Drumming and music-making are ancient ways of transcending our routine lifestyle, opening ourselves to spiritual realms of healing and creativity, which is experienced as liberating and rejuvenating. This is because the universe is a flux of pulsating rhythms and drumming connects us to these rhythms, thus facilitating a change in consciousness and a sense of belonging and well-being, which, in turn, promotes deep relaxation and healing. In this retreat, we will learn basic drumming techniques and explore rhythmic creativity  including a segment on Shamanic, Celtic, and Nordic Viking drum patterns which will be combined with meditation practice and contemplation. A Sound Journey meditation using exotic instruments will also be included. The objective of this retreat is to find a balance between the hands-on experience of drumming and its more profound spiritual effects on the human psyche.

Qigong involves using gentle exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind, and spirit, with the goal of improving and maintaining health and well-being and developing a calm, meditative state of mind.

Join Marc for daily sessions of qigong and enjoy the tranquil nurturing space of the BRC.

The practice of yoga brings the mind and body together, grounding us in the present, connecting us with where we are and what our body tells us about ourselves. Yoga is a process of re-connecting to our body and breath, coming back into the present moment. The ancient yogis realized that in order to be able to meditate effectively requires a healthy, strong body, so they developed yoga postures (asanas), cleansing techniques and breathing exercises (pranayama). Through regular practise of asanas, pranayama and meditation, yoga unlocks the deeper levels of our being. It is a way of moving into stillness in order to experience the truth of who we are. This retreat is open to beginners and experienced students. Please bring a yoga mat.

This 3-day retreat will focus on the practice of drawing freehand mandalas, and was developed over years of teaching practice. The archetypal form of the mandala helps on a number of levels in education, starting with the innate sense of geometry and harmony we can develop in the young child and in higher grades the practice itself which calls forth concentration. It is a wonderful tool to either centre a child who is lost in the periphery, or widening the horizon of a child who is clinging to their centre. The results are always beautiful and meaningful.

As a practice for adults, the mandala reveals a "snapshot" of our inner cosmos and allows us to create order and centeredness in place of chaos. Clémence will present her study of the mandala through human experience (religion, psychology, astronomy) and we will then explore the polarities of centre and periphery, curved and straight lines, order and chaos, through movement and drawing. We will follow several methods of structuring a mandala to experience the different results they produce in our inner space. No previous drawing experience is needed. Basic equipment, some colour mediums and papers will be provided. It is advised, however, to bring your favourite art medium and suitable paper (watercolour, acrylics, pencils, ink, charcoal) should you be already practised in artwork.

"Nature dwells in both directions, not just outside us. Our inner world is also nature. Our minds and bodies are manifestations of the evolution of the living earth.”  Rewilding - Micah Mortallis,

Through mindful movement and yoga - at times challenging and at times playful - we will ground ourselves into the body. Through mindfulness based meditation, with careful, considered attention and compassion, we will explore the mind. With joy, we will immerse ourselves in nature -  making simple crafts and playing games, teasing our inner child out - and  perhaps find a hidden gem.

Everybody experiences tranquility from time to time, because this open quality of mind is natural to us all. Yet, often our bodies and minds tighten and freeze to life’s challenges and stresses, even though creative solutions and expansive ideas are most likely to arise from a relaxed state. Healing Relaxation - designed by the late Akong Tulku Rinpoche, a wise Tibetan Buddhist healer - is a simple, highly practical, yet profound programme which helps people repair the strains and tensions resulting from the conditions of modern life, and prevents them from developing in the first place. Relaxation and awareness practices can enhance our ability to access calm, expansive states of mind intentionally throughout our day. In this workshop, we will explore the benefits of developing calmer states of mind, and learn effective relaxation, breathing and visualisation techniques.

The five elements provide a dynamic system of understanding life. They make up the world around us and are in all living organisms - only the proportions differ. When the elements are in balance there is ease and harmony, when out of balance there is dis-ease and disharmony. The balance is constantly changing within and around us.
To help us learn how to work with this ever-changing balance of the elements in a positive way, we first have to get to know them. In this retreat we will become familiar with the characteristics and qualities of each, and observe their interaction. At the same time, we learn to observe our mind-body states in relation to the elements. There will be guided relaxation and creative work around each element, including observation and creative activities. Optional gentle mindful movement before breakfast will be offered. Please bring loose, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

Imagination is more important than knowledge - Albert Einstein

As children,we possessed a vivid imagination as we lived in magical worlds of imagery. In our imagination, trees could become beings, and nature spirits could suddenly emerge from behind a tree. Even as adults, we can develop imagery that connects us with our inner strength, enhances our creative potential and supports us, developing skills to deal with uncertainties and a changing world. In this workshop you will learn how to use selected images to heal your heart and to develop meaningful tools, which will enhance your resilience and enrich your life. Guided walks in nature will help to fill you with positive energy and to meditate on your own future and the future of the world. This workshop is for everybody interested in diving into your imagination, and discovering inner pearls to cope with difficult life situations. Professionals - psychotherapists, social workers, educators - and anyone interested in health and well-being are welcome. By focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of imagery, this workshop aims to empower individuals and professionals to utilize imagery techniques for both - your clients and your personal life. The retreat will be followed by two zoom meetings supporting you to come home to yourself.

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding harmony can feel like an elusive dream. But what if we told you that balance is not only achievable but also transformative? Join on a journey to unlock the secrets of mindful living and conscious growth. From navigating work-life balance to nurturing relationships and personal well-being, discover practical tools to cultivate clarity, calmness, and insight. Through affirmations, meditation,journaling, visualizations, and more, immerse yourself in a soul-nourishing experience filledwith enriching discussions and deep rest. Together, let's tap into the power of our minds and forge meaningful connections. Let’s also connect with a growing community dedicated to awakening consciousness and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and conscious living and discover the limitless potential that resides within you.