The M.T.O. Sufi Association® Tamarkoz® retreat, with this year's theme of "Celebrating Life!," took place from May 26 - 29 2016 at the M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi® Sacramento retreat center. The attendees were students and young professionals from all across North America, many of whom had never met before. The group participated in workshops, Tamarkoz, zikr, and even a rafting trip on the American River. Over the course of the weekend and through retreat activities, a beautiful bond was formed; a sense of sisterhood and brotherhood that stemmed from inner peace, joy, and wellbeing. Many of the attendees reported that this retreat was one of their best experiences as each workshop further cultivated positive emotions, reduced stress, and enhanced self-awareness. In addition certain sessions focused on creative event planning to further expand the goals and objectives of the Sufi Association, which consist of cultivating awareness of Islamic Sufi teachings of self-knowledge. The timing of the retreat was perfect as it coincided with a week before the Holy Month of Ramadan. This encouraged participants to begin an internal cleanse as they embark to discover their true self.