Mind, Body & Soul Quests • Unusual Work, Learn & Educational Experiences at Retreat Centers

Mind, Body & Soul Quests
Unique Jobs at Retreat Centers

Kalani Honua Oceanside Retreat Village's volunteer program is an extraordinary way for people from all over the world to experience community life in Hawaii in an affordable way. Throughout the year, 80-100 volunteers support the day-to-day activities and operations of this non-profit, educational agrarian Hawaiian community and provide assistance in either the kitchen, housekeeping, maintenance or agriculture department.
Learn more about one volunteer's exciting work adventure at Kalani »

In the silence of meditation, the soulful songs of Sufi dance, the vitality and healthful benefits of yoga, the study of ancient disciplines of the East, or the healing techniques of Gestalt therapy, holistic retreat centers are providing something that's missing in so many people's lives—food for the soul.

From ecovillages and artist communities to yoga institutes and Zen centers, this channel offers unique opportunities for hard work, personal growth, reflection and rejuvenation, spiritual exploration and community building. The work component at each center is generally basic and rudimentary; however, a collection of stimulating classes and workshops, connecting with inspiring and supportive people and indulging in fresh, organic meals may be the hiatus you need to reawaken your soul.

In the Spotlight

California Quests more

Founded in the early 1960s as an alternative educational/holistic center devoted to the exploration of what Aldous Huxley called the human potential, the Esalen Institute is situated on 27 acres along the spectacular Big Sur coastline of California. Esalen's 28-day residential work-study program offers the essential ingredients for making a directed commitment to self-exploration and growth while contributing your service and working talents to the Esalen community. Participants work 32 hours per week in one of Esalen's departments (usually in the kitchen or housekeeping); during most evenings and one weekend intensive, students are together with assigned leaders in one of two groups exploring different practices and approaches available at the center (such as Gestalt, meditation, creative arts, massage or somatics work). The fee of $1,095 also covers shared housing, healthful food (often with home-grown organic produce), and participation in regularly scheduled movement classes, use of the Art Barn and enjoyment of round-the-clock access to the Esalen baths. Discounts are available for extended work periods. Applications and specific details about each session can be found online or email Esalen for more information.

The baths of Esalen

• The two northernmost tubs at the Esalen baths bring work-study participants closest to the energy of the ocean. From here the sound and sight of waves breaking against the rocks are ever-present. This wide-open outdoor location is a wonderful vantage point from which to take in the coastline, sunsets and the starry night sky.

Work-Study in Buddhist Community
Live, work and grow in a Buddhist community in Northern California dedicated to transmitting and preserving of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition in both Asia and in the West. This residential work-study volunteer program offers accommodations, vegetarian meals, Buddhist classes and opportunities to train in a wide range of practical vocational and business skills. Commitments range from 3 weeks to 6 months or more; commit to a minimum of 3 months and you'll also receive a stipend of $150 per month. Applications are being accepted at both Ratna Ling, a rural retreat center in Sonoma County (100 miles north of San Francisco) and at the Nyingma Institute in Berkeley. The hands-on production of thousands of Tibetan Buddhist sacred texts is the main focus of the work. Positions in cooking, sewing, maintenance, landscaping, IT, fundraising and all aspects of the publishing business are also available. All work-study volunteers are offered free Buddhist classes, including meditation, Tibetan yoga and Buddhist philosophy. Individuals who like to work hard, are willing to view work as a source of learning and who possess a strong commitment to personal growth will thrive in this environment. Call 510.981.1987 or email dharmavols@nyingma.org for more information.

Nyingma Institute - Ratna Ling - Residential Work-Study Volunteer Program
more photos »

• Looking for an opportunity to unite practical accomplishment with spiritual development? Immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist tradition: work-study residents engage in various aspects of Tibetan Buddhist sacred culture through the art, sculpture and other attributes of each center's grounds and buildings, as well as through classes, ceremonies and traditional events observed during the year.

Hawaii Quests more

Surrounded by thermal springs, tidal pools, waterfalls, botanical gardens, historic villages, a black sand beach and spectacular Volcanoes National Park, Kalani treats visitors to Hawaii's aloha spirit, offering abundant culture, agriculture and wellness experiences. Kalani's volunteer program is an extraordinary way for people from all over the world to experience community life in Hawaii in an affordable way. Throughout the year, 80-100 volunteers support the day-to-day activities and operations of this non-profit, educational agrarian Hawaiian community and provide assistance in either the kitchen, housekeeping, maintenance or agriculture department. The initial time commitment is either one, two or three months, with options for extending. Tuition fee includes: a living space (Camping: 1 month—$1,000; 2 months—$1,200; 3 months—$1,500 or Lodging: 2 months—$1,600; 3 months—$1,800), three diverse buffet meals a day ranging from vegetarian to meat options, weekly Ohana (family) night activities, full use of facilities (including a clothing-optional swimming pool, hot tubs, sauna, and workout room), and vacation time (for personal relaxation, exploration or intensive study). Ongoing activities and instruction include volcano and native plant treks, dolphin swims, snorkeling, Lauhala weaving, Hawaiian mythology and language classes, hula, ecstatic dance, and yoga. Also available are reduced rates for adventures, massage (bodywork) and some workshops. If you are ready to be a part of a thriving community based on serving with aloha, mutual respect and open communication, contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more info or go directly to Kalani's application page.

Kalani Oceanside Retreat: Residential Volunteer Team

Upon arrival at the Kalani Honua Oceanside Retreat Village, each volunteer is provided with a journal to capture his or her own growth and lessons learned, through writing and artwork—a necessary tool to prepare for life's next adventure. For many new volunteers, Kalani holds the promise of a new direction, a new adventure, and a new way of life. Learn more about one volunteer's exciting work adventure at Kalani »

New York Quests

A season at the Omega Institute offers a unique opportunity for hard work, personal growth, spiritual exploration, community building and transforming lives. Each year 400 staff members with diverse backgrounds join Omega to work and grow alongside like-minded people. The work itself is basic and rudimentary (from the FoodWorks program to administration, guest services, housekeeping, maintenance and garden staff); however, the real draw is participation in a stimulating collection of classes, gatherings, and special events with topics that include Holistic Studies Programs (bodywork, yoga, tai chi, chakra meditations), Life Skills Workshops (reiki training, astrology, communing with music, zen and creativity) and Strategies in Conscious Living (vision quests, coaching, celtic shamanism, psychic development). Benefits also include a small stipend, housing in the dorms or tents, wholesome meals and access to campus facilities, concerts and dances. Positions are available from April through October for the entire season or for a minimum of seven weeks. If you are creative, enthusiastic, responsible, willing to learn and are seeking ways to make our world more healthy and humane, consider joining the Omega team! www.eomega.org

Omega Institute • Transforming Lives

• Whether you are a student, career-shifter or retiree, seasonal staff members at Omega are encouraged to engage in the inner work of self-examination and personal growth within the context of community living.

Unique Resources

Expand your soul quest and unusual job search by exploring these keywords:

Artists Communities details 97 residencies and retreats in the U.S. with descriptions of facilities, history, stipend and fees, selection process, odds of acceptance, special programs, admission deadlines, and contact information. In addition, contact information for 347 residency programs in the U.S. and abroad is provided. A must for those needing a creativity-stirring change of pace.

• Attend workshops that will open your heart, awaken your spirit and fill your soul with joy—a spectacular and powerful weekend event featuring the country's top authors and speakers. The Fall 2009 Celebrate Your Life conference was just held; dates for the Spring 2010 event will be coming soon.

Are you the type of person who loves variety, new challenges or juggling multiple interests? Perhaps you're dreaming about working on a farm, leading worldwide adventure tours or starting your own business? If you're feeling overwhelmed or scattered by all the passions you enjoy in life, the Renaissance Soul will provide you with down-to-earth insights on focusing your energy in the now while becoming more creative over the course of your life.

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