Wider Horizons produces Transformational Gatherings in Nature for Young Adults, as well as a vibrant programme of ancillary in-person and online events throughout the year. Our aim is to inspire young adults (between the ages of 18 and 25) as they make the transition to the wider world beyond family and further education.

Through workshops, ceremony, music and camp participation, we inspire young adults with the knowledge, energy and self-belief to step into the truth of who they are and embrace life with optimism and belief in the limitless potential that we all possess. We offer experiences to facilitate the development of a sense of peace and empowerment to create a better future and provide opportunities to learn about the great mysteries of life from visionary minds and experts in their fields around all things creative, healing, mystical and conscious.  We share tools for self-care and present cutting-edge discoveries in science, medicine and cosmos and consciousness.

We have created Online Connection, a series of online workshops which provide a space for young adults to connect online and keep in touch after the gatherings.

We offer Work that Reconnects workshops, online and in-person, which help people develop understanding of their feelings and discover their innate connections with each other and the self-healing powers of the web of life, transforming despair and overwhelm into inspired, collaborative action and “active hope”. Based on the teachings of Joanna Macy, the process follows a spiral of practices: Gratitude, Honouring Our Pain for the World, Seeing with New/Ancient Eyes and Going Forth.  Joanna Macy is an environmental activist, author, scholar of Buddhism, general systems theory, and deep ecology.

Our Mission

Inspiring young adults through connection to nature, community, self and Spirit.

Aims

Our aims are for you to:

Learn about and experience alternative views of the structure and nature of the mind, world and universe and the great mysteries of existence.

Learn methods of self-care and develop self-awareness, integrity, empowerment, independence, creativity, inner peace and a sense of belonging,

Experience understanding, empathy and compassion towards others through helping, encouraging, supporting and cooperating with others in workshops and participation in running the camp.

Develop your understanding of the current environmental crises and devise practical, holistic solutions to care for nature.

Experience a heartfelt connection with your inner self, others, nature and all life and a sense of awe and wonder.

The Gathering and Beyond

Wider Horizons has workshops which provide a variety of opportunities to learn about and experience alternative views of the structure and nature of the mind and the world around.  There are practical experiences in art, music, dance and healing and participation in the creation of the retreat is a key component.  We put on ongoing events throughout the year.

Production

Ben Gross MBACP(Accred) MSc PGCE MBSR BSc(Hons) is the producer and curator of Wider Horizons. He is a transpersonal psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, lecturer at the University of Greenwich, meditation teacher and musician. He has been organising retreats in nature for 30 years. These events are devised and delivered by Ben Gross as an independent event organiser.

Olly Robinson, Lindsey Vandita Spinks, Jimena Paratcha and  Zak Avery (young adult consultant) form the Production Team.  All the contributors and a group of young adults are involved in the design and curation of Wider Horizons. If you would like to get involved please contact us.