With Blomstergården, Jan and Anne fulfilled a long-held dream. After a two-year renovation of this listed farmhouse in a UNESCO World Heritage ‘Wendland Round Village’, it became a source of inspiration for numerous new projects. In pilot programs, participants already experienced the power of Blomstergården’s nature–planting in the orchard meadow, foraging wild herbs, collecting mushrooms, or gathering around the campfire. Consistent feedback emphasized a great desire for programs focused on reconnecting with nature, exchanging ideas, and taking mindful breaks from the fast-paced world, inspiring the creation of our Nature Workation programs.
Discovering the artful world of Ikebana and letting creativity blossom.
Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of floral arrangement meaning "living flowers," originated in the 7th century when Buddhist priests used flowers as temple offerings. Emphasizing balance, proportion, and harmony, Ikebana is both an aesthetic expression and a meditative practice that promotes inner peace and mindfulness.In our Ikebana Workshop, you will learn to create harmony through the mindful arrangement of plants, deepening your connection with nature. This workshop fosters creativity, inner peace, and an appreciation for nature’s fleeting beauty. It’s ideal for those seeking a mindful practice, looking to unleash creativity and learn within an inspiring community. Nestled in nature and surrounded by diverse flower species, Blomstergården provides the perfect setting for discovering this art form. Let nature guide your expression through Ikebana!
Understand the history and techniques of Ikebana to create your own arrangements.
2
Creative Expression
Unleash your creativity and express emotions through selecting and arranging natural elements.
3
Nature Connection
Deepen your connection to nature by working with natural materials, gaining insight into its diversity and cycles.
4
Ritual & Meditation
Experience Ikebana as a meditative practice to reduce stress and find inner peace.
5
Symbolism & Harmony
Discover the symbolic meanings of Ikebana and learn to create balance and harmony.
6
Community
Connect with others, and showcase your work in the inspiring setting of Blomstergården.
1 Introduction to Ikebana
Understand the history and techniques of Ikebana to create your own arrangements.
2 Creative Expression
Unleash your creativity and express emotions through selecting and arranging natural elements.
3 Nature Connection
Deepen your connection to nature by working with natural materials, gaining insight into its diversity and cycles.
4 Ritual & Meditation
Experience Ikebana as a meditative practice to reduce stress and find inner peace.
5 Symbolism & Harmony
Discover the symbolic meanings of Ikebana and learn to create balance and harmony.
6 Community
Connect with others, and showcase your work in the inspiring setting of Blomstergården.
Program Elements
Introduction
Introduction to the fundamental principles and history of Ikebana
Meditation & Journaling
Guided meditation and journaling practices
Creating Ikebana Arrangements
Flower collection from the meadows and fields around Blomstergården and creation of personal Ikebana arrangements guided by Anne and Jan
Reflection & Feedback
Discussion of created arrangements and personal reflection
Deepening & Application
Additional practical exercises and creative sessions
Conclusion & Vernissage
Presentation of completed Ikebana arrangements and closing circle
Location:
Hygge Farmhouse Blomstergården is nestled in the heart of Wendland in northern Germany, surrounded by an abundance of flowers perfect for your Ikebana creations. This heritage-protected building is centrally located within the historic "Wendland Rundling", a UNESCO world heritage site, offering an idyllic setting for our unique Ikebana workshop across three hectares of pristine land.
The arrangement of collected flowers takes place in the spacious living area of Blomstergården, which invites exchange and connection. Meals shared during the workshop are freshly prepared in the cozy kitchen.
Facilitators
Anne BathelCo-Founder & CEO at ReDI School of Digital IntegrationAnne is an innovative leader committed to creating impactful solutions for crises. She founded the ReDI School of Digital Integration to address the refugee crisis. Additionally, Anne has a profound passion for nature-based practices, which she channels into the Nature Workation retreats.
Jan BathelFounder & CEO at ignore gravityJan is a visionary founder and executive coach, leading a range of initiatives including ignore gravity, Grace, and Empathic Organization. Specializing in mindful leadership, cultural transformation, and innovation, Jan’s approach thrives on integrating diverse perspectives to design impactful programs.
Testimonials:
“Don’t be deceived by the cozy farmhouse atmosphere. This programme is a tour de force in stewardship, confronting what holds us back from leading people, organisations, and societies (yes, that big) into healthier futures. It nurtures a shift towards need-oriented management amidst permacrisis and purpose imperatives as the only remaining way to shape change.”Christian Vonscheidt - Head of Content Design, Zalando about the Leadership Retreat
"Kristin, Anne, and Jan create a unique and safe space that fosters honest and open work, both on oneself and with fellow program participants. With effective tools and a lot of fun while working together, I gained essential foundations to build my own Powerful Presence — foundations that I continue to develop and benefit from also after the program."Sümeyra Yilmaz - Course Lead, ReDI Kids & Youth Duisburg about the Powerful Presence Program
"Attending the online classes elevated my workweek through 30-minute embodiment sessions. They helped me move with purpose, sharpen my mind, boost my resilience, supercharge my creativity, and stay healthy – like roots grounding a thriving tree amidst the urban hustle. The sessions helped me and my colleagues grow stronger, both inside and out.”Anne Kjaer Bathel - Co-Founder & CEO of ReDI School of Digital Integration about New Movement Weekly
Upcoming
Program
Dates
Coming soon...
Discover more about our program details, approach, and pricing. We’re excited to connect and collaborate with you.