April 10 - 15, 2023
Awakening Peace, Equanimity, and Joy
in Assisi, Italy
with Linda Cammarata, RYT and Larry Cammarata, Ph.D.
Learn and explore within a friendly and supportive small group setting.
Click the play button below to view a video about our location.
Our retreat is located at Castello Petrata, close to the medieval town of Assisi, in the Umbria region of Italy, which has been described by Lonely Planet as, "Italy's green heart…a land unto itself, the only Italian region that borders neither the sea nor another country. Removed from outside influences, it has kept alive many of Italy's old-world traditions." Please see the videos at the bottom of this page, which provide an overview of the Umbria region and a detailed look at Assisi.
Castello Petrata is a castle perched high upon a peaceful plateau in the countryside outside of Assisi. The birthplace of Saint Francis, Assisi is recognized as a spiritual World Heritage site. Castello Petrata was built from an ancient 14th century fortress, close to the Basilica of Saint Francis. You will visit a medieval town, hike in a beautiful forest, explore Assisi, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and get to know the friendly local Italians.
The retreat includes educational classes that focus upon the applications of mindfulness, compassion, and mindful movement for your clients, patients, and students. Gentle yoga classes are also provided to support your wellbeing. Scheduled excursions and free time for personal exploration and relaxation are included.
THE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
For complete CE information for licensed mental health professionals, physicians, and nurses, please click on Educational Programs prior to registering.
Mindful Movement for Self-Regulation with Dr. Larry Cammarata
This educational program integrates the application of mindfulness, mindful movement, and body awareness skills in the treatment of psychological and psychophysiological disorders. Mindful movement is an accessible body-centered mindfulness practice that may be of particular benefit to clients and patients who are challenged by the sitting required of many mindfulness practices. Mindful movement can be used as a standalone mindfulness practice or as a complement to seated meditation. The practice of mindful movement develops the ability to regulate the mind, body, and breath, which can reduce the symptoms and suffering associated with psychological conditions such as Anxiety Disorders and Trauma and Stress-Related Disorders. We will examine mindfulness, mindful movement, and client-directed body-oriented interventions designed to facilitate self-regulation, mood stabilization, enhanced concentration, and quality of life.
THE YOGA PROGRAM
Gentle Yoga with Linda Cammarata, RYT, RN (retired)
In addition to the continuing education program, Linda Cammarata, RYT, RN (retired) will be teaching gentle therapeutic yoga classes that are appropriate for beginners as well as more experienced yoga practitioners. Linda’s classes will support your immune system, align your structure, and facilitate deep relaxation. The classes will cultivate flexibility, strength, and vitality. No prior experience with yoga is required.
RETREAT OVERVIEW
Educational Program
Mindful Movement for Self-Regulation: Evidence-Based Benefits and Clinical Applications with Dr. Larry Cammarata
For complete CE information for licensed mental health professionals, physicians, and nurses, please click on Educational Programs prior to registering.
Also included at the retreat
Yoga classes with Linda Cammarata, RYT
Accommodations for 5 nights and 6 days at the grand Castello Petrata
Daily breakfast and gourmet dinner, plus scheduled lunches at Castello Petrata
Guided hike in the “Bosco di San Francesco” (Woodland of Saint Francis) and on to the Basilica of Saint Francis and the medieval town of Assisi
Tours of Eremo delle Carcere (a mountain forest hermitage of Saint Francis) and Rocca Maggiore (a medieval fortress that overlooks the town of Assisi)
Optional spa services
"I cannot put into accurate words how meaningful the Assisi seminar was both on a personal and professional level. You and Larry are such fluid examples of 'global citizens', your practice and facilitation demonstrate such loving beauty. Thank you for the inspiration to live my truth, take my seat at the table of mindful psychotherapists, and trust that which is fluid within me. We have much to digest in the richness of the seminar. We have grown as individuals, which has allowed our relationship to awaken.”
L.C., CMHC
FEE, REGISTRATION, AND CONTACT INFORMATION
$ 2550: Double occupancy (USD credit card, per person, double occupancy, airfare not included)
$ 2950: Single occupancy (USD credit card, per person, single occupancy, airfare not included)
Registration and Payment: Please email Linda Cammarata to register or to inquire about private room availability prior to submitting your payment. After registering, you may pay by credit card through an online invoice that will be emailed to you.
Questions? Email Linda Cammarata
Phone: 828-398-4680
Please see the photos, videos, and instructor bios below.
Basilica of Saint Francis
MEET OUR TEAM
Larry Cammarata, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who specializes in mindfulness-based therapy and education, including the science and practice of mindful movement. He is the Director of Education of Mindfulness Travels and is also the Director of Training for East Bay Mindfulness Center. Larry is also an instructor of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong who has received advanced training in China and in the US. He was designated as an "Author-Expert" by IDEA for his writing, teaching, and service in the field of mid-body health, fitness, and wellness. His mindful movement work was presented at the 11th Annual International Scientific Conference of the Center for Mindfulness at the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine.
Linda Cammarata, RYT, RN (retired) is a Registered Yoga Teacher and retired Registered Nurse who specializes in applying mind-body practices of self-regulation to stress, mood, and sleep health. She is the Founder and Director of Mindfulness Travels and Natural Sleep Recovery. Linda has designed and presented wellness programs at world renowned spas in the US and internationally. She integrates mindfulness, gentle yoga, qigong, and contemporary science into her teachings. Her professional experience spans over 30 years in tradtional and complementary healthcare and wellness settings.
More Photos and Videos
Castello Petrata
Photos from previous Assisi retreats
Mindful movement in the beautiful gardens of Castello Petrata
Autumn mornings often greet us with a beautiful mist that disappears into the sunshine of the day.
The expansive grounds of Castello Petrata provide many scenic tranquil spaces for rest and relaxation.
The ancient village of Assisi is a friendly place that offers culture, points of historical interest, inspiration, and great food.
Assisi is a place where you will want to get 'lost' in one of its many enchanting alleyways.The cobblestone streets can easily transport you to earthly delights of gelato and cappuccino as well as spiritual nourishment.
Members of our joyous group atop the 14th Century “Annamaria Tower”, discovered during a walk through the Woodland of Saint Francis.
This statue of Saint Francis greets you as you enter his mountain hermitage. Notice the inclusive religious symbols that surround him. Everyone is warmly welcomed here.
Rocca Maggiore is a medieval fortress that sits high upon a hill overlooking Assisi.
Terzo Paradiso (Third Paradise) is a land art installation by Michelangelo Pistoletto consisting of 121 olive trees. You will learn about its symbolism during our retreat. This photo was taken from the top of Rocca Maggiore during our October 2017 visit.
VIDEO: Assisi, Italy
VIDEO: The Umbria Region of Italy
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