The spiritual centre of our men's work in the Nelson region, this event has meet twice yearly since the mid 1990’s. Men share food, lodging, connection and deep circle work.
Our Labour Day Weekend Retreat for Men will be held at the Rotoiti Outdoor Education Lodge, our traditional home. We’ll connect over an evening meal on Friday, followed by an introductory circle, sharing our intentions for our time together. Our weekend will evolve from that process, and we’ll finish up around 1 pm on Monday.
This weekend will offer the opportunity to step outside our daily lives. Learning from past experience, we’ll use both sharing circles and open space, plus walks around Lake Rotoiti and up Pinchgut Track, and one on one connections, to build our sense of community with other fine men. Alternatively, you may wish simply to chill by the fire.
Circles
We do have the structure of circles morning and evening, with the afternoon free as open space. The invitation to each man is to ask for what you want. There will be opportunities to offer processes, facilitate a discussion on a topic that is real for you, walk in nature, or simply to take time out. This is not a workshop, but an opportunity to co-facilitate our time together, to use the power of the circle to share of ourselves, and to explore issues close to our hearts.
Other Offerings
Within our circle of late, there have been new men from different groups bringing their experiences to add to the mix. And over the past 3 years there has been a focus in open space to hear from and support Hardy and Victor in their Top of the South Men’s Initiative, seeking to create new men’s circles, and to support the new men in those circles.
Food
In the kitchen preparing food for others is one way of nurturing our community of men, in our circles where we deepen our connection, and in our play where we celebrate as men.Bring your own breakfasts and food to share for combined lunches and dinners, which we will prepare communally.
What to bring
Please bring your guitars, drums and voices, and your sound systems.
Do come prepared to take responsibility for what you need and to participate fully. Be ready to embrace the richness of a shared enlivened experience with open-hearted men.
And if it feels right, please actively spread the word and possibly invite another man or two to come with you.
Cost
Accommodation will be $50/night, less if money is tight. As a group we’ll support your attendance.