A Weekend to Reconnect with Nature and Yourself

Overwhelming technology, social media distractions and urban consumption has taken us to a point of disconnect and anxiety. We often tend to prioritize short-term convenience and satisfaction over long-term health and happiness. It would not be wrong to say that we have messed up our priorities, while messing up the very environment that supports and nurtures our present and our future.

So how can we retrieve our inner Self and find peace amongst the chaos? What are the ecological values that we carry with us along our lives that help guide our decisions and actions? How can we make these values a part of our everyday lives?

Join Green Initiatives for a weekend program inspired by the values of Deep Ecology and the transformative experiences of ‘The Work That Reconnects’ at the charming Camphor Tree Valley boutique hotel, nestled in the remote village of Lijikeng by the Siming Mountains in Zhejiang province.

GOOD FOR EARTH, GOOD FOR US

We are offering a range of activities to develop your Ecological Self because we believe that by experiencing the beauty of nature and feeling its powerful connection we are inspired to take action that are good for earth, and thereby, good for us.
You will re-discover what it means to belong to the land and be in communion with nature.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The focus will be on:

• Reflection on the values of Deep Ecology and the development of ecological wisdom.
• Sharing activities and spaces where one can experience nature connection and a sense of belonging.
• A better understanding of what it means to be indigenous to the Earth

WHO SHOULD JOIN US?

Anyone. Yes. That's it.

Whether you are an expert in an environmental subject or just taking your first steps in the getting to know our Earth better, this course offers something for all. However, the real requirement is good vibes and right purpose. We look at this as something that will shape your life and work in times to come, which in turn will impact those around you. Thus, having the right mindset and doing it for the right reasons is absolutely important for the positive development of all.

WHAT IS ‘DEEP ECOLOGY’ & ‘ECOLOGICAL SELF’

Deep Ecology is an ecological and environmental philosophy promoting interconnection and diversity by endorsing the inherent worth of all beings regardless of their utility to the human community. It involves moving beyond the individualism of modern cultures towards seeing human beings as part of a global ecosystem.

SESSIONS

ll the sessions will be delivered in holistic format in English. Overall group size will not exceed 20 participants.

INTRODUCTORY SESSION*

This introductory session will be organized in Shanghai, several days prior to the weekend activity. While this event will be open to the public, participants in the weekend are required to join one of the introductory sessions (16 or 23 May at 7pm, WeWork, Hunan Road 328) to make the most out of the weekend activity.
The goal of this session will be to introduce the subject of Deep Ecology and prepare the group to our activities during the weekend.

*Note: 

• This individual session costs 250rmb.
• If participants choose to join the weekend program this amount will be deducted from the final price.

WEEKEND SCHEDULE

To review the detailed schedule, please download the pdf file attached here.

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ACCOMMODATION & FOOD

The group will stay in a beautiful and comfortable hotel tucked in the ancient Lijiakeng Village. You can choose to stay in private or shared rooms (2 people per room). During your stay you are welcome to use the hotel pool and explore the charming village it is situated in.
All meals are included from Saturday to Sunday. Indulge in delicious vegetarian Chinese food. Please let us know of your dietary requirements, if any.

FACILITATOR

The program is facilitated by Green Initiatives’ Program Manager and Social Ecologist, Maria Souza. Maria's mission is to engage people with  the natural world and foster a reflection about our presence on Earth. Maria holds a Masters Degree in Ecology and Spirituality from Schumacher College in partnership with Trinity Saint David University in the UK. Previously worked with storytelling and project management in wild areas in Brazil, Botswana, Myanmar and Thailand. Maria will be the facilitator guiding the trip and supporting the learning journey.

Read more about her journey here.

PROGRAM FEES

• On a shared-room basis: 2,940rmb (max. 2 occupants per room)
• For private room: 3,620rmb

Fapiaos may be provided. 6% VAT fees will be applicable in addition to the above.

Fee includes:

• 2-night accommodation
• Transport from Shanghai to Hotel - return
• Meals (2 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner and 4 snacks)
• All activities and facilitation support
• Certificate of participation by Green Initiatives

To register for this session, scan the QR code below or visit this link https://yoopay.cn/event/natureconnectionweekend