Cameron's Staff Pick

Tantra: Freedom, Embodiment, and Transformation

Name: Tantra: Freedom, Embodiment, and Transformation
Start: 2025-08-08
End: 2025-08-13
Location: Hollyhock
Rating: 4.78

4.789 reviews

Cortes Island, Strathcona, BC, Canada

August 8 - 13, 2025

Retreat Highlights

Develop an embodied understanding of Tantra
Creatively explore your divine potential
Enjoy the benefit of overcoming negative projections and self-generated illusions
Learn practical modes of meditation, including internal visualization and externalization through mandalas

About this Retreat

Your Guides

Sravana

Keith

Sravana Borkataky-Varma

Sravana Borkataky-Varma is an expert in South Asian religions, with a focus on Hindu traditions. Her research delves into Indian religions, exploring esoteric rituals, gender themes, and bodily concepts, particularly within the Hindu Śākta Tantra traditions (commonly known as Goddess Tantra). She characterizes her research approach as AND, which integrates social anthropology—as viewed externally—with aspects of reflexive autoethnography—from a personal perspective. In her role as an educator, she serves as the Instructional Assistant Professor at the University of Houston and holds the position of Research Affiliate at Harvard University's Center for the Study of World Religions. Sravana has co-edited two volumes: Living Folk Religions and Religious Responses to the Pandemic & Crises: Isolation, Survival, and #Covidchaos. A co-written book, The Serpent's Tale: Kuṇḍalinī and the History of an Experience, and a third co-edited volume Embodied Pedagogy in Religion: Transforming the Classroom are forthcoming (2025). Finally, she is also working on her monograph Divinized Divas: Superwomen, Wives, Hijṛās in Hindu Śākta Tantra. Details of her other published works can be found on her website sravanaspeaks.com. Sravana dedicates her efforts to fostering communities comprised of individuals from diverse religious backgrounds who share a commitment to kindness, compassion, and a fulfilling life. She is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Esalen Institute and also serves on the Advisory Board of Compassionate Houston.

Keith Cantú

Dr. Keith Edward Cantú is a postdoctoral fellow in Asian Religious Traditions at the Center for the Study of World Religions, Harvard Divinity School, where he is active as part of the Transcendence and Transformation Initiative. As a budding historian of religions, his interdisciplinary research especially focuses on South Asian yoga, tantra, and the interface between Sanskrit and Indic vernacular languages, especially Bengali and Tamil, and on the connected histories of yoga in global esoteric currents like Thelema and the Theosophical Society. Prior to Harvard, he was Visiting Assistant Professor at St. Lawrence University in upstate New York. Keith’s first monograph Like a Tree Universally Spread: Sri Sabhapati Swami and Śivarājayoga was published in 2023 by Oxford University Press. He has also co-edited a volume of Baul songs and translations, published in 2017 as City of Mirrors: Songs of Lālan Sā̃i, and has authored numerous other articles and chapters on yoga- and esotericism-related topics. Current projects include reprinting and translating Tamil and Hindi works of Sri Sabhapati Swami and of his gurus, and a second monograph on the connected histories of yogic and magical practices in the Thelemic librae or instructional books of Aleister Crowley. Keith has extensively researched and directly engaged Baul Fakiri, Tamil Śaiva, and other tantric and musical currents over the course of his twelve years of fieldwork in and writing on India and Bangladesh. He regularly teaches and shares his research and music at the Esalen Institute and online at Yogic Studies.

Details of this retreat

Have you ever dived into the ocean of Tantra? Have you experienced the weaving of the world?

Join scholar-practitioners Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Keith Edward Cantú as we explore Tantric practices and perspectives on topics like freedom from external interference and self-sovereignty (Sanskrit svādhikāra), the link between physical and so-called “subtle bodies,” and the creation of physical mandalas (maṇḍala) or circles and other shapes that potentially can transform our internal and external environments.

Dare to engage the latest research and ethnographic “participant observation,” and to challenge and reframe your conventional understanding of what Tantra was, is, and can be. Immerse yourself with authentic South Asian folk musical performances, songs, and guided meditations for a creative, visceral experience for the mind, body, and heart. Allow our collective and individual practices to illuminate Tantra’s connections, by means of a wide variety of vibrant artistic and meditative practices and in an eye-opening and unforgettable way.

We invite both couples and individuals to join us in this workshop that blends meditation, art, and music with a holistic inquiry into Tantra’s power and therapeutic potential to unlock a happier and more fulfilling life. Bring an open mind as we explore deep questions about our bodies and minds in a safe space and nurturing environment.
Program Highlights

Develop an embodied understanding of Tantra
Creatively explore your divine potential
Enjoy the benefit of overcoming negative projections and self-generated illusions
Learn practical modes of meditation, including internal visualization and externalization through mandalas

Noteworthy

Both individuals and couples are welcome to join.
This workshop is NOT about “Tantric Sex” or experiencing enhanced sexual pleasures, although many discussions will address gender identity and sexuality.

Testimonials
"Thank you - I reach out to you in my meditations and yoga - finding both mind and body fully restored as I come to terms with amending my busy professional life to allow for whatever is yet trying to unfold." – Elizabeth S.

"I felt Kamakhya Devi fierceness and Shiridi Sai Baba’s compassion in the mystical energy portal created by both of you ... One of my best meditation experiences 🙇🏻" – Harish R.
Daily Schedule
A detailed schedule will be emailed to you about 30 days prior to your program. Click here to view a sample program schedule.

Read More

Schedule

A detailed schedule will be emailed to you about 30 days prior to your program. Click here to view a sample program schedule.

Note: Schedule is approximate and may change

Hollyhock, Cortes Island, Strathcona, BC, Canada

Directions

Our address is: 445 Highfield Road, Manson’s Landing
Cortes Island, B.C. V0P 1K0 Canada

There are a variety of ways to get here. They include:

Seaplane:
1 hr from Vancouver
2 hrs from Seattle

Fly & Water Taxi:
2 hrs from Vancouver
3 hrs from Seattle

Roadtrip
Approx 6 hrs from Vancouver
Approx 10 hrs from Seattle

Public Trnsport (Ferry)
Approx 6 hrs from Vancouver
Approx 10 hrs from Seattle

Other ideas:

Rideshare:
Lighten your footprint and cost by sharing a ride with a fellow Hollyhock traveler – you might make a new friend! Create a free account on our secure Ride Share Board.

Electric Charging Station:
We are proud to offer an electric vehicle charging station on campus. Plan your stops with PlugShare.

Hollyhock Shuttle:
Complimentary for Onsite guests to and from ferry, seaplane, water taxi and ferries. Read More

Accommodation

A variety of accommodations are located throughout our lush campus, ranging in price to suit most budgets. Choose from private, beachfront or ocean facing rooms, dorm-style lodging or cabins that nestle in the quiet seclusion of the forest. Our beautiful campsites are also available, with a cedar bath house conveniently located for your use. Room fees include all Hollyhock basics, like stimulating presenter evenings, delicious, organic meals, morning yoga/meditation classes, guided naturalist walks and tours of the garden, as well as luxurious soaks in our ocean-view hot-tubs. Telephones and wireless Internet are centrally located. Room Options Include: Single: 1 Person Twin: Couple or Friends, 2 beds. Couple: Couples or Friends sharing 1 bed. Family/Friends: 3 or more adult friends or family /2 beds Dorm: Up to 6 people/bunk beds Tenting with full-service bath house (bring your own tent and bedding) Roommates can be assigned, upon request, in twin and dorm rooms only.

Private Cabin Oceanfront

This prized cabin includes one queen bedroom, a common area with fireplace and couch, mini-kitchen, private bathroom, and deck overlooking the ocean. Located on our water's edge with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding Desolation Sound. We have property wide complimentary WiFi. Read More

Single w/ensuite Oceanfront

Located on our water's edge with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding Desolation Sound. These rooms include a queen bed and your own private bathroom. The building has a shared kitchen and living space, with a large deck on the ocean side. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Single w/ensuite

Spacious rooms with a queen bed and private bathroom. Enjoy your own space immersed in nature and the surrounding views. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Single w/shared bathroom

These cozy private rooms have a shared bathroom, and some rooms have a small desk. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Couple w/ensuite Oceanfront

Located on our water’s edge with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding Desolation Sound. These luxurious rooms include your own private bathroom. The building has a shared kitchen and living space, with a large deck on the ocean side. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. *For couples attending separate programs, please advise in the comment section. Your reservation will be adjusted and you will receive an updated confirmation. Read More

Couple w/ensuite

These spacious rooms have a queen bed with a private bathroom. Enjoy your own space immersed in nature and the surrounding views. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. *For couples attending separate programs, please advise in the comment section. Your reservation will be adjusted and you will receive an updated confirmation. Read More

Couple w/shared bathroom

These cozy private rooms have a queen or double bed and a shared bathroom. Some rooms have a small desk. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. *For couples attending separate programs, please advise in the comment section. Your reservation will be adjusted and you will receive an updated confirmation. Read More

Twin w/ensuite oceanfront

This room has two double beds and will be shared by two people. Your room mate will be chosen at random based on gender, or you can request to share with someone you know. The room is located on our water’s edge with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding Desolation Sound, and includes a private bathroom. The building has access to a kitchen and living space with a large deck on the ocean side. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Twin w/ensuite

These rooms have two beds and will be shared by two people. You can share with someone you know or your room mate will be chosen at random based on gender. They are spacious and modern with a queen bed, twin bed, or sofa pull out, and include a private bathroom. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Twin w/shared bathroom

These rooms have two beds and will be shared by two people. You can share with someone you know or your room mate will be chosen at random based on gender. Nested in ferns and blackberry bushes, these cozy and rustic rooms have a shared bathroom. Please be advised some have an external bathhouse. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Three-share w/shared bathroom

These rooms have three beds and will be shared by three people. Your room mates will be chosen at random based on gender, or you can request to share with someone you know. This comfortable room surrounded by lush green forest has one double bed and two twin beds. A small kitchenette with a small fridge is available. The bathroom is shared with another room. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. Read More

Women Dorm

Rustic and cozy, our dorms are our most economical room option. This dorm can accommodate up to 6 people and has its own washroom. This option is for female-identified people only. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. All dorm beds are assigned, please ask the reception desk first if you would like to switch beds. In consideration of other participants in your dorm, if you require an alarm clock, please bring a battery-powered one with no audible noise. If sound may keep you awake, we recommend bringing ear-plugs with you to ensure a good-night’s rest. If you are a loud snorer, the dorms may not be suitable for you. Read More

Men's Dorm

Rustic and cozy, our dorms are our most economical room option. This dorm can accommodate up to 4 people and has its own washroom. This option is for male-identified people only. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. All dorm beds are assigned, please ask the reception desk first if you would like to switch beds. In consideration of other participants in your dorm, if you require an alarm clock, please bring a battery-powered one with no audible noise. If sound may keep you awake, we recommend bringing ear-plugs with you to ensure a good-night’s rest. If you are a loud snorer, the dorms may not be suitable for you. Read More

Mixed Dorm

Open to all! Rustic and cozy, our dorms are our most economical room option. This dorm can accommodate up to 6 people and has its own washroom. We have property wide complimentary WiFi, the signal varies from room to room. All dorm beds are assigned, please ask the reception desk first if you would like to switch beds. In consideration of other participants in your dorm, if you require an alarm clock, please bring a battery-powered one with no audible noise. If sound may keep you awake, we recommend bringing ear-plugs with you to ensure a good-night’s rest. If you are a loud snorer, the dorms may not be suitable for you. Read More

Tent Site Single

For nature lovers, set up your tent near cedars and reconnect with nature. Bathhouse nearby with showers and toilets. Bring your own tent, towels, and all appropriate camping gear. Due to fire safety, cooking on campsites is not permitted. Three meals a day from the Hollyhock kitchen are included in your total cost. Please be aware that this area is accessed by walking paths only. There may be uneven terrain in the forest. Stoves, campfires, and recreational vehicles are not allowed on campus. Read More

Tent Site Couple

Commuter

Staying off-site. Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and unlimited use of the property’s facilities. If you prefer to have no breakfast or only lunch, please check the appropriate box in your registration form under the commuter question. Lunch is $31 and Dinner is $63 per day, plus tax. Your package and pricing will be updated manually and you will get a second confirmation when we have updated your package. Please call us if you have any questions or would like a different meal arrangement: 1.800.933.6339 Read More

Venue & Amenities

A/C in Rooms

Free Wifi

Spa

Sauna

Pool

Towels

Free Parking

Kitchen

Tour Assistance

Hot Tub

Coffee/Tea

Cafe

Restaurant

Fitness Center

Yoga Studio

Housekeeping

Bicycles For Rent

Hollyhock sits on the traditional territories of the Klahoose, Tla’amin, Homalco Nations. We are committed to renewing our relationships with the First Nations peoples on whose territories we are guests.

Since 1982 Hollyhock has built upon the history of this land as a place of gathering, a pioneering homestead, and the site of an important human potential education centre. On this foundation of gathering, pioneering and learning, Hollyhock’s founders dreamed of creating a lifelong learning and leadership curriculum to inspire, nourish and support people intent on service to a better world.

Hollyhock became a not-for-profit in 2006 to strengthen carrying out our mission into the future. With your help we can keep this as a thriving centre for skill-building, lifelong learning and stewardship of the natural world, inspiring, nourishing and supporting people making the world better for another 30+ years. Read More

Meals

Menu Types

Vegan

Vegetarian

Pescetarian

Ayurvedic

Includes Meat

Organic

Gluten Free

Dairy Free

Nut Free

A feast for the senses! Renowned fresh, sumptuous food has made our Hollyhock kitchen famous. Our French-Intensive garden supplies vegetables, herbs, fruit, and flowers to each meal, gracing your table with food that is nourished with care every step of the way. Our healthy, organic, vegetarian fare features ingredients from our abundant gardens located just outside our kitchen door, and well as local BC foods. Meals at Hollyhock are globally-inspired and prepared with love and skill in our Hollyhock kitchen. Enjoy weekly wild seafood dinners and beach-side oyster appetizer barbecues. We serve organic grains and organic produce sourced locally, whenever possible. Organic herbs, flowers, greens, and vegetables are harvested daily from the Hollyhock garden. Our orchard produces many beautiful fruits featured on the dessert menu seasonally and served in our 24/7 fruit bowl offering. Our meals are created and served “family style”. Read More

What's Included

Standard program tuition
Room
Meals
Access to hot tubs, sauna, and Hollyhock activities

What's Not Included

Travel costs
Healing arts
Bodywork
Store purchases
Optional additional excursions (kayaking, SUP, sailing)

Customer Reviews

4.78 out of 5.0 average rating

Elizabeth • Nov 21, 2021

5.0

Verified

Tantra: Living Presence and Prana

I really enjoyed the course. I felt a great release and opening in my body, calming of the mind and a new awareness of holding patterns in my body. Thank you Maitreyi Yogacharini and Hollyhock! I am looking forward to the recorded session as I would like to follow the practice again. Read More

Natalie • Jun 27, 2021

4.0

Verified

Profoundly grateful!

Hollyhock's virtual Activate Summit was a much needed breathe of fresh air. The program gave me the chance to harvest and claim the long-forgotten power I have within, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders to emerge - as an individual and as part of a community - able to shape the future, inwards out. The depth of knowledge and understanding of workshop leaders and plenary speakers made the program that much stronger - I only wish it was longer! Read More

S.Portico • Sep 24, 2019

5.0

Verified

The Healing is Part of the Journey

Do not let the planes, ferries, shuttles, or taxis required to reach Hollyhock deter you. This is part of the magic of the place. By the time you arrive much of what you need to leave behind has been untethered into one of those named transportation devices. The setting is astounding. The overall vibe is that everyone is happy to be there, and happy to have you among them. Read More

Leslie • Sep 22, 2019

5.0

Verified

seriously funny, in writing and in life

Great session! Not too large, not too small. Our group came together with just the right energy and the retreat centre provided the serenity and safety to let us be both serious and crazy.
Hollyhock is well known for its beauty of location, but even better known for the delicious dishes its amazing staff serve up. And equally famous for its bread...both gluten and gluten free.
Best of all...inter conversations between everyone attending concurrent sessions. Just pick a table and jump in. This is where lifelong friendships happen.
In this crazy world it's reassuring to know that Hollyhock is there.
Thank you.
Did I mention the view from the outdoor Hot tub? Or the oyster roast on the beach? Yum! Read More

Odette • Sep 04, 2019

5.0

Verified

connection, skill building

The Podcast from Hear was an audio storytelling program at Hollyhock. How much honesty and strength a circle of women can have, multiplied by the setting. We shared and grew, our group of diverse identities and experiences. Young empowered women and courageous professionals and artists of decades of expertise. Poets, scientists, Indigenous artists, sound engineers, soundscape artists, audio storytellers, professors of journalism and writing~ we had it all, we shared openly and with great heart.
I strongly recommend this amazing program!
https://hollyhock.ca/p/909/podcasting-the-story-from-hear/ Read More

Tantra: Freedom, Embodiment, and Transformation

Retreat Highlights

About this Retreat

Your Guides

Sravana Borkataky-Varma

Keith Cantú

Details of this retreat

Schedule

Getting Here

Directions