Meditation and mindfulness in the HErault region
near Vieussan

It was in 2005 that we organised our first meditation gathering in the Hérault region. There were about twenty of us camping by the river: Belgians, Americans, Israelis, English, Dutch, Germans… and three or four French people. Local person… Since then, we have worked hard to make Dharma Nature more local. And here is the next step: increase the number of short, sometimes spontaneous proposals that are therefore only accessible to those who live a few hours’ drive away.

Mindfulness hiking

The hike is organised spontaneously, so please also read the paragraph on our means of communication to stay informed.

Walking in nature is meditative in itself. The regularity of walking, the physical effort, the beauty of nature—all of this calms the mind, reopens the heart, and often allows us to see more clearly where we are.

Meditative walking magnifies this natural process by adding a clear intention to be present to ourselves, a disinterest in our usual ruminations, and conscious attention to the beauty that surrounds us. This combination of two practices as basic as they are ancient (walking and being mindful) reconnects us with what is essential, nourishes the often-neglected life within us, simplifies us, awakens joy and enthusiasm, and illuminates our vision with new perspectives.

The sangha’s monthly gatherings

On the first Friday of every month, the Sangha meets from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to meditate and then have lunch together. The meeting takes place at one of our homes in turn.

For over 15 years now, some of us have been gathering once a month to meditate, discuss, and eat together.

It’s not a retreat, there’s no teaching, it’s just for the pleasure of getting together with people who share the same values, practising together and forging bonds. We call it the Sangha.