In January 2025, acclaimed singer-songwriter SZA embarked on a transformative ten-day silent retreat in India with her mother, Audrey. The experience, known as the “Samyama,” was led by spiritual leader Sadhguru and emphasized deep meditation and self-reflection.
Reflecting on her journey during a press interview at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, SZA shared, “Not everything has to be said, and waiting is really important.” She emphasized that much of life’s drama and chaos stems from our reactions. By seeking joy persistently, she believes it will eventually manifest.
Finding Inner Peace Amidst Turmoil
SZA highlighted the importance of introspection, especially during challenging times. “Even in the darkest and craziest depths of existence and life and trauma… it’s more important now than ever to be able to go within yourself and find that solitude,” she noted. She expressed a desire to cultivate inner peace to share it with the world.
On Instagram, SZA documented her retreat, sharing images of herself in an orange sari and moments from her journey. She described the experience as profound and chaotic, mentioning the absence of phones, mirrors, and eye contact for over eight days. “For a fundamental yapper I lost my mind… then found it,” she wrote.
Upon returning, SZA felt overwhelmed by both global events and personal matters. However, she found a sense of calm amidst the chaos, attributing it to her newfound inner peace. She hopes to spread this tranquility to those around her.
At the Grammy Awards, SZA won Best R&B Song for “Saturn” from her album “SOS Deluxe: Lana.” Reflecting on her achievements, she humorously noted, “So funny to think I have 5 of these… good thing I didn’t win 7 years ago… I’d have missed the whole point!” She expressed gratitude for the journey and the lessons learned along the way.
SZA’s retreat underscores the value of introspection and patience. Her experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of seeking inner peace in today’s fast-paced world.