We use the term eldership for an almost indescribable attitude of natural curiosity, vitality, and an overall helpfulness in a given situation. Eldership is not a fixed state, but a momentary experience, accessible to anyone. Role models, such as Nelson Mandela inspire a vision of eldership, in shining a light on the profound gifts and strengths of others. Such giants remind us of the innate characteristics that anyone of us can develop and use in our own lives, families and communities. At times, life itself seems to push us to the brink, even against our rational will, to discover moments of eldership through the many ups and downs we experience through life.

Experiential and interactive learning, group work, expressive arts through clay, and optional beginning Yoga and body exercises. Uncover and shift attitudes about aging in a heartful and vibrant learning community. Enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings and be nourished by the care and serenity of our hosts. You will have ample opportunity in this peaceful setting to allow yourself to go deep within, be mindful and reflective.

Each day Nader and Julia will offer a short thematic presentation on aspects of facilitation and eldership. As an entire group we will practice facilitation skills using topics of interest to participants. Behind interactions are different levels of experience – the ability to stay grounded in everyday reality and analysis; the emotional bandwidth to embrace tension and complications; and a detachment to allow an impossible situation to move forward, with all the inherent ups and downs. Our group process method invites creative exchange that allows these different levels as well as many sides and aspects of a situation to become visible in fresh and frank exchange, and make space for spontaneous insights and creative solutions to arise. Topics and questions of participants will set the tone for our process.

Madeleine, artist and potter, will guide participants in experimenting with clay, inviting play and spontaneity, while integrating ideas and experiences creatively. Through the medium of Clay emotions and feelings can be expressed creatively where it can be hard to reach with the use of words.

Art, yoga, poetry, literature, and story-telling, small groups and inner work are other refreshing ways we may use depending on the moment, to share what matters, and get to know as yet undiscovered aspects of ourselves, and who we are becoming.  

Farfa provides an opportunity for deep personal reflection contributing to changing, adapting, and reinforcing our world view around aging or eldership – the serene setting allows us to go deep within ourselves to be mindful and reflective. 

The rhythm of the day includes time to rest, to go for walks, to enjoy the local village, to enjoy good company, and the nourishing meals prepared by the nuns at Farfa Abbey. 

• A joyous attitude to life and ageing.

• Tools to more deeply understand yourself and others.

• Share these skills and continue this conversation in your communities at home.

Venue: International Bridgettine Centre of Farfa, Via del Monastero 12, 02030 Farfa Sabina, Italy

Join us in Farfa, a medieval Italian village, close to Rome. The Abbey is in the heart of the Sabine hills, a place full of peace, serenity and simplicity.

Residential Cost: The fee includes full board & lodging, programme materials & tuition beginning with dinner on the first day and ending with lunch on the last day.

More Info About Staying in Farfa