The Venue
The Follökna Mansion
The estate dates back to medieval times and was once owned by Queen Christina. The present building was raised in 1840. It has a quiet location, by a lake, and includes an island with almost pristine nature and a non-denominal chapel.
The island's name is 'Troll Island' because in old times it was believed that trolls lived there. It has now been referred to 'The Island of Tranquility' for the past fifty years. There are places for swimming. All in all, this is presented as a venue that is particularly suited for retreats.
There are fifty beds, most in double rooms. Two halls for gatherings with capacity for fifty people are available. Standard is old fashioned and simple, but it is practical and the place is well taken care of.
Arrival
- Please arrive on Friday between 4.30 and if possible by 6.30. We will have supper at around 6:30.
Departure
- We finish on the following Thursday morning. If you need to leave early to catch a flight our last meditation will be finished by 9.00, but if you can stay till 10.30 or 11.00 to help clear up that is a real help.
Food
All food is included, but if you want to bring anything that you especially like, e.g. favorite teabags or snacks/treats or cake/pudding to share then please do. All food will be vegetarian.
Offerings and Flowers
We will do an offering ritual at the end of the retreat, if you'd like to bring something to offer please do. E.g. fruit, chocolate, nuts, in fact, anything tasty that you would like to offer. If you'd like to bring flowers for the altar you are also welcome to do that also, but it is not a requirement.
Cost
850 USD including offering (Dana)
(2-3 work-trade positions in exchange for scholarship:
400 USD + work-trade (cooking))
200 USD to be paid with registration, the rest 30 days before the retreat. All but 100 USD will be refunded in case you must cancel.
Cushions and blankets/ comfortable clothing
Please bring whatever you need for sitting and moving. If you have blankets and cushions please bring them
Please bring comfortable clothing and layers you can put on or take off for sitting and moving.
Waterproofs and warm clothes
Please bring warm clothes and waterproofs, Spring in Sweden is usually quite cool.
Ritual implements
Bring damaru, bell, mala, and vajra. Do not bring your Kangling if it involves possible legal problems with the customs.
