Teachings in the art of tranquility
Sought after by all, the notion of peace sits at the very heart of Annan, and it is the meaning of the brand’s Sanskrit-derived name. It also forms the inspiration of an enlightening three-night retreat, Journey to Peace, which will take place at Aman New York from 23-27 January 2023. Dedicated to teaching individuals to rediscover this elusive state, Journey to Peace is a unique spiritual retreat intuitively and lovingly led by long-term Annan collaborator and renowned Buddhist monk and mindfulness coach, Master Geshe YongDong (Geshe La).
The Journey to Peace retreat at Annan New York has been curated as an emotional journey, with Geshe La guiding individuals through different stages to achieving a healthier and happier life. Geshe La will focus on five hey elements; changing perceptions, letting go of attachment to find acceptance, calm breath, calm mind, living mindfully and healing anger. Each day of the retreat will include Tsa Lung breathwork and meditation practice, as well as chanting sessions and mantra meditation. Accommodation and breakfast are included, alongside one 90-minute Signature Spa Treatment. At the end of the retreat, there will be a closing lunch with Geshe La, offering guests further opportunity to draw on his wisdom before departure.
Born in Tibet in 1969, Geshe La became a monk at just 13 years of age when he entered the Nangzhig Bonpo Monastery. A gifted scholar, he was awarded the Rajampa Geshe Degree (Doctorate of Divinity) — the highest possible monastic degree – in 1992. He also studied and practised under many masters including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, as well as His Holiness Menri Trizin. Today, Geshe La teaches philosophy and YungDrung Bon Buddhism, and is one of only a handful of masters in the tradition worldwide. For over twenty years, Geshe La has taught in many spiritual centres and universities around the world and is the founder and spiritual director of Sherab Chamma Ling and Bon da Ling, spiritual centres in British Colombia and Costa Rica. He is vice president of the International Tibetan non-sectarian Buddhism organisation and has published several books including Calm Breath, Calm Mind.
Outside the retreat, guests can enjoy access to Annan New York’s unparalleled facilities. Offering an oasis of calm, the vast 2,320 square-metre (25,000 square-feet) Annan Spa encompasses three floors of the building. Here, guests can relax in the sumptuous lounge. Beyond lies a serene 20-metre (65-feet) heated indoor swimming pool, lined with double daybeds and roaring fireplaces. Guests can also enjoy the exquisite dining venues including Italian restaurant Arva, Japanese restaurant Nama, and a year-round Garden Terrace, as well as a subterranean Jazz Club offering world-class entertainment.