“May our actions produce happiness and illumination for the uplifting of the world.” ~Dalai Lama
In a world of uncertainty and environmental change, the earth and humankind craves kindness and generosity. For it is kindness that has the power to transform our lives, internally, spiritually, and mentally.
As a non-profit organization, Mana relies on the kindness of individuals who give in many ways; through our work exchange program, volunteers, donations and of course, our retreat participants.
We recognize the need to offer opportunities for everyone to come to Mana, to experience mind, body education and transformation. We know the imminent need to care for our earth and minimize waste and harmful chemicals, and we realize the importance of receiving and giving, now more than ever.
When we think about ways we receive and ways we give, we think about the heart of Mana; the people, the land and the buildings. For it is these three entities that make Mana the special place it is.
Giving and receiving is a constant part of life’s natural process; it is what connects us as a community; enabling Mana to thrive. We do not exist alone but together; and together we build a community of simple, wholesome living.
Our vision is to hold a space for mind, body education, and to support all people to experience Mana, no matter their religion, culture or backgrounds. Our work relies on the kindness of individuals who give to Mana in various ways. We recognize that our work does not just happen, it takes a village to sustain and maintain our beautiful sanctuary - Mana.
Only by giving are you able to receive more than you already have.
How we give back
The LAND
MANA WORKING BEES
We view the land as our sacred foundation; our connection to the earth for all Mana buildings and people. In support of giving back to the land, we hold regular working bees and community days work on the land and buildings; often planting many trees to offset our carbon footprint. We use this time to work on the bush trails and repair the buildings so Mana will continue to be a beautiful place to explore in nature. We offer these working bees as all inclusive weekends in return for shared work.
SUSTAINABLE LIVING
In times where people are used to having many things, we value simplicity, beauty and inspiration; and thus, we encourage living sustainably wherever possible, minimizing waste and only using eco-friendly products. We eat as much as we can from the gardens, so caring for the environment is a given.
Our gardens and orchards are a huge part of Mana, providing sustenance all year round; reducing food waste, composting and supporting a healthy ecosystem for all things – the plants, the bees, the insects and birds. Our kitchen ingredients are organic wherever possible and we try to maintain a dairy free, gluten free menu so we tread lightly on the planet.
The PEOPLE
SHOLARSHIPS FOR PEOPLE
We want everyone to have the opportunity to come to Mana. We donate to local Social Services and charities to support those who would not otherwise be able to come.
Our work exchange program offers people from all walks of life, the opportunity to come and live at Mana in return for shared work, community engagement, and a family environment.
The BUILDINGS
We take great pride in our buildings as these were built with carefully selected materials, again, treading lightly on the planet. During our working bee’s we give back to the buildings, repairing and maintaining them so they will continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come.
It is our intention to create an environment of beauty, simplicity and inspiration. More specifically, it is our aspiration to hold a sacred space for all to step into the fullness of their potential.
How you can give back
Ways you can support our vision at Mana:
- Plant a tree initiative to offset our carbon footprint.
- Donate to our Eco Fund initiative to grow more orchards, gardens, solar panels and water heating.
- Sponsor an individual who might not otherwise be able to come to Mana.
- Join a Mana Working Bee
- Join a Mana Work Exchange Program
- Donate to support our vision for the future.
Mana was established for the exploration and awakening of consciousness, the unfolding of our creative and healing potential and the realisation of our essential unity.
Spread Kindness into the World
It is the intention for Mana to serve the community and the planet for many years to come; enabling spiritual healing and awakening of consciousness. Alone, we can accomplish minimal work, but together, we can grow and sustain the future of Mana.
Article Written by the Mana Team.
