Mind, Body & Soul Quests

Unique Jobs at Retreat Centers

Each year, hundreds of seasonal staff join the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies to be a part of something larger than themselves and to work and grow alongside like-minded people. With positions available from April through October, these unique opportunities for students, career-shifters or retirees offer a season of hard work, personal growth, spiritual exploration and community building.

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.

California Quests more

Work and live in the redwood-studded coastal hills of Sonoma County, California at Ratna Ling, a retreat center for education, healing and spirituality in everyday life. Be in a spiritual community of like-minded people dedicated to service to humanity through a wide variety of projects that are both local and global. The Ratna Ling Work-Study Retreat Program offers accommodations, vegetarian meals, Buddhist classes, a stipend of $150 per month, and opportunities to train in a wide range of practical vocational and business skills. Positions are currently open this fall in the book bindery, kitchen, guest services and maintenance. Free evening classes, including meditation, Tibetan yoga, and Buddhist philosophy give participants in this program a chance to deepen their knowledge and facilitate self-development. If you like to work hard, are willing to view work as a source of learning, and possess a strong commitment to personal growth, then you will thrive in this environment. Need not be Buddhist or have any religious affiliation to apply. For more information, call (510) 981-1987 or email contact@nyingmavolunteer.org.

Experience hands-on spirituality in an intentional community guided by the teachings of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

• Looking for an opportunity to unite practical accomplishment with spiritual development? Immerse yourself in a lifestyle that combines aspects of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition with a strong work ethic of accomplishment for the benefit of all humanity. View Photos »

Hawaii Quests more

Surrounded by thermal springs, tidal pools, waterfalls, botanical gardens, black sand beaches and spectacular Volcanoes National Park, Kalani treats visitors to Hawaii's aloha spirit, offering transformative cultural 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. Over 100 volunteers support the daily operations of this charitable retreat center. Volunteers assist in kitchen, housekeeping, maintenance or horticulture four days each week. The initial time commitment is either one, two or three months, with options for extending. The 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 healthy meals a day (vegetarian & vegan options available), weekly activities, full use of facilities (including a clothing-optional swimming pool, hot tubs, sauna, workout room), and vacation time (for personal relaxation, exploration or intensive study). Nearby attractions include volcano and rainforest treks, dolphin swims, and snorkeling. Volunteers receive reduced rates for adventures, massage and some workshops. Kalani's weekly schedule of 50+ classes in yoga/wellness, Hawaiian culture, and performing arts is free for volunteers. Kalani's one-month Sabbatical Program offers further benefits and requires two days work per week. 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.

Become part of a community of friendly, spirited, and hardworking individuals whose dedication and creativity make Kalani a special place to live.

Upon arrival at the Kalani 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 more

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! eOmega.org

• 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.

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 next Celebrate Your Life conference kicks off in Chicago on June 8th, 2012.

Interested in holistic health, well-being, creativity, spirituality, gardening, education, art or social health? LILIPOH is a well-rounded, solution-oriented lifestyles magazine for creative, green-minded, thinking individuals.

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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