Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

TEACHER

Dr. Gabor Maté

Yoga with Vivi Letsou

& Esther Chang

DATES

June 14 - June 18, 2023

CATEGORY

Self-Healing

Transformation retreat

PRICE

From 1290€

Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

TEACHER

Dr. Gabor Maté

Yoga with Vivi Letsou

& Esther Chang

DATES

June 14 - June 18, 2023

CATEGORY

Self-Healing

Transformation retreat

PRICE

From 1290€

Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

TEACHER

Dr. Gabor Maté

Yoga with Vivi Letsou

& Esther Chang

DATES

June 14 - June 18, 2023

CATEGORY

Self-Healing

Transformation retreat

PRICE

From 1290€

Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

TEACHER

Dr. Gabor Maté

Yoga with Vivi Letsou

& Esther Chang

DATES

June 14 - June 18, 2023

CATEGORY

Self-Healing

Transformation retreat

PRICE

From 1290€

Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

TEACHER

Dr. Gabor Maté

Yoga with Vivi Letsou

& Esther Chang

DATES

June 14 - June 18, 2023

CATEGORY

Self-Healing

Transformation retreat

PRICE

From 1290€

Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

TEACHER

Dr. Gabor Maté

Yoga with Vivi Letsou

& Esther Chang

DATES

June 14 - June 18, 2023

CATEGORY

Self-Healing

Transformation retreat

PRICE

From 1290€

Beyond Trauma: Approaching Ourselves with Compassion

with Yogeswari & Gaiea Sanskrit

Our Invitation To You

Join Gabor Maté, M.D., internationally renowned authority on trauma & recovery,

and bestselling author, in this deeply healing and transformational retreat.  

Drawing from his latest book, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture,

Maté invites us to welcome all parts of ourselves by

re-examining our issues through the process of “Insightful Self-Inquiry”

and embracing them through the practice of “Approaching Ourselves with Compassion.”

Embodied practices of Yoga and Mindfulness Meditation will provide

daily support and joyful body-mind release.

Description of the Retreat

Moving Beyond Trauma: Approaching ourselves with Self-Compassion

"We can look at our distress or illness or affliction in two ways: as misfortunes of fate that be

fall us for no reason, or as manifestations of something in our life that needs to be understood and responded to with insight and compassion.

The first approach may lead to resignation, passivity or desperate resistance.

The second opens the pathway to healing."

The word crisis comes from the Greek Krisis, which means turning point in a disease, a watershed moment which can lead to either healing or death. In many spiritual traditions, a crisis is seen as an opportunity to experience more of reality and of ourselves, to live more truthfully, to wake up and see the world with fresh eyes. What is the wisdom that shines through the cracks of this crisis?

At this retreat, we will create a safe space together where we can meet beyond right and wrong, challenge old beliefs and step into new ways of being. 

We will reflect on and integrate the learning gained from “crisis” experiences or events of our life, and apply the wisdom we hold in our hearts, basic tool for transformation. 


In this retreat we will explore:

  • The confusion, disorientation and excitement that a moment of “crisis” stirs up
  • Teachings and practices for times of crisis from different wisdom traditions
  • Practical tools for recognizing and healing trauma
  • Cultivating Compassion through Self-Inquiry and Meditation
  • Nourishing relationships in times of uncertainly
  • Meeting and holding grief and loss
  • Embodied techniques for taking care of ourselves:  Breathing, Moving Mindfully, Yoga, Meditation 

Step 1—Cultivating Joy & Taking Care of Ourselves

Many activists who are trying to do good things for the world, suffer from energy depletion and burn out. While doing the hard work of giving our very best to our life and to this planet, it helps to remember to nurture ourselves and to keep watering the seeds of joy in us. This way the hard work of saving the planet, with all its enormity, actually becomes a joyful activity.

In this caretaking retreat, in the magical nature of Mani, activists and all those who would like to consider positive action in the world, are invited to join us in the daily healing practices of caretaking for ourselves while in community.

Daily Practices - Caretaking

  • Embodied Yoga & Restorative movement
  • Mindfulness Meditation
  • Silent Walking Meditation
  • Eating with Mindfulness
  • Touching the Earth
  • Circle Gatherings for sharing, exchange, inspiration

Step 2—Cultivating the Tools for Effective Activism

From this place of centeredness, we will cultivate the tools necessary to practice compassionate listening, sharing-circle on sustainability, surviving burn-out, and the secrets of staying present, strong, and effective on the path of action.

Tools for Building Effective Activism

  • Cultivating compassionate communication
  • Practicing Deep Listening
  • Cultivating Trust
  • Understanding & Embodying inter-connectedness
  • Practicing metta meditation (loving-kindness)
  • Living with Mindfulness
  • Building Bridges & Alliances based on the Ethics of Inter-being
  • Seeing with equanimity - stepping back from the eye of the storm
  • The intrinsic value of Spiritual Friendships
  • Setting Goals for Right Action and Beneficial Action
  • Practical Steps for Effective Activism
  • Connecting with the Source of Real Power
  • Ways to Stay Relaxed and Work with JOY
  • Understanding Ultimate Reality and stepping into Freedom
No items found.
LIVE @ ZEN ROCKS, MANI

KRISHNA DAS “LOVE EVERYONE”
KIRTAN CONCERT NIGHT

GET YOUR TICKET

DATE

Saturday, 10 June

TIME

20:30

PRICE

Early bird, 35€

Comments & Quotes

Naomi Klein, Author & Award-winning Journalist

“Gabor Maté's connections – between the intensely personal and the global, the spiritual and the medical, the psychological and the political – are bold, wise and deeply moral.”

Rob Reiner, Filmmaker, Actor, Producer

“I think a big part of gaining insight into substance abuse is an examination of its underlying psychological and emotional components. This is at the core of Dr. Mat’és approach.”

Program Schedule

23 - 28 May 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

28 - 32 May 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

1 - 5 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

5 - 6 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

6 - 7 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

7 - 11 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

14 - 18 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

18 June 2023,
1 Day

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Thursday June 1

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

15:0017:00

Arrivals

18:00

Welcome circle & light practice

19:30

Dinner and enjoying the sunset

8.30

Night Kirtan with Krishna Das & Team

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Monday June 5

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

7:30-8:00

Optional Meditation or Walk in Nature

8:00

Morning Ayurvedic Tea or Greek Herbal Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit

8.30-9:45

Abhaya Yoga: “Breathe with the Heart, move with the Body”

10.00

Delicious Vegetarian Brunch

11.00-13:00

KD on Spirituality-Activism-Sustainability:  Talk and Q&A

13.00

Departures

8:00

Morning Herbal Tea, Filter Coffee, Light Fruit

8.30-9:45

Morning Yoga Options: Dynamic Practice or Restorative/Meditative Practice

10.00

Delicious Vegetarian Brunch

11.00-13.00

KD on Spirituality-Activism-Sustainability: Talk and Q&A

13.00

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a massage session

18.00-19.30

Restorative Yoga and/or Sitting or Walking Meditation

19.30-20.30

Dinner & enjoying the sunset

20.30-22.00

Night Kirtan with Krishna Das & Team

All retreat participants welcome.

No prior experience necessary.

Suggested Reading List:

Love Everyone, by Parvati MarkusWhispers in the Heart, by Parvati Markus
Program Schedule

23 - 28 May 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

28 - 32 May 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

1 - 5 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

5 - 6 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

6 - 7 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

7 - 11 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

14 - 18 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

18 June 2023,
1 Day

23 - 28 May, 2023
5 night, 6 days

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Thursday June 1

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

15:00 - 17:00

Arrivals

18:00

Welcome circle & light practice

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Monday June 5

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

Departures: Sunday May 28

7:15

Guided Sitting Meditations & Reading

8:00

Morning Tea

8:3-10:00

Yoga Practice

10:15

Delicious Fresh Brunch Buffet

11:00

Final gathering, talk, kirtan, sharing

12:30

Departures

7:15

Guided Sitting Meditations & Reading

8.00

Morning Tea

8.30-10:00

Yoga Practice

10.15

Delicious Fresh Brunch Buffet

11.00

Kirtan, Mantra, bridges to connecting with the Heavenly Spheres

12.30

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a massage

17.00-19.00

Restorative Yoga & Discussion/Drills to awaken the Activist in us

19.30

Dinner & enjoying the sunset

20.30

Meditation on Sacred Sound & Music

All retreat participants welcome.

No prior experience necessary.

Program Schedule

23 - 28 May 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

28 - 32 May 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

1 - 5 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

5 - 6 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

6 - 7 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

7 - 11 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

14 - 18 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

18 June 2023,
1 Day

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Thursday June 1

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

15:00 - 17:00

Arrivals

17:30

Welcome Circle & Yoga Practice

19:00

Dinner

20:30

Dr. Gabor Maté Introduction

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Monday June 5

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

Saturday Night Fiesta

21:30

Traditional Greek Music & Dance

Departures: Sunday June 18

7:30

Embodied Yoga Practice

9:00

Delicious Fresh Brunch Buffet

10:30 - 12:30

Morning Session with Dr. Gabor Mate

12:30

Closing Circle

13:00

Checkout & Departures

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Thursday June 1

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

3-5pm

(not before 3pm please)

6 or 6.30pm

.

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Monday June 5

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

7:30-8:00

Optional Meditation or Walk in Nature

8.00

Morning Ayurvedic Tea or Greek Herbal Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit

8.30-9:45

Abhaya Yoga: “Breathe with the Heart, move with the Body”

10.00

Delicious Vegetarian Brunch

11.00-13.00

.

13.00

Departures

7:30

Mindfulness Meditation

8.00

Morning Tea

8.30-9:45

Embodied Yoga Practice with Vivi

10.00

Delicious Fresh Vegan-Vegetarian Brunch Buffet

11.00 - 13:00

Morning Session with Dr. Gabor Maté

13.00

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a massage

17:00 - 17:45

Restorative & Therapeutic Yoga with Zen Rocks Teachers

18.00

Delicious Vegan-Vegetarian Dinner

19.30

Evening Session with Dr. Gabor Mate

21.30

End of program

23.00

Noble silence - Lights Out!

Program Schedule

23 - 28 May 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

28 - 32 May 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

May 30 - June 4, 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

5 - 6 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

6 - 7 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

7 - 11 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

14 - 18 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

18 June 2023,
1 Day

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Tuesday May 30

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

15:00-17:00

Arrivals

17:30

Welcome to Zen Rocks — Restorative Yoga Practice

19:00

Dinner and enjoying the sunset

20.00

Opening Gathering Circle

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Sunday June 4

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

7.15

Mindfulness Meditation

8:00

Morning Tea or Walking Meditation

8.30-9:45

Embodied Yoga Practice

10.00

Delicious Fresh Brunch Buffet

10.30-13:00

World Environment Day Gathering

13.00

Farewell Earth- Loving Lunch

7:15

Mindfulness Meditation

8.00

Morning Tea or Walking Meditation

8:30-9.45

Embodied Yoga Practice

10.00

Fresh Vegan-Vegetarian Brunch Buffet

10.30-13.00

Morning Gathering Circle with Inspirational Activists

13.00

Light Lunch, soup & salad

13.30

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a massage

18.00-19.15

Restorative & Therapeutic Yoga

19.30

Sunset Vegan-Vegetarian Dinner

21.00

Evening Gathering: Inspirations, Music, Closing Meditation

All retreat participants welcome.

No prior experience necessary.

Suggested Reading List:

“Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet” by Thich Nhat Hanh and Sister True Dedication
Program Schedule

23 - 28 May 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

28 - 32 May 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

30 - 4 June 2023,
5 Nights, 7 Days

5 - 6 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

6 - 7 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

7 - 11 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

14 - 18 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

18 June 2023,
1 Day

11 - 14 June 2023,
3 Nights, 3 Days

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Tuesday May 30

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

Arrivals: Sunday June 11

15:00-17:00

Arrivals

18:00

Embodied practice to shake it all off & welcome ourselves

20:00

Dinner and enjoying the sunset

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Sunday June 4

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

Departures: Wednesday June 14

7:30-8:00

Morning Meditation with Zen Rocks teacher

8:15

Morning Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit

9:00

Early Departures

7:30-8:00

Optional Meditation or Walk in Nature

8.15

Morning Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit & granola

9:00-12:00

Embodied NVC and Movement, connecting with our body’s wisdom

12:00

Delicious Vegetarian Lunch

13:00-18:00

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a massage session

18:00-19:30

Polyvagal theory & practices for metabolizing stress, pain, and trauma

20:00

Dinner & enjoying the sunset

22:00

Rest and relaxation, sometimes preceded by music, dance, meditation

No prerequisites, just join us with the curiosity of a “Beginner’s Mind.”

No prior experience necessary.

Suggested Reading List:

When The Body Says No, by Dr. Gabor MatéNonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, by Marshall B. Rosenberg

These are Cat’s Certifications:

In Anusara Yoga and Kripalu Yoga; NYCNVC Facilitator;
Compassionate Inquiry Therapy Mentorship and Internship,
Yoga Alliance 500 E-RYT, YACEP, RYS; CEUs available upon request.

Yoga Alliance, NYSY Studios, and Anusara School of Hatha Yoga Credit:
12 hours Credit.

Program Schedule

23 - 28 May 2023,
5 Nights, 6 Days

28 - 32 May 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

30 - 4 June 2023,
5 Nights, 7 Days

5 - 6 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

6 - 7 June 2023,
1 Nights, 2 Days

7 - 11 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

14 - 18 June 2023,
4 Nights, 5 Days

18 June 2023,
1 Day

11 - 14 June 2023,
3 Nights, 4 Days

4 - 6 June 2023,
2 Nights, 3 Days

Arrivals: Tuesday May 23

Arrivals: Sunday May 28

Arrivals: Tuesday May 30

Arrivals: Monday June 5

Arrivals: Tuesday June 6

Arrivals: Wednesday June 7

Arrivals: Wednesday June 14

Arrivals: Sunday June 11

Arrivals: Sunday June 4

15:00-17:00

Arrivals

18:00

Welcome,  introductions, forming a sacred circle

20:00

Dinner and enjoying the sunset

Departures: Sunday May 28

Departures: Wednesday May 31

Departures: Sunday June 4

Departures: Tuesday June 6

Departures: Wednesday June 7

Departures: Sunday June 11

Departures: Sunday June 18

Departures: Wednesday June 14

Departures: Tuesday June 6

7:30-8:00

Morning Meditation with Zen Rocks teacher

8:15

Morning Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit

9:00

Early Departures

Monday June 5

7:30-8:00

Morning Meditation with Zen Rocks teacher

8.15

Morning Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit & granola

9:00-12:00

Class with  Brooke:
- Great Mother meditation
- White Buffalo Woman teaching
- Preparation for Earth Ceremony

12:00

Delicious Vegetarian Lunch

13:00-18:00

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a walk in nature or a massage session

18:00-20:00

Earth Ceremony

20:00

Dinner & enjoying the sunset

21:00

Drumming and Song Circle
Blessing of drums and sacred objects

Optional: Extra Stay and Retreat Program on June 6th

Tuesday June 6

7:30-8:00

Morning Meditation with Zen Rocks teacher

8.15

Morning Tea, or Coffee, Light fruit & granola

9:00-12:00

Class with  Brooke:
- Power and Beauty contracts
- Process work to move forward

12:00

Delicious Vegetarian Lunch

13:00-18:00

Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a walk in nature or a massage session

18:00-20:00

Sharing Circle
Drumming and Songs
Completion with sacred pipe ceremony

20:00

Dinner & enjoying the sunset

No prerequisites, just join us with the curiosity of the “Beginner’s Mind.”

No prior experience necessary.

Costs

Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program & Meals) - The prices are per person.

Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared rooms below, according to the registration type.

in a Double

1980€

in a Triple

1570€

in a Quadruple

1490€

in a Glamping Tent

1290€

Plus Available upon request, Limited Availability

Single

2,800 – 3,800€ (subject to availability)

Payment Options & FEES*

  • Bank Transfer to Zen Rocks account, or PayPal net in Euro: No FEES.

  • Credit Card payments by Stripe:   5% transaction fee will be added to the quoted prices.

* All payment amounts are due NET to Zen Rocks.

What does the Retreat Fee Pay for:

  • Costs for running Zen Rocks

  • THRIVE Event Expenses and payment for the Team

  • Donation of 10% of the net profits to the 2 nonprofits THRIVE supports

Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program & Meals) - The prices are per person.

Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared rooms below, according to the registration type.

in a Double

1980€

in a Triple

1570€

in a Quadruple

1490€

in a Glamping Tent

1290€


Plus Available upon request, Limited Availability‍

Single

2,800 – 3,800€ (subject to availability)


Payment Options & FEES*

  • Bank Transfer to Zen Rocks account, or PayPal net in Euro: No FEES.

  • Credit Card payments by Stripe:   5% transaction fee will be added to the quoted prices.

* All payment amounts are due NET to Zen Rocks.


What does the Retreat Fee Pay for:

  • Costs for running Zen Rocks

  • THRIVE Event Expenses and payment for the Team

  • Donation of 10% of the net profits to the 2 nonprofits THRIVE supports


Partial Scholarships available for Young Visionaries and Activist Workers.

Please write us about you, your work, and the kind of help you need for attending this retreat.

Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program & Meals) - The prices are per person.

Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared rooms below, according to the registration type.

in a Double

1980€

in a Triple

1570€

in a Quadruple

1490€

in a Glamping Tent

1290€

Plus Available upon request, Limited Availability

Single

2,800 – 3,800€ (subject to availability)

Payment Options & FEES*

  • Bank Transfer to Zen Rocks account, or PayPal net in Euro: No FEES.

  • Credit Card payments by Stripe:   5% transaction fee will be added to the quoted prices.

* All payment amounts are due NET to Zen Rocks.

What does the Retreat Fee Pay for:

  • Costs for running Zen Rocks

  • THRIVE Event Expenses and payment for the Team

  • Donation of 10% of the net profits to the 2 nonprofits THRIVE supports

Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program & Meals) - The prices are per person.

Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared rooms below, according to the registration type.

in a Double

1980€

in a Triple

1570€

in a Quadruple

1490€

in a Glamping Tent

1290€

Plus Available upon request, Limited Availability

Single

2,800 – 3,800€ (subject to availability)

Payment Options & FEES*

  • Bank Transfer to Zen Rocks account, or PayPal net in Euro: No FEES.

  • Credit Card payments by Stripe:   5% transaction fee will be added to the quoted prices.

* All payment amounts are due NET to Zen Rocks.

What does the Retreat Fee Pay for:

  • Costs for running Zen Rocks

  • THRIVE Event Expenses and payment for the Team

  • Donation of 10% of the net profits to the 2 nonprofits THRIVE supports

Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program & Meals) - The prices are per person.

Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared rooms below, according to the registration type.

in a Double

790€

in a Triple

630€

in a Quadruple

590€

in a Glamping Tent

390€

Plus Available upon request, Limited Availability

Single

1,090 – 1,390€ (subject to availability)

Payment Options & FEES*

  • Bank Transfer to Zen Rocks account, or PayPal net in Euro: No FEES.

  • Credit Card payments by Stripe:   5% transaction fee will be added to the quoted prices.

* All payment amounts are due NET to Zen Rocks.

What does the Retreat Fee Pay for:

  • Costs for running Zen Rocks

  • THRIVE Event Expenses and payment for the Team

  • Donation of 10% of the net profits to the 2 nonprofits THRIVE supports

Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program & Meals) - The prices are per person.

Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared rooms below, according to the registration type.

in a Double

525€

in a Triple

450€

in a Quadruple

400€

in a Glamping Tent

260€

Plus Available upon request, Limited Availability

Single

790 – 1,090€ (subject to availability)

Payment Options & FEES*

  • Bank Transfer to Zen Rocks account, or PayPal net in Euro: No FEES.

  • Credit Card payments by Stripe:   5% transaction fee will be added to the quoted prices.

* All payment amounts are due NET to Zen Rocks.

What does the Retreat Fee Pay for:

  • Costs for running Zen Rocks

  • THRIVE Event Expenses and payment for the Team

  • Donation of 10% of the net profits to the 2 nonprofits THRIVE supports

  • Accommodations

  • All Lectures and Practice Sessions

  • Τwo delicious vegetarian meals a day (brunch and dinner).
    *Extra drinks, meals, snacks available at extra cost.

  • Limited yoga equipment and accessories (you may want to bring your yoga mat)

  • Transfer to and from Zen Rocks Mani

  • Transfers around Zen Rocks and the area

  • Additional therapeutic treatments or private yoga sessions where applicable.

Help us raise funds in order to give the opportunity to young people to join us in the Live or Online THRIVE Festival at Zen Rocks—Greece: May 19-June 18, 2023.

During this festival we want to explore together what it means for us to THRIVE as individuals, communities, and as a planet during these critical times. We shall support ACTIVISM for : Equality, sustainability, regenerative living, sustainability, personal & global transformation. Inspirational teachers & musicians will lead us through a journey of personal empowerment, connection with the divine and our community of interbeing.

Zen Rocks is a small independent retreat center with limited funding sources and real running costs (the major work is done by paid workers, not volunteers so far). We are not a non-profit organization receiving funding from sources, nor are we a large scale hotel with investment capital behind us. A small team of visionaries, we are here to provide a safe haven for people through creating opportunities for: healing, restoration, sincere meditation practice, and positive action for humanity, animals, our planet.

The Buddha taught the way of “seeking alms” is a practice of giving and receiving. We encourage individuals and foundations to fund the participation of young individuals at this THRIVE@Zen Rocks Caretaking Event for Activists, as a way of supporting your activist work and contribution to important world issues.

Concert Night

You can also attend only the kirtan concert night by getting a ticket here:

Presenters

Krishna Das
& Team

DATES

June 10, 2023
9:00 PM

CATEGORY

Thrive Music

PRICE

Pre Registration Online 35€
On Zen Rocks  45€

Short Biography of the Teachers

Dr. Gabor Maté

Gabor Maté is a retired physician who, after 20 years of family practice and palliative care experience, worked for over a decade in Vancouver’s Downtown East Side with patients challenged by drug addiction and mental illness. The bestselling author of five books published in thirty languages, Gabor is an internationally renowned speaker highly sought after for his expertise on addiction, trauma, childhood development, and the relationship of stress and illness. His book on addiction received the Hubert Evans Prize for literary non-fiction. For his ground- breaking medical work and writing he has been awarded the Order of Canada, his country’s highest civilian distinction, and the Civic Merit Award from his hometown, Vancouver.

His books include In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters With Addiction; When the Body Says No; Exploring the Stress-Disease Connection; Scattered: How ADD Originates and What You Can Do About It; and (with Gordon Neufeld) Hold on to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers; and the international bestseller, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture. To learn more, join his e-news here: www.drgabormate.com.

Vivi Letsou, Zen Rocks Director

Creator of Abhaya Yoga NYSY Academy Director, Co-founder Zen Rocks & Avocado Café Bachelor’s of Science–Aeronautics Master of Arts–Theater Arts & Film Yoga Alliance 500 hours, BASIPilates™ Vivi is a strong and charismatic Yoga teacher and educator.  In Greece she is known as “the teacher of teachers” as her joy has been to share the path of yoga with hundreds of enthusiastic yoga teachers. Having taught in the traditions of Ashtanga, Anusara, and Vinyasa Yoga, Vivi finally created Abhaya Yoga—a style that combines dynamic asana with strong alignment, flow, and an empowering transformational philosophy rooted in Tantra and Buddhism.

It is her greatest joy to share this path with others, acting as a mirror for people to discover and embody their power, beauty, and hidden talents.  Through Yoga and the intimate environment of a training, Vivi loves to witness this catalytic prosses at work, where the individual and the team are mutually uplifted.  Vivi with her husband Eraj have created NYSY Academy for Yoga and Pilates and Avocado Vegetarian Café in Athens, and, in Mani, Zen Rocks their dream space for healing, and transformation through meditation practice.

Esther Chang, B.S., M.A., Advanced Certified Jivamukti

Esther's yoga exploration began in the heart of NYC at the former Jivamukti Yoga School auspiciously landing her in the jewel of the Middle East at her teacher's home city of Beirut. What was to be a 3-month teaching residency in 2019 continues to be a journey in growth of the yoga community in Lebanon and of herself. After a deadly blast in 2020 that nearly destroyed the studio and much of the nation's capital, and amidst the height of COVID, Esther remained steadily in place raising funds and helping rebuild the shala and the students they serve.

The ground on which she stands is where Esther meets all practitioners on their own trek through life's peaks and valleys. Her personal practice of meditation, asana, and karma yoga inform her yoga classes and retreats, offering students a rooted and uplifting quality for personal and collective transformation. She has taught internationally in Paris, Lisbon, NYC, Los Angeles, and Lebanon. Along with an Advanced Certification in Jivamukti Yoga, Esther is certified in Trauma Informed Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Sivananda Yoga, and Yoga + Mindfulness for youth.


Being cut off from our own natural self-compassion is one of the greatest impairments we can suffer. Along with our ability to feel our own pain go our best hopes for healing, dignity, and love.

Being cut off from our own natural self-compassion is one of the greatest impairments we can suffer. Along with our ability to feel our own pain go our best hopes for healing, dignity, and love.

Being cut off from our own natural self-compassion is one of the greatest impairments we can suffer. Along with our ability to feel our own pain go our best hopes for healing, dignity, and love.

Being cut off from our own natural self-compassion is one of the greatest impairments we can suffer. Along with our ability to feel our own pain go our best hopes for healing, dignity, and love.

Have a question?

How do I choose the Retreat for me?

All our retreats aim to create a nurturing and welcoming environment for all levels of practice and all student needs. All programs offer the opportunity for a dose of daily good exercise through yoga or pilates, walks in nature and/or swimming in the sea, and both restorative and meditation practice. A weekly program offers a complete experience of well-being. Our teachers are highly experienced and skilled. If a program seems enticing to you, it is probably the one you need. Make a bold step and trust it: Go for it!

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Our friendly staff and group of guests/friends will make you feel right at home. Surrounded by good company, with space to be on your own, according to your needs and wishes.

Can I bring my partner who is not a practitioner?

Yes. As long as one understands and respects the philosophy of Zen Rocks, your partner can join in the daily activities, or feel free to relax and follow their own schedule. Your friend or partner will feel warmly welcome at Zen Rocks.

When should I book?

Book early, as soon as you know the retreat you are interested in, and your schedule. Click here to send us your questions or to register. Link: REGISTER

Where do I fly to –How do I arrange my Transfer?

We would be happy to help arrange your transfer from Athens or Kalamata to Zen Rocks.The retreat is located about 30 minutes south of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst sea and blue skies. The closest village to us is Kalianeika, about one kilometer from us. There is airport access both from Athens Airport (3 hours from ZR) and from Kalamata Airport (30-40min from ZR).

-Flights to Athens International Airport (ATH) and transportation to Zen Rocks
All major airlines fly to Athens international airport, called Eleftherios Venizelos. Zen Rocks is about a 2.5-3 hours’ drive from Athens. We can arrange a private transport for you and/ or your group or you can rent a car to drive yourself to Zen Rocks. The ride is beautiful, and you can enjoy a direct ride along the new Athens-Kalamata highway, or you can make stops in places like the sites of Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Nemea, the city of Nafplion, and the town of Kalamata.

-Flights to/from Kalamata (KLX)
More and more there are direct and/or charter flights to the small airport of Kalamata from different European cities. Also, new 30 minutes flights have just started from Athens to Kalamata regional airport are very reasonably priced if booked well in advance.
Alternatively, you can fly to Kalamata from the northern Greek town of Thessaloniki.

-Transportation options while in Greece
The way to reach Zen Rocks is either with our luxurious Mini Van for 8 people or by renting a car from Athens or Kalamata and drive around on your own. Our office can assist you with your car rental reservation. Or you can make your booking directly. During your stay at Zen Rocks our minivan is available for hire along with an experienced driver. The rates for transfers with our minivan are in the attached document titled: ZenRocksRates.
Allow us to book your transfer from Athens or Kalamata. Simply email us at: info@zenrocksmani.com

Driving Directions to Zen Rocks

The retreat is located about 30 minutes South of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst the sea and blue skies. The closest village to us is Kallianeika.

1. Drive on the new freeway from Athens to Kalamata, and be prepared to stop frequently for tolls. Expect to pay around 15€ each way. It may take you 2-2.5 hours to reach Kalamata.

2. Stay on the freeway and exit Kalamata heading towards Areopolis and Kitries. After the freeway ends, you will pass Lidl, and a café called Cosi on the right, and then the road forks and you see a road sign. At this point you have the option of heading up towards the mountain towards Areopolis and Kardamyli, or taking a right towards the sea and Kitries. You can reach us either way. We are giving you directions through the coastal road here, as it may be easier to find our location this way.

3. Take a right towards Kitries and drive down the coast for about 10-15 minutes. Right as you approach Kitries, the road goes uphill. There is a big retaining wall right in front of you, causing you to almost stop. You see a road sign for Doloi.

4. Make a sharp left up the mountain towards Doloi.

5. Drive for 5 minutes until you reach the village of Kalianeika.

6. When you reach Kalianeika, stop in front of the church and set your odometer to 0.

7. Drive for one kilometer, and you will come to switch back turn where you will see a fence with big cacti and a huge rock. You are getting close.

8. Immediately afterwards, you see a second switch back turn and a couple small signs for Zen Rocks. At this point leave the asphalt road and enter a smaller cement farm road. Drive 200 meters on cement, and then another 400 meters of dirt road. At this point you will see the electrical posts and a cement road up on your left. This is our private drive way to Zen Rocks.

(Attention: our drive way is the SECOND paved road you see on your left. Do not take the first one, right where the cement ends… wait till you drive the extra 400 meters of dirt and pebble road and you come across the electrical wires and big posts… at this point you will also notice that the farm road you are on is covered with the cement of our paved drive way.)
9. Go left on our cement road. It is a sharp incline. Come up on first gear and full throttle. Small cars will do fine if you know how to drive fearlessly.

10. Welcome to Zen Rocks.
As Zen master Thich Nhat Hahn says: YOU HAVE ARRIVED!

Οδηγίες για το Zen Rocks Mani

Το Zen Rocks Mani βρίσκεται σε απόσταση περίπου 30 λεπτών Νότια από τη πόλη της Καλαμάτας, ανάμεσα σε ήσυχους ελαιώνες, τον ουρανό και τη θάλασσα! Το κοντινότερο χωριό είναι τα Καλλιανέικα.
1. Πάρτε τη νέα εθνική οδό απο την Αθήνα προς τη Καλαμάτα οπου θα χρειαστεί να σταματήσετε συχνά σε σταθμούς διοδίων. Υπολογείστε οτι το συνολικό κόστος των διοδίων θα ειναι 15€ η διαδρομή. Η απόσταση ειναι περιπου 2-2.5 ώρες απο την Αθήνα μέχρι να φτάσετε στη Καλαμάτα.
2. Μείνετε στην εθνική οδό και βγείτε στην έξοδο της Καλαμάτας με κατεύθυνσή προς Αρεόπολη και Κιτριές. Όταν τελειώσει η εθνική οδός, θα συναντήσετε ένα σούπερ μάρκετ Lidl και μια καφετέρια στα δεξιά σας που ονομάζεται Cosi. Σε εκείνο το σημείο ο δρόμος χωρίζεται και θα δείτε μια πινακίδα. Σε αυτό ακριβώς το σημείο, έχετε την επιλογή είτε να συνεχίσετε προς το βουνό με κατεύθυνση προς Αρεόπολη και Καρδαμύλη είτε να πάρετε το δρόμοι που είναι στα δεξιά σας που πάει μέσω του παραλιακού δρόμου στις Κιτριές. Όποιο δρόμο και να πάρετε μπορείτε να έρθετε στο Zen Rocks Mani. Εμείς παρακάτω σας δίνουμε οδηγίες από το παραλιακό δρόμο μιας και θεωρούμε ότι είναι ο πιο εύκολος δρόμος για να έρθετε.
3. Κάνετε δεξιά προς Κιτριές και οδηγείτε στο παραλιακό δρόμο για περίπου 10-15 λεπτά. Στο σημείο που έχετε φτάσει σχεδό στις Κιτριές, ο δρόμος έχει μια ανηφόρα. Στο σημείο αυτό υπάρχει ένας μεγάλος τοίχος μπροστά σας που σας αναγκάζει σχεδόν να σταματήσετε. Εκεί βλέπετε μια πινακίδα προς Δολούς.
4. Εκεί αριστερά προς το βουνό με κατεύθυνση προς Δολούς.
5. Οδηγείστε προς τα επάνω αυτόν τον δρόμο με τις στροφές, για 5 λεπτά μέχρι να βρείτε το χωριό Καλιανέϊκα.
6. Όταν φτάσετε στα Καλιανέϊκα, σταματήστε μπροστά από την εκκλησία και ρυθμίστε το μετρητή χιλιομέτρων σας στο 0.
7. Οδηγείστε για 1 χιλιόμετρο και θα δείτε μια στροφή φουρκέτα, η οποία σας φέρνει προς τα δεξια. Εκεί θα δείτε ένα φράχτη με μεγάλους κάκτους και ένα τεράστιο βράχο. Πλησιάζετε!
8. Αμέσως μετά βλέπετε μια ακόμα στροφή φουρκέτα που στρίβει τον δρόμο προς τα αριστερά. Θα δείτε δύο μικρές πινακίδες για το Zen Rocks. Σε αυτό το σημείο αφήνετε το ασφαλτοστρωμένο δρόμο και μπαίνετε προς τα δεξιά σε έναν μικρό αγροτικό δρόμο από τσιμέντο.Οδηγείστε για 200 μέτρα στο τσιμεντένιο επαρχιακό δρόμο και άλλα 400 μέτρα σε χωματόδρομο. Ακολουθήστε τις πινακίδες για να μην μπείτε στον ελαιώνα που είναι πριν από εμάς. Περιμένετε να δείτε το σημείο με την πινακίδα του Zen Rocks να δείχνει τον ανηφορικό ιδιωτικό τσιμεντένιο δρόμο στα αριστερά σας. Είναι που θα σας φέρει στο κατάλυμα.
Σε αυτό το σημείο και μόνο θα δείτε και τους στύλους της ΔΕΗ να ανεβαίνουν προς τα πάνω.
9. Κάντε αριστερά σε αυτόν τον τσιμεντένιο δρόμο. Έχει έντονη ανηφορική κλίση, οπότε βάλτε πρώτη ταχύτητα για να ανεβείτε. Ακόμα και μικρά αυτοκίνητα ανεβαίνουν άνετα. Είναι λίγο σα να ανεβαίνετε ίσια πάνω στον ουρανό, στα σύννεφα… Απογειώνεστε λοιπόν.
10. 5 Δευτερόπτα μετά: Καλώς ορίσατε στο Zen Rocks Mani. Χαλαρώστε και απολαύστε τη διαμονή σας!

Όπως λέει και ο δάσκαλος του Ζεν Thich Nhat Hahn: You have arrived! Pause. Enjoy!

Booking a Massage or other Therapy

Let us know about your needs and preferences and we can pre-arrange the perfect nurturing massage or related therapy session for you.

Accommodations

Seaview Studio

Elegant room with private entrance from main Villa foyer/kitchen, and nicely furnished balcony with open garden & sea views. Hand crafted elegant wooden furniture, Cocomat mattresses, organic cotton sheets & pillows, special lighting. Organic kourasanit floors (made of river sand) and bathroom walls.180 degree Panoramic Seaview.

Room Size :
25 sqm
Capasity :
up to 2
Beds:
1 Queen Double Bed (or Twin Beds)

Seaview Master Suite

Comfortable spacious suite with private entrance from main Villa foyer/kitchen,and nicely furnished balcony with open garden & sea views.
Hand crafted elegant wooden furniture, Cocomat mattresses, organic cottonsheets & pillows, special lighting.
Organic kourasanit floors (made of river sand) and bathroom walls.
180 degree Panoramic Seaview.

Room Size :
35 sqm
Capasity :
up to 3
Beds:
1 Queen Double Bed (or Twin Beds) & 1 Single Sofa

Seascape Loft

A sea of tranquility, this double or twin room rests on the upper floor of each Villa, with its own external stone staircase. The room opens to a private small balcony with expansive sea and sky views. Thisupstairs oasis also features a large private terrace, your own 40 square-meterprivate sun deck, and star gazing arena.

Room Size :
25 sqm
Capasity :
up to 2
Beds:
1 Queen Double Bed (or Twin Beds)
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