The Sacred Manuscript of Nature
Come and immerse yourself in the beautiful Welsh countryside and ‘the Sacred Manuscript of Nature, the only book which can enlighten the reader’ (in the words of Hazrat Inayat Khan, the Sufi mystic). For these days we will live together close to the land and deepen our connection to Mother Earth through many different heart-opening practices. There will be beautiful live music, times of sharing, and simple practices to develop our understanding of ourselves and our connection with each other and with Sacred Unity. There will also be space to sit by the camp fire and chat, or walk in the local nature reserve. You can find your own balance between safe, friendly connection and peaceful solitude.
There will also be opportunities for training for dance leaders, including circles where new or more experienced dancers, dance leaders and musicians can explore the dance leading journey, with guidance and supporting practices held by Jilani, who is a very experienced mentor and trainer of dance leaders.
This event is offered in association with Khankah of the Heart, a UK Sufi community based not in bricks and mortar, but in the loving hearts of everyone who feels part of it. Through Khankah of the Heart we may be able to offer some bursaries for those who would otherwise be prevented from attending this camp by the cost. Please ask!
Rissa of Yew Tree Camps has this to say about the site:
‘Meadow Ground overlooks the gorgeous Welsh Valleys and enjoys dramatic views and spectacular skies from its position on the hillside. The Stone Circle is a formation of English and Welsh stones, which came together serendipitously to create a deep and mystical place for the dances. We are immersed in nature amongst the hedgehogs, owls, buzzards, bluebells, orchids and new and old trees.
The land has been lovingly tended to and developed to create the beautiful and magical setting for these camps. We are blessed by the full range of weather that Wales provides; beautiful sunny days, misty rainy days and everything in between – it is therefore good to pack for all seasons!
We have various sheltered spaces for workshops, lovely compost loos (including a new accessible compost toilet) and a mains water supply for drinking, hand washing, cooking, showering and bathing. We will maintain an open fire which marks the centre of our camping circle.
Please ask us about alternative accommodation and any other access needs you may require. Our field may not be suitable for everyone as the ground is uneven in places, but we would love to accommodate you as much as we can. We have options available to help you attend more comfortably if you aren’t able to camp or don’t wish to. If you need to travel light, we can help with some basic supplies like tents or bedding, however these are limited. See below under Accommodation Options.
We have three cats who love the freedom of the field. Therefore we are not able to accommodate other peoples pets on the field.’
More Details
This exciting event is designed to be affordable, and please do enquire if you need further help to be able to attend. Conversely, if you find the price is reasonable or cheap for the value which is being offered, please consider offering a donation to subsidise those who are less well off.
Bring anything you need to be comfortable, including special food. You might also like to bring teas/coffees and delicious snacks to share. Our meals will be suitable for vegetarians, with vegan and gluten free options, and are included in the price you pay. We will all offer our karma yoga or Seva services in turn to chop wood and vegetables, wash up and clear away.
Places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment! Last year the camp sold out. Contact Jilani with any questions prior to booking
Accommodation Options
The cost of the camp includes three meals a day and the charge for a camping (or camper van) space. For a small additional fee, you can enjoy a range of different accommodation possibilities if you can’t, or don’t want to, bring your own tent or camper van. We have a few tents with cosy bedding for hire, and there are also some comfy beds in different spaces, including a yurt, the former stable block, a caravan and a camper van. There are 18 such spaces altogether. Some are shared, some sole occupancy, and the prices range from £60-£170 for the week. Please enquire if you would like to book accommodation. There is also the possibility of nearby AirBnBs if you prefer more luxurious lodging.
