6 Day Silent Mandali Experience

The 6 Day Silent Mandali Experience is a silent meditation retreat at Mandali Retreat Center in Italy, built around guided meditation, yoga, optional qigong and long stretches of quiet. It is open to everyone, with no prior experience needed, and is held in English. Offered in January as a pause before the year's plans take hold, it is led by Mandali's own team of teachers, who guide the practice without crowding the days.

What to Expect

Silence here is social silence. It is observed at all meals and between classes, while teachers speak during classes. Teachers and staff are always available if you need to communicate or need help. Some group sessions include space for questions, and the first and last meals are shared without silence, a gentle opening and closing to the week.

The retreat runs six days and five nights. On arrival day the programme begins at 3 PM, with check-in from 2 PM. An opening circle at 16:00 is followed by tea, a yoga or qigong class, dinner, and an evening meditation at 20:30 that marks the entry into silence.

The middle days follow a steady rhythm:

- 07:45 morning meditation
- 08:30 breakfast
- 09:30 guided nature walk
- 11:30 yoga or qigong
- 13:00 lunch
- 16:00 themed workshop
- 17:30 yoga or qigong
- 19:00 dinner
- 20:30 evening meditation

The themed sessions draw on each teacher's speciality. Qigong is offered only when the schedule, shared on arrival, says so. On the final day there is an early yoga or qigong practice at 07:15, breakfast, a closing circle and meditation at 10:30, lunch at 12:30, and departure at 14:00.

The structure is gentle and the choices are yours. You might rise early for practice or linger over breakfast, walk the trails, meditate on your veranda, use the sauna, or rest.

The Setting

Mandali sits in mountain surroundings, with a lake that catches the winter light. The grounds hold scenic hiking trails, contemplative outdoor nooks, permaculture gardens and peaceful practice rooms, with yoga and meditation props provided. Rooms are cosy and welcoming.

The Body Care Centre, with a pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, is open to participants. Massage and other therapies are available there at extra cost.

Meals are freshly prepared and vegetarian, three a day, with tea, fruit and snacks through the day.

Before You Go

The programme is designed for all levels, with gentle yoga and guided meditation, so beginners are welcome alongside regular practitioners.

Included are five nights of accommodation, all meals and tea time, four daily classes of meditation and movement, a themed session each day, 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 massage or therapies. Plan your own travel from Malpensa accordingly.