:45 am Breakfast
9:15-10:30 *** Morning Gathering ***
10:45-11:45 am Yoga
12:30- 1:15 pm Lunch
1:15 pm - 4:00 pm Free Time
4:00 pm Candle Making/Beach
6:00-6:45 pm Dinner
7:00 pm *** Evening Gathering ***
Sunday
7:20 am Optional Guided Meditation
8:00-8:45 am Breakfast
9:30 am check out
10:00-11:30 *** Morning Gathering ***
12:00-12:45 pm Lunch
2:00 pm Departure
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Guidelines & Agreement:
To provide a safe and fun environment, we request all of our participants to agree to the following guidelines and to practice them during the retreat.
• I honor this safe space as a politics-free zone.
• I honor each woman’s unique path of spiritual practice, study, and beliefs.
• I hold sacred each individual’s present experience, knowing this is the perfect place for that one, at this time, for the ideal lesson to be embraced.
• I know that I need not try to fix anyone, only to be the quiet support as each woman shares from her heart.
• I will not interrupt anyone but will give my undivided attention to those who share.
• I will share myself authentically, allowing others plenty of space to share.
• I am not here to convince anyone of anything, including my beliefs, guidance, or experience.
• Let me remember to share in "first-person" – in other words, to communicate any information, not in a general, factual way, but from my own experience. For instance, “I believe” or “I feel” rather than “this is the way it is; this is the Truth”.
• I understand that sound of the bell, at times, will let anyone know they have a couple more minutes to wrap up any sharing.
• I hold all that is shared, in this group, in sacred confidentiality!
• I honor myself.
• I will make a special effort to stay aware of the schedule and to arrive on time for each experience.
• I am grateful for any gentle reminders.
Adopted from Women of Wisdom - http://womenofwisdomwow.com
Contribution rules
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