Background information

Embodying the Enneagram: Nine Ways to Know the Bliss of Being will blend the spiritual teachings of the Enneagram with New Culture community-building processes.  All are welcome at this retreat – no previous experience with the Enneagram or New Culture is necessary.

For more information on New Culture, click here.

For general information on the nine Enneagram types, click here.

In this retreat, we will embody the essence qualities that connect us to the divine, and see how our egos distort these qualities, which gives rise to our personality patterns. We will contemplate the self-realizations that liberate us from being in the grip of personality patterns, and discover the nondual perceptions that lead to the direct experience of our essential quality.

Our daily teachings and practices include:

 We will combine lecture, discussion, guided practices, movement, group explorations, and solo contemplation.

Program Descriptions:

* indicates that the workshop is highly recommended for all and required for new people.

*Welcome Circle: Orientation & Introduction – Friday 7:30-9:30pm

We’ll meet each other, start building community, and begin exploring the Enneagram.  We’ll also learn essential details about our schedule, spaces, and guidelines.

*Morning Circle – Daily 9:30-10:10am

The camp community comes together for appreciations, announcements, and other sharings.  Please attend if you can – new information and conversations about emerging issues happen here!

Sharing Circle – Daily 10:30am-noon

The community sits in a circle. One person at a time moves to the center of the circle and shares about their processes and inner landscapes. If desired, the person sharing may receive facilitation to explore deeper. Participants in the circle are not required to share. Teachings about the Enneagram will be interwoven with facilitation as appropriate. There is an emergent design aspect to Sharing Circle, and other group processes and designs may be included as the group gains insight into the specific aspects of the Enneagram that are present in the participants.

Teachings and Practices – Audrey – Daily 1:30-4:30pm

Each day Audrey will present a core feature of the Enneagram. Lecture, movement, and discussion will be integrated into these main sessions.

Nature Time – Daily 4:30-5:30pm

Explore the beautiful woods, rocks, and waters of Abrams Creek Campground. Breathing in nature helps integrate the teachings. Enjoy time by yourself, or with community members.

Consent Culture –  Saturday 7:30-8:30pm

How many of us say “yes” to things we don’t actually want out of guilt or a fear of losing connection?  In many ways, “no” is the most daring and intimate response possible – if I can hear your “no”, I can trust your “yes.”  We’ll practice the skills of self-awareness, transparency, and non-attachment, which help us find the space of mutually desired connection that is available with each person. We will learn to check in with all three centers of intelligence – body, heart, and mind.

Conscious Cuddles –  Saturday 9-10pm

Join us for a nurturing, non-sexual cuddle gathering focused on connection and consensual, loving touch.  Everyone is at choice about how to participate.  The facilitators will start us off with some simple cuddle-inspiring activities, and then be available for support as needed.

*Sensual Space Orientation – Sunday 7:30-8:30pm 

The Sensual Space is a warm and inviting space to explore the themes of the day by engaging all of the senses. This Space is a meditative space where solo and partner practices involving sensual and sexual pleasure are welcome. This short session will introduce the space and its etiquette.  

Sensual Space Guided Practices – Sunday & Monday 9-10pm

Sarah and Harold will lead experiential practices based on the intersection of Tantric teachings and the Enneagram teachings.

At the same time, there will be a session on the same themes in the Lodge living room for those who prefer to explore in a nonsexual environment.

Kirtan and Dancing  – Monday 7:30-8:30pm

Live music and singing led by Sarah. Let’s join our voices and move our bodies in ecstatic devotion!

Connection Ceremony and Fun Time – Tuesday 7:30-9:30pm

The final evening together will be an opportunity for connection, cuddles, and having fun.

Closing Circle – Wednesday 12-1pm

Honoring the experience of the past six days, we will connect, reflect, and bid farewell to this incarnation of our community.