6 Day Silent Mandali Experience

The 6 Day Silent Mandali Experience is a silent meditation retreat at Mandali Retreat Center in Quarna Sopra, in the Piedmont region of Italy. Held in the first days of the new year, it pairs guided meditation with yoga and qigong, nature walks and quiet time in the mountains. It is open to all levels, and is a good fit for anyone who wants to begin the year in stillness rather than with resolutions. Mandali's team of teachers guides the programme in English.

What to Expect

The retreat runs for six days and five nights. On the first afternoon the group gathers for an opening circle, where you meet fellow participants and teachers and get oriented to the rhythm of the place. After dinner, the evening meditation marks the entering of silence.

From then on, social silence is observed at meals and between classes. Teachers speak during classes, and some group sessions include space for questions. Teachers and staff are always available if you need to communicate or ask for help. The first and last meals are shared in conversation, a gentle opening and closing to the time together.

A typical full day looks like this:

- 07:45 Morning meditation
- 08:30 Breakfast
- 09:30 Guided nature walk
- 11:30 Yoga or qigong
- 13:00 Lunch
- 16:00 Themed workshop, led by a Mandali teacher
- 17:30 Yoga or qigong
- 19:00 Dinner
- 20:30 Evening meditation

That adds up to four daily classes of meditation and movement, plus a bonus themed session each day. Qigong is offered only when the schedule, shared on arrival, says so. The structure is gentle, and how you move within it is up to you. You can rise early for practice, linger over breakfast, walk the trails, meditate on your veranda or simply rest. On the last morning there is yoga or qigong, breakfast, then a closing circle and meditation, followed by lunch, with departure from 14:00.

The Setting

Mandali sits in the mountains above a lake, and the grounds include scenic hiking trails, contemplative outdoor nooks and permaculture gardens. Practice rooms are peaceful, and yoga and meditation props are provided. Rooms are cosy and welcoming.

The Body Care Centre has a pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, all included. Massages and therapies are available there at extra cost. Meals are freshly prepared vegetarian food, three a day, with tea, fruit and snacks through the day.

Before You Go

The programme is designed for a broad range of experience. Movement sessions are guided, and you are free to set your own pace, rest or step out of any practice.

Check-in is from 14:00, and the programme begins at 15:00. Included are five nights of accommodation, all meals, tea and snacks, the four daily classes, themed sessions, 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.