Event - Mental Education and Wellbeing
Retreat with Darrell Calkins
St Orens Pouy Petit - From 04/10/2015 to 11/10/2015
Details:
In: St Orens Pouy Petit - France Date: From 04/10/2015 to 11/10/2015
Time: 4 – 11 October 2015Price: Early bird price of 1,600 € instead of 1,750 € through September 5. Prices are all-inclusive.
Where: Château in Gascony, southwestern France, Château in Gascony, southwestern France, St Orens Pouy Petit, 32100 - (FR)
Category: Mental Education and Wellbeing
Description:
CobaltSaffron retreats offer you the opportunity to leave behind the stress and complications of day-to-day life, to discover and rejuvenate mind, body and spirit within an exceptionally inspiring environment.
The retreats cover the deeper aspects and questions of human experience, personally and communally.
Our retreats are designed and conducted by Darrell Calkins, who has led retreats and seminars in Europe and the US for more than 35 years.
The retreats are held at a magnificent 15th century château located in the heart of Gascony, southwestern France. Surrounded by centuries-old trees, armagnac vineyards and rose gardens, the château sits atop a hill looking down on lush, quiet valleys. Facilities include a vast private park, hiking trails, pool, sauna and massage room, and 4,000 square-foot exercise space.
“It is hard to express what really happened. For sure it is overwhelming. As Darrell said during this last retreat, we have been reminded of who we are and what life can be. Oh, man, I didn’t expect it to be so big! The retreat has been truly SPECTACULAR, more than I can say. I saw the other side of the moon: I had the impression to be allowed to watch in detail how you make such an event possible. I think of the beauty and precision of the inside of those Swiss watches. It is so complex yet so precise. I have the impression that my life is just starting, that a whole new world is opening in front of me.”
— Raphaël Radoux-Rogier, Musician-Composer
Darrell Calkins’ seminars and retreats are unique events that assemble talent, vision, knowledge and technique to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Participants are given the opportunity to pull back from and rise above the circumstance of their day–to–day lives, to discover and rejuvenate the core elements of mind, body and spirit. Through group and individual activities, lectures and exercises, the seminars and retreats cover the spectrum of human experience, elucidating the art of being and living:
-Wholeness and well–being
-Fulfilling personal priorities
-Creating rewarding relationships
-Refining communication
-Transforming fear and stress
-Cultivating inspiration, harmony and grace
Participants consistently describe these benefits:
-A clear, inspired mind
-Significant relief from stress and anxiety
-Revitalized energy, enthusiasm and vision
-More effective and creative communication
-Specific tools for maintaining well-being
-Greater ease in exploiting talents
-Superior ability in decision-making
-Renewed confidence and trust
-Deepened personal balance and composure
-A more constant experience of joy, harmony and inspiration
The CobaltSaffron retreat is a week-long event held at the château in Gascony, southwestern France. There is one retreat a year, in autumn, 4 – 11 October 2015.
The Château
The maximum number of participants at each retreat is 24. The château has 12 bedrooms, some single and some double, and a group dormitory. Some participants will be sharing a bedroom with separate single beds with another person. Priority is on a first-come, first-served basis, based on availability. The château has all necessities.
Activities
Each day will include lectures and presentations, physical activities, walks and free time for rest and recreation. Each participant’s needs and capacities will be considered individually. If you have a specific health concern, please let us know in advance of the retreat. Health professionals will be on-site.
Food
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be prepared at the château, using healthy, mainly locally grown food. Beverages and snacks will be available during breaks. Details of any special dietary requirements should be submitted in advance.
What to bring
The weather will probably be warm, but prepare for cool evenings and the possibility of rain. Walking or hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, athletic wear, shorts, swimsuit, and a hat are recommended, as well as a notebook and any other items you may use during your free time. We ask that there be no use of phones during the retreat, please.
Where
Agen is the nearest large city and the pickup point. Bordeaux and Toulouse are the closest airports. The city of Agen is reachable by train from all major European cities.
By train:
Paris – Agen: 4 hours.
Bordeaux or Toulouse – Agen: 1.5 hours.
Reservations for trains should be booked in advance. Please keep in mind that it is not our responsibility to book or organize travel arrangements. Travel advice, if needed, is available through us by email, or contact the SNCF directly in France at www.sncf.com.
Rendezvous
Participants will be welcomed at the Agen train station on Sunday at 2 pm. From there, you’ll be taken directly to the château, where the retreat begins at 3:30 pm. At the end of the retreat, participants will be driven back to the Agen train station, arriving Sunday at 2 pm.
Please, no arrival or departure outside of this timeframe. If you have any difficulty, please contact us in advance. Anyone arriving in the area early will not be able to stay at the château before the beginning of the retreat. The château is a private residence; no visits in advance, please.
Price
Early bird price of 1,600 € instead of 1,750 € through September 5.
Prices are all-inclusive.
Payment and Reservation
To reserve a place at the retreat, you’ll need to email us confirming your participation, including the following information: Your last name, first name, postal address, email address, telephone numbers, age, and method of payment. All reservations are complete upon receipt of the total cost in euros.
FAQ
“What exactly is it that you do in your seminars and retreats?”
Here’s the basic guide followed for every seminar and retreat: Compress key real-life dynamics to accelerate education and knowledge; develop intuition and other personal skills to improve perception and choice capabilities; clean out misperceptions, obstacles and habits that erode inspiration and clarity; study and practice the essential principles for living well; re-ignite qualities, virtues and talents; recall (life’s) context and fun.
“What kinds of specific activities take place?”
The general outline of activities includes prepared and spontaneous lectures, round-table discussions, moderate stretching akin to yoga and martial arts warm-ups, creative interactive movement, meditative breathing exercises, writing sessions, addressing personal questions, and musical interludes.
“How personal are these events? Will I have to reveal personal details about myself?”
Each event begins with specific themes and ideas. As we go, participants guide the general dialogue toward subjects that interest them most. Discussions tend to lean toward practical concerns and application. Some of that is personal rather than theoretical, but each participant chooses how specific that becomes. No one is asked to reveal more than they wish to.
“Is the creative movement like dance therapy?”
No. All the movement in these events is meant to either balance body, mind and emotions, or develop various skills and qualities that are transferable to each participant’s own life outside of the event.
“What if I’m asked to do something I’m not comfortable with?”
All discussions, activities and exercises are proposals. Each person can choose how much he or she participates, if at all.
“How physical are the activities?”
The physical activities are designed to include any level of skill and capacity. All of the movement practiced in these events has been used in seminars for handicapped persons, including those in wheelchairs. Young children also practice them. On the other end of the spectrum, most events include participation of professional performers and athletes.
“Your writings often include spirituality. Are you part of a spiritual organization?”
No. Participants have of a wide range of religious backgrounds – Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Taoism, Sufism, Agnosticism and undefined – and some have no interest in religion. Although we do discuss spiritual ideas and their application, there is no central spiritual concept or organization.
“Are you a spiritual teacher or leader of some kind?”
No, I’m not, and have never considered myself to be or claimed or suggested that I am.
“Is your work a form of therapy?”
Not in the classic, formal sense. There’s no attempt to “fix” psychological problems. But the work is therapeutic in the way that an exceptionally well-lived day is. The goal is that each person leaves the event with greater clarity, inspiration, insight and joy, as well as with specific skills to improve the quality of one’s life.
“What is the difference between the seminars and the retreats?”
The seminars are weekend events expressly designed for anyone and everyone. Because of time limitations, they tend to move faster and cover a less extensive range of topics and activities. The retreats are basically the same in structure, although the circumstance allows for a deeper and more voluptuous engagement. At the base, both the seminars and retreats have the same focus and purpose.
“The prices for these events seem expensive. Are there other options for those of us who can’t afford them?”
Our prices have been the same for the last seven or eight years, and they are comparable to or cheaper than other weekend seminars or weeklong retreats. We do offer discounts for students and those in need of financial assistance, as well as scholarships, work exchange programs and extended payment options.
“Is it best to attend a seminar or retreat alone or with my partner/spouse?”
There are advantages to both options. That’s a personal choice, and what takes place will be pretty much the same in either case.
“Is there something I can do in advance to prepare for an event?”
Both the seminars and retreats are fairly challenging. We advise arriving well rested and unhurried. By nature, these events are probably deeper in subject matter than the average day for most persons. Consequently, it’s probably a good idea to take some time to reflect and gather oneself for the event.
“What should I bring with me?”
For seminars, comfortable, loose clothing (many persons bring a change of clothes for the physical activities); a notebook and pen; a prepared lunch is optional, as there will be restaurants and cafes nearby for the lunch break; perhaps something to drink, although drinks will be available in the room during the various breaks.
For retreats, we have a Retreat Information Details page with recommendations for what to bring with you.
“I’m still not convinced that I’d like to attend. Is there someone I can speak to directly or some way I can get more information?”
There’s lots of information, articles, testimonials and an extended interview on our website. You can also contact us by email with any questions you may have, which would be our pleasure.
The retreats cover the deeper aspects and questions of human experience, personally and communally.
Our retreats are designed and conducted by Darrell Calkins, who has led retreats and seminars in Europe and the US for more than 35 years.
The retreats are held at a magnificent 15th century château located in the heart of Gascony, southwestern France. Surrounded by centuries-old trees, armagnac vineyards and rose gardens, the château sits atop a hill looking down on lush, quiet valleys. Facilities include a vast private park, hiking trails, pool, sauna and massage room, and 4,000 square-foot exercise space.
“It is hard to express what really happened. For sure it is overwhelming. As Darrell said during this last retreat, we have been reminded of who we are and what life can be. Oh, man, I didn’t expect it to be so big! The retreat has been truly SPECTACULAR, more than I can say. I saw the other side of the moon: I had the impression to be allowed to watch in detail how you make such an event possible. I think of the beauty and precision of the inside of those Swiss watches. It is so complex yet so precise. I have the impression that my life is just starting, that a whole new world is opening in front of me.”
— Raphaël Radoux-Rogier, Musician-Composer
Darrell Calkins’ seminars and retreats are unique events that assemble talent, vision, knowledge and technique to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Participants are given the opportunity to pull back from and rise above the circumstance of their day–to–day lives, to discover and rejuvenate the core elements of mind, body and spirit. Through group and individual activities, lectures and exercises, the seminars and retreats cover the spectrum of human experience, elucidating the art of being and living:
-Wholeness and well–being
-Fulfilling personal priorities
-Creating rewarding relationships
-Refining communication
-Transforming fear and stress
-Cultivating inspiration, harmony and grace
Participants consistently describe these benefits:
-A clear, inspired mind
-Significant relief from stress and anxiety
-Revitalized energy, enthusiasm and vision
-More effective and creative communication
-Specific tools for maintaining well-being
-Greater ease in exploiting talents
-Superior ability in decision-making
-Renewed confidence and trust
-Deepened personal balance and composure
-A more constant experience of joy, harmony and inspiration
The CobaltSaffron retreat is a week-long event held at the château in Gascony, southwestern France. There is one retreat a year, in autumn, 4 – 11 October 2015.
The Château
The maximum number of participants at each retreat is 24. The château has 12 bedrooms, some single and some double, and a group dormitory. Some participants will be sharing a bedroom with separate single beds with another person. Priority is on a first-come, first-served basis, based on availability. The château has all necessities.
Activities
Each day will include lectures and presentations, physical activities, walks and free time for rest and recreation. Each participant’s needs and capacities will be considered individually. If you have a specific health concern, please let us know in advance of the retreat. Health professionals will be on-site.
Food
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be prepared at the château, using healthy, mainly locally grown food. Beverages and snacks will be available during breaks. Details of any special dietary requirements should be submitted in advance.
What to bring
The weather will probably be warm, but prepare for cool evenings and the possibility of rain. Walking or hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, athletic wear, shorts, swimsuit, and a hat are recommended, as well as a notebook and any other items you may use during your free time. We ask that there be no use of phones during the retreat, please.
Where
Agen is the nearest large city and the pickup point. Bordeaux and Toulouse are the closest airports. The city of Agen is reachable by train from all major European cities.
By train:
Paris – Agen: 4 hours.
Bordeaux or Toulouse – Agen: 1.5 hours.
Reservations for trains should be booked in advance. Please keep in mind that it is not our responsibility to book or organize travel arrangements. Travel advice, if needed, is available through us by email, or contact the SNCF directly in France at www.sncf.com.
Rendezvous
Participants will be welcomed at the Agen train station on Sunday at 2 pm. From there, you’ll be taken directly to the château, where the retreat begins at 3:30 pm. At the end of the retreat, participants will be driven back to the Agen train station, arriving Sunday at 2 pm.
Please, no arrival or departure outside of this timeframe. If you have any difficulty, please contact us in advance. Anyone arriving in the area early will not be able to stay at the château before the beginning of the retreat. The château is a private residence; no visits in advance, please.
Price
Early bird price of 1,600 € instead of 1,750 € through September 5.
Prices are all-inclusive.
Payment and Reservation
To reserve a place at the retreat, you’ll need to email us confirming your participation, including the following information: Your last name, first name, postal address, email address, telephone numbers, age, and method of payment. All reservations are complete upon receipt of the total cost in euros.
FAQ
“What exactly is it that you do in your seminars and retreats?”
Here’s the basic guide followed for every seminar and retreat: Compress key real-life dynamics to accelerate education and knowledge; develop intuition and other personal skills to improve perception and choice capabilities; clean out misperceptions, obstacles and habits that erode inspiration and clarity; study and practice the essential principles for living well; re-ignite qualities, virtues and talents; recall (life’s) context and fun.
“What kinds of specific activities take place?”
The general outline of activities includes prepared and spontaneous lectures, round-table discussions, moderate stretching akin to yoga and martial arts warm-ups, creative interactive movement, meditative breathing exercises, writing sessions, addressing personal questions, and musical interludes.
“How personal are these events? Will I have to reveal personal details about myself?”
Each event begins with specific themes and ideas. As we go, participants guide the general dialogue toward subjects that interest them most. Discussions tend to lean toward practical concerns and application. Some of that is personal rather than theoretical, but each participant chooses how specific that becomes. No one is asked to reveal more than they wish to.
“Is the creative movement like dance therapy?”
No. All the movement in these events is meant to either balance body, mind and emotions, or develop various skills and qualities that are transferable to each participant’s own life outside of the event.
“What if I’m asked to do something I’m not comfortable with?”
All discussions, activities and exercises are proposals. Each person can choose how much he or she participates, if at all.
“How physical are the activities?”
The physical activities are designed to include any level of skill and capacity. All of the movement practiced in these events has been used in seminars for handicapped persons, including those in wheelchairs. Young children also practice them. On the other end of the spectrum, most events include participation of professional performers and athletes.
“Your writings often include spirituality. Are you part of a spiritual organization?”
No. Participants have of a wide range of religious backgrounds – Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Taoism, Sufism, Agnosticism and undefined – and some have no interest in religion. Although we do discuss spiritual ideas and their application, there is no central spiritual concept or organization.
“Are you a spiritual teacher or leader of some kind?”
No, I’m not, and have never considered myself to be or claimed or suggested that I am.
“Is your work a form of therapy?”
Not in the classic, formal sense. There’s no attempt to “fix” psychological problems. But the work is therapeutic in the way that an exceptionally well-lived day is. The goal is that each person leaves the event with greater clarity, inspiration, insight and joy, as well as with specific skills to improve the quality of one’s life.
“What is the difference between the seminars and the retreats?”
The seminars are weekend events expressly designed for anyone and everyone. Because of time limitations, they tend to move faster and cover a less extensive range of topics and activities. The retreats are basically the same in structure, although the circumstance allows for a deeper and more voluptuous engagement. At the base, both the seminars and retreats have the same focus and purpose.
“The prices for these events seem expensive. Are there other options for those of us who can’t afford them?”
Our prices have been the same for the last seven or eight years, and they are comparable to or cheaper than other weekend seminars or weeklong retreats. We do offer discounts for students and those in need of financial assistance, as well as scholarships, work exchange programs and extended payment options.
“Is it best to attend a seminar or retreat alone or with my partner/spouse?”
There are advantages to both options. That’s a personal choice, and what takes place will be pretty much the same in either case.
“Is there something I can do in advance to prepare for an event?”
Both the seminars and retreats are fairly challenging. We advise arriving well rested and unhurried. By nature, these events are probably deeper in subject matter than the average day for most persons. Consequently, it’s probably a good idea to take some time to reflect and gather oneself for the event.
“What should I bring with me?”
For seminars, comfortable, loose clothing (many persons bring a change of clothes for the physical activities); a notebook and pen; a prepared lunch is optional, as there will be restaurants and cafes nearby for the lunch break; perhaps something to drink, although drinks will be available in the room during the various breaks.
For retreats, we have a Retreat Information Details page with recommendations for what to bring with you.
“I’m still not convinced that I’d like to attend. Is there someone I can speak to directly or some way I can get more information?”
There’s lots of information, articles, testimonials and an extended interview on our website. You can also contact us by email with any questions you may have, which would be our pleasure.
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Darrell Calkins Personal Skills Development
The human soul is complex. So is Nature (or life, if you prefer). Creating a perfect interface between the two results in a balance that one can recognize in an individual as a state of grace. This kind of resulting harmony is just like the dynamic in an exceptional relationship. What we’re talking…