Holding the First ‘Spirit of Iona’ Retreat Weeks
Written by Andrew Powell
Dear Friends of the Findhorn Foundation,
As we stand at the threshold of a new chapter in our journey, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and reverence for the path that we are co-creating. It is with great joy that I share with you the progress of the reopening of our beloved retreat house, Traigh Bhan, on the sacred Isle of Iona. This little milestone is not just a testament to the collective efforts of so many but also to the enduring spirit of the Findhorn Foundation as we navigate through a period of profound change and renewal.
Andrew with Spirit of Iona retreat participants at Traigh Bhan
The journey to reopening Traigh Bhan has been one of both personal challenge and inspiration. In recent months, as the Foundation has undergone significant restructuring, we have had to reimagine and re-establish systems to support this new endeavour. The process has demanded creativity, resilience, and a deep commitment to our emergent vision. There were moments of uncertainty, where the complexities of bringing life back to the house seemed daunting. Yet, throughout it all, we were guided by spiritual attunements and deep inner listening, which is always true to our call and the eternal wellspring of love we all co-create within.
“I have had to lean into our shared practices of meditation, attunement, and prayer, trusting that the path would unfold as it was meant to.”
This spiritual guidance has been my compass, providing clarity and direction as we have worked to align our actions with the higher purpose of the Findhorn Foundation. Each step taken, from the logistical challenges of reopening the house to the subtle work of re-establishing our connection with the land, has been infused with a sense of divine timing and support. I have had to lean into our shared practices of meditation, attunement, and prayer, trusting that the path would unfold as it was meant to.
At the top of Dun I (pronounced Dun Eee in Scottish Gaelic) on the Isle of Iona
Living on Iona during this transformative time has been an experience of deep connection and learning. I have been blessed to hold weekly groups, where we gather to share, reflect, and connect with the energies of this extraordinary place. The land here holds a palpable sense of peace and spiritual presence, and the garden at Traigh Bhan has become a living companion, showing me the pace of life that nurtures and offering a sense of belonging that is so much more than I could have imagined. The elemental beings are so present here, constantly changing my perceptions and unmooring me from the rock and eddies of my conditioned mind. Daily I have felt the profound interconnectedness of all life and genuine enthusiasm for sharing this world with others.
“There is a unique magic to this island, a sense of being held by the land and the elements that support our inner work as much as our outer endeavours.”
Being in community on Iona has been a source of immense support and joy. The shared experience of living and working together has lifted my heart and deepened my sense of purpose. There is a unique magic to this island, a sense of being held by the land and the elements that support our inner work as much as our outer endeavours.
Traigh Bhan (prounounced Try Van in Scottish Gaelic, meaning White Beach)
I am excited to be able to support the development of this experience and offer it for those called, the pilgrims and travellers of this age. A space where individuals can come to reconnect with themselves, the land, and the divine. It is our hope that Traigh Bhan will continue to serve as a beacon of light and healing, not only for those who visit but for the wider world.
I am deeply grateful to be part of our mission of service, spiritual growth, and community, aware of all the blessings and opportunities this has and will continue to offer.
With heartfelt gratitude and anticipation,
Andrew Powell
Education Director
