3 Day Mandali Experience

The 3 Day Mandali Experience is a wellness retreat in Piedmont, Italy, built around yoga, meditation, qigong and time in nature. It is the signature in-house programme of Mandali Retreat Center, and it is meant for anyone who wants to step out of daily demands, rest, and find their own natural rhythm. Beginners and long-time practitioners are equally welcome, and it is led by the centre's own team of teachers.

What to Expect

The retreat runs for three days and two nights. Arrival is gentle: check-in opens at 14:00, the programme begins at 15:00, and the group gathers for an opening circle from 16:00 to 17:00 to meet the teachers and other participants, learn how the days work, and hear about the surroundings. Yoga or qigong follows in the early evening, then dinner and an evening meditation.

The middle day sets the daily rhythm. Morning meditation begins at 07:45, followed by breakfast, then a guided nature walk from 09:30 to 11:30. Late morning brings a yoga or qigong practice, and the afternoon is open until a themed workshop at 16:00, a session curated by one of the Mandali teachers. A second yoga or qigong class runs in the early evening, with dinner and a closing meditation after. Qigong is offered only when the schedule, given on arrival, says so.

Across the programme there are twice-daily guided meditations, periods of silence, and open themed sessions. Nothing is compulsory. You can rise for an early class or sleep in and have a quiet breakfast, soak in the hot tub overlooking the lake, meditate on your veranda, or simply walk the grounds. Participation is as much or as little as you choose.

On the final morning there is an early yoga or qigong practice and breakfast, then a closing circle and meditation from 10:30 to 12:00. Lunch is at 12:30, and departure is at 14:00.

The Setting

Mandali Retreat Center sits in the Piedmont countryside of northern Italy, among scenic hiking trails, permaculture gardens and quiet outdoor nooks for contemplation. The front desk can suggest trails and points of interest for a gentle walk.

Guests stay in cosy rooms, many with verandas suited to quiet meditation and views over the grounds. Practice rooms are peaceful, and yoga and meditation props are provided. The Body Care Centre has a pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, all open to retreat guests. Massages and therapies are available there at extra cost.

Meals are freshly prepared vegetarian dishes, three a day, with tea and fruit available throughout the day. The nearest international airport is Malpensa.

Before You Go

This retreat is for all levels. No prior experience of meditation, yoga or qigong is needed, and you set your own pace. The programme is held in English.

Included are two nights of accommodation, three vegetarian meals a day plus tea time and snacks, four daily classes of meditation and movement, the themed session with a Mandali teacher, the welcoming and closing meetings, and use of the Body Care Centre facilities.

Not included are flights to and from Malpensa International Airport, transfers to and from the retreat centre, and massages or therapies at the Body Care Centre.

Past guests describe slowing down, quieting the thinking mind, and valuing the silence, along with comfortable rooms and good food.