Nature Retreat 9/2026

The nearby nature of Valamo Monastery calms the mind. We live in a time where performance and the pursuit of results are constantly accelerating, leading us to daily rushing. There is no time left for mere being, which is considered a waste of time. But being is much more than idleness. It is a state of silence where you confront your own thoughts and feelings, and provide a breeding ground for your inner creativity. In silence, by sensitizing your senses and inner world, you can discover a new kind of connection to yourself and the world. Listen to the sounds of nature, observe your surroundings, and allow your mind to rest in the peace of Valamo Monastery. A walk in the cemetery or a hike to the traveler's cross offers an opportunity to stop and encounter silence within yourself. Autumnal Valamo invites you to this path of silence, which guides you towards a deeper connection with yourself! The retreat is led by Dr. Juha Riikonen.

Friday 11.9.

At

14.00 Arrival at the monastery. Dinner at Trapesa.

16.00 Course opening.

16.30 Departure to the cemetery and prayer path.

- Forest mind exercises to strengthen senses, presence skills and contemplation.

18.00 IX Hour. Vespers, Small Compline and Akathist to Sts. Sergius and Herman of Valamo. Winter Church.

19.30 Supper.

20.00 Images of nature, or nature photographs as a source of well-being.

Saturday 12.9.

At

06.00 Midnight Office, Matins and Liturgy.

07.30- Breakfast

09.00 “Under the trees, at the foot of the flowers”. Plants as a source of well-being.

10.00 Nature hike to the pilgrim's cross, and to the lean-to, where pot coffee will be brewed and an akathist (prayer service) to creation will be listened to.

12.00 Prayer service in the church.

13.00 Lunch

14.30 We will get to know Valamo's churches.

15.30 "Pampering for hands and feet - plants supporting well-being", i.e. a workshop where hand exfoliation is done and foot cream is prepared.

18.00 Vigil

20.00 Supper

Sunday 13.9.

At

7.30- Breakfast

08.00 Morning walk around the monastery.

09.00 III Hour and Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. Panagia.

11.30 Lunch and course summary.