Annies share

"The time together created such a bond! I can see that the nature of Feminine Power (FP) work (vulnerability, authenticity, honoring shared agreements) leads to deep connection. This was fostered even more by the small group we had, the structure of the day balancing group and personal time, and the beautiful simplicity of Paradiso Integrale. In addition, Adelheid was very skillful at leading in a subtle way, with expert organization, yet participating in all activities as one of the FP sisters.

During the time together, Feminine Power work was our staple daily fare. All of us had issues which were brought to the table and we worked as a group with them within the Feminine Power shared agreements.  I had the good fortune of having two "real time" events which really exploded my own learning. One was around a work situation that was happening back in the States;  I was dealing with it intermittently while at Paradiso Integrale.  I had a strong breakdown around it and my FP sisters helped me recognize what was happening. Through their coaching and holding the space, my false center finally calmed down and my power center surfaced. Another "event" was when one of the sisters in the group voiced a "negative" feeling she had about me. It was wonderful modeling on her part to have the courage to do this. For me, I understood that my communication was not being interpreted as intended. After receiving group comments and personal reflection,  I could see the effect it had on the dynamics of the group and begin to dismantle my pattern . Both of these" live" events gave tremendous impact to my learning. At home I have continued to deepen my understanding and practice in these areas.

The bonus to doing the Feminine Power work at Paradiso Integrale is the days and evenings were punctuated with personal time for exercise, meditation…. with communal meal preparation and side trips to the beach and Italian sites. Interestingly, we were so engaged in our Feminine Power learning, it was woven into all our activities, enriching our time together, creating a gorgeous tapestry of life at Paradiso Integrale. "

the photographs from our Italy retreat are taken by Sam and Nicci

(here they are: left Nicci. middle: Sam, right: Annie)