It gives us immense pleasure to introduce you to Peter Grunwald, who has been leading six-day Retreats at Mana for almost three decades. Peter explores the integration of vision, eyesight, posture, movement, relaxation, imagination and brain function. His EYEBODY® method is a principle-based educational process that can transform your way of seeing and being.
It is a pleasure to hear from Peter as he shares his journey and experience at Mana.
“The intentions behind Mana and their focus on the awakening of consciousness inspired me to discover my unique work called Eyebody”
When did you come to know this land?
Arriving in New Zealand from Germany over 40 years ago, I met the trustees of Mana Retreat Centre. Their vision of community and consciousness inspired me to study a healing art to contribute to and enrich consciousness in the community of Mana.
Six years later in 1990, I came back with a deep dive into the somatic field of the Alexander Technique, experimental theatre performance trainings, and an innate desire to explore vision and its impact on the soul and brain’s organ of perception – the eyes.
Can you tell us about your experience at Mana?
For me Mana was and is the ‘gold standard’ of how a Retreat Centre can be. In my view, it is one of the few Retreat Centres worldwide which combine beauty, care, love, trust, safety, being held, generosity, exquisite food and consciousness where embodied vision can expand effortlessly.
When did you start your first Retreats at Mana?
Shortly after the initiation of the Mana buildings, I began my first ever six-day retreat. It has become an annual event that I look forward to every year. These retreats are a journey to improve our inner and outer vision, posture and movement through meditation and curiosity.
How do you view Retreats in general?
Attending retreats regularly can create a deep sense of nourishment, refinement, discovery, ecstasy, joy, and fulfillment. Over the last 30 years it has been amazing to witness many participants, teachers helpers and staff at Mana being heard, seen, and moved deeply in their journey to grow and live to their full human potential.
“Let me offer thanks to all of you who participated in manifesting the original seed of vision by the trustees. Your friendship means a lot to me.
Thank you to Mana and all the humanness behind it”.
Interview by Peter Grunwald.
