Through innovative educational experiences that awaken the best in the human spirit, Omega provides hope and healing for individuals and society. Mission Statement of The Omega Institute
The Omega Institute, a beautifully simple retreat center near Rhinebeck, takes advantage of the area’s picturesque and peaceful surroundings to create this world renowned sanctuary. Locals and visitors can visit to find that quiet spot within us, to remember who we are, and then go back to our daily lives with that part of Omega still in our soul.
There’s always something interesting and provocative going on here, between regular classes, and special workshops. This summer is no exception. Three unique gatherings, could be the title of the 2010 summer offerings. The first two, Omega Arts Week, and Omega Retreat Week, took place in July. The campus came alive with music, dance, visual and written arts, along with at least one more physical activity, trying out a trapeze. And then quieted down a bit for the retreat week to accommodate those looking to “add breadth and depth to the spiritual path.”
The entire month of August offers family and individual programs of varied lengths (one day, a weekend, others for a week). The third installment, “Omega Family Week,” runs from August 8 through 13, offering parents and kids a time of balance and togetherness. There are programs for families to work on together, and some to work on individually. Omega addresses the issue of keeping your sanity with the program, “Everyday Dharma.” Says teacher and author Lama Willa Miller, “Dharma means ‘spiritual practice’; it’s what we do every day to live more gracefully and to sustain a better world.”
Through her seven-day workshop at the Omega, Miller will take students through the tasks of learning approachable and user-friendly meditative and spiritual practices from the Tibetan tradition in “a fun, accessible, and supportive format.” Topics include “Know Your Potential,” where we are reminded that we are all able to meditate and create internal harmony, and one of my favorites, “Create a Sacred Space,” suggestions on how to find a spot – however cozy and simple – where one can find refuge from outside stresses, to quiet the mind and be serene. Her “Everyday Dharma,” guidebook is a companion piece to the program and a way to prepare for the activities.
Other programs include ones of introspection like “Labyrinth Walking,” “Unleash Your Calling,” and “Memoir Lab,” and some that engage the artist or athlete within, like “Whole Foods Cooking with the Family,” Unleashing the Tennis Player Within,” and “Watercolor: A New Beginning.”
“Omega Retreat Week brings together a group of extraordinary teachers from many traditions to add breadth and depth to the spiritual path. Retreats range from inward contemplation to outward celebration, all equally sacred. Lama Willa Miller’s workshop, Everyday Dharma, offers tools for busy people who would like to make space for a daily spiritual practice as a balance to the stresses of work, home, and family,” said Chrissa Pullicino, Media Relations Manager.
Consider The Omega Institute when planning a family vacation. It’s a little bit of summer camp, with a sense of peace, without the traffic, the noise and the expense of other typical vacations. This one will be more memorable than any other. Lodging and meals available.
The Omega Institute
150 Lake Drive
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
www.eomega.org
