Writing Down The Bones: Freeing the Writer Within- A Retreat in Italy

Natalie Goldberg & Wendy Johnson

This unique retreat offers a rare opportunity to work with writing teacher Natalie Goldberg  in the stunning setting of Villa Lina, a five hundred year old Italian villa and organic farm in the heart of Etruria, the beautiful region in which the mysterious ancient Etruscan civilization once prospered. This inspiring locale is ideal for Natalie’s approach, which combines rigor with the creation of space to dream. In coming to a new place such as this extraordinary villa with a fresh mind, our raw potential can take root, our old memories and stories can emerge and we can let the writing of our souls flow.

We will spend our days immersed in writing practice, grounded by sitting and walking meditation and nourished by the beauty and power of this ancient land and surrounded by its majestic trees, flowers, fragrant herbs, rocks, rivers and roads. Bring a notebooks and fast writing pens.

Some mornings we will travel to amazing locations to immerse ourselves in the culture that is truly Italy. Other days we will have informal regional Italian mini cooking classes.

Natalie Goldberg is the author of Writing Down the Bones which started a revolution in the way we think about creativity and practice writing. The book has sold more than 1 million copies and has been translated into 14 languages.  She has most recently written Old Friends From Far Away: the Practice of Writing Memoir. www.nataliegoldberg.com

Wendy Johnson is a meditation teacher, author and organic gardener who co-founded the Farm and Garden program at Green Gulch Farm Zen Center. She is a mentor to the Edible Schoolyard program of Chez Panisse Foundation and writes a regular column, “On Gardening” for Tricycle magazine and is the author of Gardening at the Dragon’s Gate.

Villa Lina:
Situated in the region of northern Lazio (near Tuscany and Umbria) and one hour north of Roma, this gorgeous villa's historic gardens shelter five historic residences surrounded by botanical walks, fountains and 3 swimming pools. Villa Lina is located in the historic and mediaeval town of Ronciglione which is within walking distance to the villa. (www.relaisvillalina.com)

October 1-8, 2012
Early Bird Special (Before June 30): $2,995
After June 30: $3,395 (Double Occupancy)

Trip includes:

• Room and Board
• Meals
• Transfers to and from Airport
• Excursions
• All Classes

For Information and registration, contact Maria Rodriguez at 212-219-2527 ext.135 or mrodriguez@opencenter.org