On being human in challenging times

Addressing the theme of living and being in today’s world

The world is not our oyster anymore…  It has become a challenging place to live in. How to cope with environmental issues, war, political polarisation, and questions on health and poverty? Our economic, social, educational and climatological systems are not sustainable, and we need to make bold system changes.
On a personal level, we are challenged to keep our sanity, optimism, liveliness and agency.

We are perhaps lucky to live in a considerably safe and free place ourselves, but for how long? How do we relate to this ‘poly-crisis’? How can we stay true to our values in this world, as sensitive human beings? Who do we want to be, and what can we thus offer and bring into the world – in whichever way?

The goal of this retreat is to look at the real challenges, and stay determined to do what we can, where we are and with what we have. We will acknowledge the darkness and share where we still see the light, what is helpful, keeping us upright and stable. Working on a positive purpose helps us to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. Let’s inspire and support each other by sharing realistic, mindful choices that help us navigate today’s world. What rituals, books, habits, relationships, or experiences keep you grounded?

Frame of retreat

We start the day with movement, silent walk, yoga or meditation. After breakfast we introduce the theme of the day with a plenary session. This session will be hosted by the organisers.

Then we continue in an “Open Space” modus. Elaborating on the theme of the day, in a curious and creative atmosphere, we co-create the program of the day. Everyone can contribute with an activity, initiative or a question. There will be several time slots and several locations. You are free to offer, join or visit the sessions of others.

PRINCIPLES

• The starting point is our own story, personal questions and personal resources concerning the world today
• We create space for sharing, listening, co-creation and playing
• We will enjoy the community and respect the community guidelines of Land aan Zee
• We will use, where possible and relevant, the tools and language of the Solution Focused philosophy.
  (You don’t need to be a trained Solution focused person to participate but you will experience the strength and value of it!) 

PROGRAM: EVERY DAY HAS A THEME 

27/09: DAY 1. Arrival before 1pm: checking in, landing and connecting.
Afternoon and evening session: Who am I? Where am I now? How has my life unfolded? What is my worldview?

28/09: DAY 2. Facing the world as it is now… How do I relate to this?  Where is my best place now? How can I be of service?

29/09: DAY 3. What is helping me and what/who is holding me back, how can we collaborate and act?

30/09: DAY 4. Harvesting and taking steps, min vision quest in nature and closing ceremony

01/10: DAY 5. Departure after breakfast

FOR WHO? 

If you are a parent, teacher, student, change-agent, creative, executive, HR professional, project manager or simply a human being who values being human, who cares about the current and next generations, you are welcome to our Open Space!

We ask your commitment, presence and willingness to contribute and share your wisdom, best practices, cases and questions to help each other on the journey to a life that is more meaningful, impactful, and enjoyable.

Let’s hold the space for the group together and use where possible the tools and practices of Solution Focus so that we become more creative, feel more competent and have more ideas about the next steps in our lives.

PRACTICALITIES

Maximum 18, early bird till May 1st 2025

4 nights, full board,

• 670 euro for a single room (620 for early birds)
• 510 euro for a double room (460 for early birds)
(If you have a company, you pay + 21% VAT)

If the price is a problem and you are very keen to attend, please contact us.

Who are we and why do we do this?

Jacobien Erbrink
“As an elderly care physician I work with patients in difficult circumstances, focusing on the things that are still possible, on personal qualities and resilience, on quality of life. Values like togetherness, connection, empathy, inclusiveness and mutual caring are a given fact, they are essential to my job and to me. How important to give space to these values, and to strengthen them in present times, to stay human in this alienating world.

And as human health also needs a healthy planet, my other interest is to actively inspire sustainable behaviour in healthcare professionals – an interest in need of hopeful friends and uplifting retreats”

Petra Müller Demary

As a coach and solution focused change facilitator I am always surprised and in owe about our human potential. Magic happens when we truly connect. As a mother and potential grandmother I am aware of the challenges we are facing today and future generations. That can be scary, but also a great chance when we stay connected with our human potential. In the retreat I would like to give space to all there is, bring awareness and connect with our resources and create together a hopeful vision of the future.

Liselotte Baeijaert 

I enjoy creating a safe and beautiful space and I love to create the best conditions for people to connect, reflect, enjoy, transform and to see them leaving with new ideas and renewed energy. There is so much we can do if we  invite the genius in every one of us and tap into each others hearts and minds.