January 2022…// Start 2022 off on the right foot by looking after your emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing with five simple tips, as recommended by teachers* from Mandali in Italy.

Just two hours' drive from Milan, Mandali is an eco-retreat centre welcoming guests who are interested in developing a conscious, healthy and sustainable lifestyle, and a deeper connection to themselves. Located high on a hilltop overlooking Lake Orta with spectacular views across to the Swiss Alps, it's an idyllic setting in which to rest, reflect and reset. 

1. Spend time in nature to oxygenate the brain and body

In the world of urban living, we spend a lot of time in our unventilated homes. Commit to going on daily short walks, and to a natural park for longer periods at least once a week. Walking in a heavily forested environment changes our outlook on the day. Since we spend many hours a week wearing a mask, give yourself the gift of clean air. At Mandali, we have the advantage of pristine nature and unpolluted air all around us. 

2. Avoid conversations and people who get into heated, polarised, political, social, or cultural views

Cultivate respect, understanding and empathy for the other view. If you feel yourself getting angry when others have a difference of opinion, remove yourself from the environment, breathe and remember that every view has merit (even if it's only 1% true).  Do not compromise your state of equanimity for anyone or anything. The wise person listens with friendliness and decides whether to engage or disengage without causing harm or hatred.  

3. Honestly review your day

Practice self-inquiry. Ask yourself at the end of each day: Where was I self-aware and kind? What did I do well today? How can I improve tomorrow? By doing this regularly, you will spend more time living the kind of day that brings joy and fulfilment. Remember to forgive yourself daily. Practice self-compassion. Don't just be critical with yourself. Think about what you did well so you can repeat it tomorrow. Be grateful for the good that happened today!   

4. Take multiple, short five-minute mindfulness breaks throughout the day

 This will reset your nervous system. Practice your favourite breathing meditation. Breathe in consciously and imagine that with every exhale, you're removing the mask of tension. By consciously breathing and imagining that we are unmasking ourselves of our struggles and pain, the joy of our original face is revealed.   

5. Move your body vigorously at least once a day

Dance to your favourite song. Moving to music instantly changes your chemistry. Moving your body in creative and emotionally expressive ways reduces stress and depression, increases energy and serotonin, increases mental capacity and creativity, and increases so much joy that we're better equipped to handle the ups and downs of home and work life. 

*Tips recommended by visiting teachers, Evangelos Diavolitsis and Nishta Matarese, the founders of Four Ways to Freedom, a way of teaching that demystifies the journey of spiritual unfoldment and offers a bridge between sacred and ordinary life. It is an innovative voice in mindful embodiment, money, health and the mystery of existence.

For more information about Mandali and to see the full retreat schedule and prices visit www.mandali.org.

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Notes to Editor:

About Mandali 

Since opening in 2017, Mandali has become a spiritual sanctuary designed to help guests disconnect from the pressures of daily life, switch off from technology, and take time to reflect and reset through meditation, yoga and dynamic retreat programmes.

Run by a not-for-profit organisation, Mandali welcomes teachers from all traditions and guests of all abilities. It invites them to bring an open heart and curious mindset to fully benefit from their time at the centre.

Learn to develop a conscious, healthy and sustainable lifestyle, and a deeper connection to yourself on a Mandali Experience Retreat. Simple but profound, this signature retreat is designed for all levels and takes place over three, five or seven days. Activities include meditation, yoga, breathwork and qigong, as well as personal growth workshops, group sessions and periods of silence.

Themed retreats hosted by critically acclaimed teachers from around the world also run throughout the year at Mandali.

About the Founders

Mandali was founded by two entrepreneurial friends, Wouter Tavecchio and Wildrik Timmerman, who had high-flying careers as organisers of international dance festivals. The success of their businesses filled their fast-paced lives with ever-increasing abundance. But with this came the nagging feeling that there was something 'missing'.

After walking the spiritual path, they wanted to build a retreat centre which would help people experience inner peace, wellbeing and transformation in a safe and supportive environment.

After a long search for the right location and the right architect, Mandali finally opened its doors in March 2017. The centre welcomes teachers, groups and students of all traditions and from all over the world – beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

The Centre is created by the Mandali Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation set up by Wouter and Wildrik.

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