Casey had been regularly updating her friends and family while she was at the retreat. They say she was excited to tell them about her trip and to return home. Casey’s mother, Colette Seymore, told CBS News she received a photo of the beach and a text from her daughter on June 18 that read: “I miss you, mom. I miss you. Look, I’m at the beach.”
That was the last time she heard from her daughter.
“I believe Taylor is in danger because she was eager to share her yoga retreat experience with others upon her return,” Seymore wrote in the news release. “Taylor would never disappear like this.”
Where is Paradise Island?
The ashram is on Paradise Island, a small island connected to downtown Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, by bridges that are one-third of a mile long. Nassau is on the island of New Providence.
Paradise Island is home to many tourist-friendly spots, including the Atlantis Paradise Island resort and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Bahamas.
It is also the setting of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, which Taylor was attending.
What is the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat?
Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat uses the combined practices of a traditional ashram — a spiritual monastery commonly found in India — and a modern yoga center. The ashram hosts dozens of programs and vacations throughout the year. Casey was participating in the ashram’s yoga certification program, according to the post from the center.
The ashram teaches Sivananda-style yoga and has a strict daily schedule including meditation, breathing practices, yoga postures and learning, according to the organization’s website. The ashram was opened in 1967 by Swami Vishnudevananda, a disciple of yoga master Swami Sivananda. Vishnudevananda opened a number of yoga centers in the West inspired by Sivananda’s teachings.
What’s the latest on the investigation?
Police searched around the retreat but have since expanded their search area, Skippings said, adding that police are also looking through CCTV footage. Investigators have spoken to a number of people at the ashram and will continue to do so, she said. They have also been in touch with Casey’s family. Her mother plans to travel to the island to help with the search, the family said in its news release.
Skippings reminded the public that they can remain anonymous and still report information to help the investigation at 242-300-8476.
“That’s the most important thing for us right now,” Skippings said. “We want to find Taylor.”
Kim Bellware contributed to this report.
Elaine Hadley is a dedicated journalist covering the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. news. With a keen interest in politics and a commitment to uncovering the truth, she provides insightful commentary and in-depth analysis on domestic issues. When not reporting, Elaine enjoys exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of the United States.
