June 11-14, 2015
The Art of Pilgrimage: Walking the Wild Path
The Ojai Foundation: Registration Open
Steven Harper and Adam Rumack
In this retreat we will explore the art of making the ancient act of walking and being in nature a contemporary pilgrimage. Most of the world’s wisdom traditions have some active form of pilgrimage as part of spiritual practice. Contemporary western culture has few sacred forms of pilgrimage as part of contemplative life. This retreat is a dynamic inquiry into inner and outer nature while celebrating the sacred aspect of the journey itself, where meaning lies in each new moment of simply walking, and simply being.
Our time at the Ojai Foundation will begin with an overview of the cross-cultural elements of pilgrimage from around the globe. An introduction to the basic principles of contemplative practices borrowed from many of the world’s wisdom traditions will include various forms of meditation, walking and movement awareness. As we journey forth on mindful day hikes, we will use these ancient practices to explore the beauty of Ojai’s ancient oak, pine and chaparral forests, riparian woodlands, valley grasslands, rivers and swimming holes, expansive views, and the wild nature of the internal landscape. Part of each day will be spent out on the trails and paths around Ojai moving between silence, instruction, and informal discussions. There will be space and time each day to take advantage of all that Ojai offers.
This is a contemplative journey where each step is the goal and an exploration of what inner “gems” we bring back from pilgrimage as gift to our greater community. Be prepared for invigorating embodied activity and the opportunity to simply sit still in quiet reflection.
On the second and third days of the program, we will journey offsite of The Ojai Foundation to explore local wilderness areas. Hikes will very from 5-8 miles in length, and will be moderately strenuous. We will enjoy delicious vegetarian and mostly organic food in the mornings and evenings, and will pack our lunches on the hiking days. Workshop cost includes all meals, from dinner on our first night, through lunch on our final day. Accommodations are semi-rustic, in yurts and domes with shared full-service bathrooms and showers, and with stunning views of the Ojai valley and surrounding mountains.
More information and a waiver will be sent upon registration. For frequently asked questions about Steven's workshops, visit FAQs.
Special Note: This retreat is the beginning of new relationship for me with The Ojai Foundation. I am excited about the possibilities of new programs and look forward to seeing many familiar and new faces here.
To learn more about The Ojai Foundation at their website: The Ojai Foundation
For a visual tour of The Ojai Foundation