Cultivating EB: Reflections from the Organizational Exploratory Program Retreat
In the serene countryside of Frome, UK, amidst the lush greenery of a regenerative farm and retreat center known as 42 Acres, a transformative journey reached its crescendo. A group of visionary leaders converged for the final retreat of the Organizational Exploratory Program (OEP), an initiative that champions collective collaboration in discovering and implementing organizational wellbeing practices.
The OEP, spearheaded by The Wellbeing Project, has been a beacon of innovation in the realm of organizational development. Its mission? To infuse workplaces with a culture of holistic wellbeing, nurturing environments where individuals thrive and organizations flourish. And as these leaders gathered for their culminating experience, they brought with them a profound commitment to explore new horizons, embracing the interconnectedness of personal, organizational, and planetary wellbeing.
At the heart of this final retreat lay a pivotal realization: the recognition of Ecological Belonging as a cornerstone of wellbeing, both for individuals and the organizations they steward. As they roamed the verdant grounds of 42 Acres, enveloped by the gentle embrace of nature, these leaders embarked on a journey of introspection and connection—a journey that transcended boardrooms and bottom lines, delving deep into the essence of what it means to be part of a thriving ecosystem.
Ecological Belonging beckoned them to reframe their understanding of wellbeing, inviting them to expand their circle of concern beyond the confines of human-centric paradigms. It urged them to recognize the inherent interconnectedness between organizational health and planetary vitality—to understand that the wellbeing of one is inextricably linked to the wellbeing of all.
As they sat in contemplation and discussion, sharing insights and weaving together diverse perspectives, the leaders began to unravel what it means to truly connect with self, others, and the natural world all as one. Together, we gathered for meals comprised of food from the land, we went on a foraging exploration of the land and heightened our appreciation for the interconnectedness between our minds, bodies, and souls when exploring the nature of the grounds.
The retreat served as a crucible for transformation—a space where seeds of inspiration were sown, nurtured by the fertile soil of collective wisdom. As these leaders return to their respective organizations, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose—a commitment to cultivate environments where individuals, communities, and ecosystems thrive in harmony.
The journey does not end here. It is but a beginning—a catalyst for a broader movement towards holistic wellbeing and Ecological Belonging. And as the sun sets over the rolling hills of Frome, a new chapter unfolds—one where organizations stand not only as pillars of prosperity but as beacons of sustainability, rooted in the timeless wisdom of Ecological Belonging.
Special thanks to Be The Earth for supporting this retreat.
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