Stroud town centre venue closes after three years
A TOWN centre venue is closing after three years with the current occupants moving their session online while they look for a new home.
The Stroud Goddess Temple in London Road – a space for honouring the divine feminine in all forms from all traditions – has closed.
While the venue – which opened in late 2021 – is closing, members have clarified that they are looking for a permanent home for the future.
They also said there will be pop-up venues and online sessions during this period.
A spokesperson said: 'We appreciate the patience understanding and compassion in our growth moving forward - it has been not without deep challenges and some difficult decisions.
'With the blessings of landscape and a belief in growing community and offering a kind, abundant and loving space.
'Dreaming and weaving a wider vision which will include finding a much more spacious visible venue that can accommodate a sacred meditative sanctuary 'temple space' and a community hub in one building.
'We will be fund raising and reapplying for grants to support this growth and vision for The Stroud Goddess Temple and would appreciate your continued support with this.
'During this transition we will move to pop up venues in Stroud as often as we can which will offer community connection in person with events and activities.
'More details of this will follow shortly.
'We are also moving our current temple sessions to facebook live, and offerings include Goddess Reiki sessions on Tuesday, Wellbeing Wednesday sessions with Ananda, medidation sessions and more.
'Although the current venue is closing we would like to announce there will be a new permanent space in the future.
'During this growth and renewed expansion we will continue to have an active presence on line and with a pop up travelling temple.
'We are pleased to say that the 'The Cotswold priestess College' will continue as an independent training for more information please email as before with continued support from the Stroud Goddess Temple.
'With huge gratitude to all those that have been involved, grown and supported, past and present, deeps thanks for your dedication passion and vision without all of you we can not be, with you we manifest.'
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Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Stroud town centre venue closes after three years
A TOWN centre venue is closing after three years with the current occupants moving their session online while they look for a new home. The Stroud Goddess Temple in London Road – a space for honouring the divine feminine in all forms from all traditions – has closed. While the venue – which opened in late 2021 – is closing, members have clarified that they are looking for a permanent home for the future. They also said there will be pop-up venues and online sessions during this period. A spokesperson said: 'We appreciate the patience understanding and compassion in our growth moving forward - it has been not without deep challenges and some difficult decisions. 'With the blessings of landscape and a belief in growing community and offering a kind, abundant and loving space. 'Dreaming and weaving a wider vision which will include finding a much more spacious visible venue that can accommodate a sacred meditative sanctuary 'temple space' and a community hub in one building. 'We will be fund raising and reapplying for grants to support this growth and vision for The Stroud Goddess Temple and would appreciate your continued support with this. 'During this transition we will move to pop up venues in Stroud as often as we can which will offer community connection in person with events and activities. 'More details of this will follow shortly. 'We are also moving our current temple sessions to facebook live, and offerings include Goddess Reiki sessions on Tuesday, Wellbeing Wednesday sessions with Ananda, medidation sessions and more. 'Although the current venue is closing we would like to announce there will be a new permanent space in the future. 'During this growth and renewed expansion we will continue to have an active presence on line and with a pop up travelling temple. 'We are pleased to say that the 'The Cotswold priestess College' will continue as an independent training for more information please email as before with continued support from the Stroud Goddess Temple. 'With huge gratitude to all those that have been involved, grown and supported, past and present, deeps thanks for your dedication passion and vision without all of you we can not be, with you we manifest.'
Associated Press
03-04-2025
- Associated Press
Ananda in the Himalayas Returns to The Nautilus Maldives for a Soulful Healing Residency This August
The Nautilus Maldives, Maldives, April 3, 2025 -- At The Nautilus Maldives, wellness is more than a retreat – it is a deeply personal journey of realignment, restoration, and renewal. From 11th to 18th August 2025, The Nautilus welcomes back the globally acclaimed wellness experts from its esteemed partner, Ananda in the Himalayas, for an exclusive residency: 'Holistic Healing for Balancing Energies.' Rooted in the timeless principles of Ayurveda and energy healing, this immersive retreat invites seekers of well-being to recalibrate their inner rhythm. Guided by expert practitioners from Ananda in the Himalayas – the multi-award-winning, world-renowned holistic wellness retreat – the experience draws upon elemental balance to restore vitality, emotional harmony, and a profound sense of inner peace. Guests will be in the care of Ms Sunita Kumari and Mr Sandarbh, each bringing a wealth of knowledge that blends Ayurvedic tradition with contemporary therapeutic insight. With over nine years of international experience, Sunita is renowned for her intuitive ability to enhance circulation, revitalise the body, and support long-term resilience. As a senior trainer at Ananda, she curates bespoke programmes that address the complexities of modern life, while honouring ancient healing philosophies. Sandarbh brings a serene presence and a personalised approach to each treatment, gently encouraging the body's natural rhythm to restore itself. His thoughtful techniques foster a deep sense of calm and release, guiding guests into a state of profound rest and renewal. This intimate residency invites guests to experience Ananda's signature energy-balancing therapies, including Manipura and Kundalini Back Massage, the harmonising Tibetan Ku Nye Massage, and Ananda Moksha – a ritual of release inspired by the concept of liberation and the unimpeded flow of prana. To ensure the journey continues with intention, each guest will receive a complimentary follow-up consultation with Ananda's Ayurvedic physician, offering personalised guidance to support everyday life and wellbeing throughout the year. For those wishing to deepen their journey, curated glimpses of Ananda's Ayurvedic cuisine will be available anytime, anywhere across the island. With just 26 private houses and residences, The Nautilus is a haven of freedom set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll. Surrounded by ivory sands, vibrant coral reefs, and the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean, this island sanctuary offers a space to breathe, to realign, and to simply be. Thoughtfully designed boho-chic interiors, exceptional spa rituals, and unscripted moments of stillness come together to create a true retreat for the soul. Curated Treatments by Ananda's Expert Practitioners at The Nautilus: Manipura Massage (85 mins) Manipura means ' beautiful, shining jewel' in Sanskrit. It refers to the solar plexus (navel) chakra, our centre of fire and sun energy that ignites our health and vitality. This transformative treatment is designed to stimulate and balance the solar 'sun' vitality within us through reflexology and Marma massage, lymphatic drainage, and the application of Himalayan herb poultices applied to the 10 petals of the solar plexus. This unique body ritual combines a Himalayan crystal scrub to purify, detox, and stimulate the lymphatic system with various techniques to harness and restore the energy of the body. Kundalini Back Massage (85 mins) Kundalini – a female goddess of awareness in the form of a coiled snake – is the dormant energy present at the base of the spine. When awakened, this powerful force travels up the spine to the third eye, leading to increased energy and spiritual enlightenment. This treatment begins with a Himalayan crystal scrub to purify, detox, and stimulate the lymphatic system, and also cleanse the energy body. This is followed by a back massage which is deeply soothing and relaxing, balancing the whole nervous system owing to the synergistic use of an essential oil blend combined with ancient techniques of massage and chakra healing. Tibetan Ku Nye Massage (90 mins) A Tibetan body massage designed to balance the five elements and restore a harmonious flow of energy and vitality in the body. A blend of five essential oils, chosen to balance the elements, is combined with traditional Tibetan techniques of cupping, kneading, and acupressure using hot Himalayan crystal salt poultices. The aim of this treatment is to restore the nervous system and stimulate a free flow of energy within the body. Shiatsu (60/90 mins) Ananda Shiatsu is a full-body pressure point experience involving the application of pressure with the thumbs, palms, elbows, and knees to specific points or areas on the body to maintain physical and mental wellbeing. Shiatsu is known for reducing stress, improving circulation, and boosting the immune system. It is also believed to have sedative effects and may alleviate insomnia. In a broader sense, Shiatsu is thought to enhance physical vitality and emotional wellbeing. Deep Tissue Massage (85 mins) Deep tissue massages involve an understanding of the different layers of the body and the ability to work with the tissues in these layers to relax, lengthen, and release holding patterns in the most effective and energy-efficient way possible. They are especially recommended for most forms of chronic muscle tension and are generally effective for individuals who experience overall body tension due to stress or overexertion. Ananda Moksha (90 min) The holistic therapy is inspired by the concept of Moksha, which signifies a liberation of the senses and a release for the free flow of prana, or energy. This treatment has been customised to work on different levels of the human body and consciousness to create a sense of overall physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Ananda Moksha is a full-body massage which uses traditional Ayurvedic therapeutic techniques practised for thousands of years in India. It begins with a traditional oil application using long strokes across the entire body, followed by the release of pressure points, thereby stimulating the musculoskeletal system and leaving you with increased energy and a heightened sense of vitality. This immediately eliminates sluggishness and simultaneously helps to ease discomfort, blockages, aches, and pain. The therapy continues with slow release along the spine, followed by abdominal circulation, and ends with relaxation, toning, and easing of muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, head, and scalp. The therapy works on the physical system, but its effects go deep into the recesses of the mind and emotions. The result is a feeling of complete rest, repair, and rejuvenation. To reserve your place at the 'Holistic Healing for Balancing Energies' retreat, please contact The Nautilus at [email protected]. High-resolution photos can be downloaded here. About the company: Located in the Baa Atoll – a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve – and surrounded by the natural beauty of Hanifaru Bay, The Nautilus is an ultra-luxe bohemian hideaway in the Maldives, boasting just 26 beach and ocean houses and residences. The private island resort provides guests with the freedom to create the holiday they desire. Each house and residence benefits from a full butler service with a dedicated House Master, taking bespoke luxury to a new level and catering to each guest's individual needs in creating a programme of unique experiences. A huge selection of activities for all ages ranges from bespoke culinary adventures to underwater adventures and private yacht cruises. 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The Nautilus Maldives was named by Condé Nast Traveler's 2022 Readers' Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean and has also been recognised by TripAdvisor as one of the top 10% of hotels worldwide in the 2023 Travelers' Choice awards. The Nautilus Retreat was listed among the Maldives' Most Outrageous villas by Travel+Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024. Most recently, The Nautilus Maldives was recognised among the top 5 Resorts in the Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveler's 2024 Readers' Choice Awards. Contact Info: Name: The Nautilus Maldives Email: Send Email Organization: The Nautilus Maldives Phone: +960 730 9802
Forbes
01-04-2025
- Forbes
Hungry Ghosts Are Busting Government—How Leaders Can Be Ghostbusters
From the Hungry Ghosts Scroll at the Kyoto National Museum. The scroll depicts the realm of the ... More hungry ghosts, with this section showing Ananda, nephew and disciple of Shakyamuni Buddha, as a ghostbuster. Hungry ghosts, as described in Buddhist texts, occupy the second lowest of six realms of human experience, right above the rage of hell, and well below the consciousness of a healthy human being, much less the bliss of heaven. Hungry ghosts are consumed with greed, often depicted as sorrowful, teardrop figures with tiny, little mouths and great, big bellies that can never get enough food. The U.S. government is being busted by a couple of men who, for whatever other strengths they may have, are functioning as hungry ghosts. President Trump and Elon Musk are demonstrating an insatiable greed for power and its proxy, money. Both men show us that when greed goes unsatisfied or gets challenged, it lashes out in even more dangerous or outlandish ways. Both men vividly demonstrate that greed does not satisfy itself but only fuels more greed. Both show us that hungry ghosts drag those around them down to being hungry ghosts as well who can be held in check by the promise of more power and wealth or the fear of losing it. While some of us are accustomed to thinking of heaven and hell as regards an afterlife, their use in the Buddhism also applies to our life right now. They represent the peak and pit of human experience and, like six floors of a building, we're capable of riding an elevator up and down to any of them. So, anyone can descend to the level of being a hungry ghost and, because greed feeds more greed, it can be hard to escape from that realm. Unlike in the comedy classic, Ghostbusters, there's no magic energy device for busting the hungry ghost that can surface in us. But there is a key word that leaders do well to follow to bust the grip of being a hungry ghost, free up hungry ghosts around them and move to action to stem the damage from those who are still acting as hungry ghosts. That ghostbusting word is 'enough.' The first sense of 'enough' that breaks the grip of greed is knowing what enough is. As humans, we come with a set of needs. Those needs have been characterized by Maslow, McClelland and others to include physical needs such as food and safety, social-emotional needs like love and belonging, and psychological needs like power, achievement and self-actualization. Getting our needs met to some level of sufficiency motivates our actions. If our needs are expressed in a healthy way, we know what enough is. To use food as an example, if we have a healthy relationship with food, we know when we've eaten enough. Natural, healthy needs have natural, healthy fill lines. But the fact is, there are many ways our need system can get messed up and fill lines can fail us. One way this happens was researched by psychologist Arthur Janov to understand the roots of neurosis. He found that if infants and young children, who are dependent on others to get their needs met, go through extended periods of deprivation—lacking food, love, safety, whatever—they are prone to seal off that pain and substitute another need for it. So, for example, if a child doesn't feel loved enough, they may substitute getting attention as a form of personal power and act out. Janov's key finding was that, while real needs have natural fill lines, substitute needs do not because they were never what was really needed. The result is neurotic behavior—a hungry ghost—where there's never enough. Far from being rare, a never-enough mindset is often promoted or glamorized in leaders, as in never enough ambition, achievement, power, wealth, growth, or in the words of Frederick Seidel, 'Too much is almost enough.' The problem is that when we go past healthy fill lines, unintended consequences build up, largely outside of conscious awareness. Just as the never-enough growth of cancer destroys the ecology of the body, so unbounded greed destroys the ecology of relationships, societies, governments and even the earth. I first heard this antidote to greed from one of my Zen teachers, Tanouye Roshi. He was referring, of course, to meeting all needs just enough and not just food. Looking at my own needs and how they were expressed in my life and leadership, I could see that I had a healthy relationship with most of them, but an outsized need for control and achievement. I was always trying to fix things and felt that no matter what I did, I was never achieving enough. In many ways, life rewarded me for this drive, but as a leader I could also see where it was holding me back. I was trying to control more than was controllable and doing too much myself rather than developing others. I also saw where my leadership was more about meeting my own hungry-ghost needs than simply being of service. The beauty and freedom of seeing that a fill line is missing and a need is off scale is that we can start to see through it. It's like having a car where we know that the gas gauge is broken. We learn not to trust the gauge and adjust around it or see beyond it. Being able to see beyond our needs and serve the situation is a crucial flip in Zen Leadership from 'It's all about me' to 'I'm all about it.' It orients us toward serving others or serving the situation and busts us out of the realm of being a hungry ghost. If we sense that one or more of our needs has no fill line, it's a good bet that it pulls our decisions and behaviors toward serving itself. We might ask ourselves: How do I know that I don't already have enough wealth, power, achievement, fill-in-the-blank? If the truth is we don't know or we feel there's never enough, it's most likely a substitute need and the 'gas gauge' is broken. To break the grip of a need that makes everything about itself and make this flip toward greater service, questions we might ask ourselves in facing an important decision or situation are: Questions like these help us see through our own hungry ghost, attain a more neutral, bird's-eye perspective on the situation and orient us toward adding value. This flip makes leadership expansive, purposeful and in service of something greater, which is also a human need, often called spiritual or self-transcending. Just as never-enough-ness can be glamorized for leaders, it can be cherished in the competitive world of business and politics and richly rewarded from the stock market to the ballot box. Yet greed not only begets more greed in ourselves but infects those around us. It also throws systems wildly out of balance, as unintended consequences pile up until something breaks. So, while greed can pay off in the short term, longer term it feeds a boom-bust cycle, which is how complex systems of competing forces—i.e., polarities or paradoxes—manage themselves when not managed wisely. Since Barry Johnson's work nearly 30 years ago, leaders have been skilled in the art of managing paradox by knowing what enough is, both what's enough of a good thing and enough sign of trouble that it's wise to change course. For example, a classic paradox in organizational life is between money and people, because, of course, an organization needs both to be healthy. Focusing purely on money can lead to disengagement and burnout, especially if people perceive leaders as lining their own pockets while asking others to sacrifice—i.e., the hungry ghost at work. On the other hand, focusing only on employee health and development could cost more than the company can afford. Obviously, there's a sweet spot between these extremes based on knowing what's enough money, what's enough on the people side, and what's enough of a warning sign that either side is sinking into danger. As leaders mature, knowing what enough is enables them to bust their own hungry ghosts and makes them fit to lead complex systems and organizations. Moreover, only leaders who have made the flip from 'It's all about me' to 'I'm all about it' can authentically ask others to do the same. A final sense of 'enough' brings us full circle to our political situation in the U.S. Most of us have full-enough lives with plenty to do without getting involved in politics. But at what point in watching the work of greed and vengeance do we say 'enough?' At what point have we seen enough slide toward authoritarianism and disrespect of human beings? What do we take as the warning sign that moves us to do something: contact our people in Congress, work with our companies to take a stand, build coalitions, contribute funds, protect the vulnerable, join a protest, organize our community, or engage in some form of nonviolent resistance that is true to us? Many have already reached the point of enough and are bravely doing what they can to bust the ghosts of greed. According to social scientist, Erica Chenoweth, nonviolent resistance is historically far more successful than its violent cousin and a surprisingly small percentage of the population is sufficient to reach a tipping point for change. Her research shows only 3.5% or, in terms of the U.S. population, about 12 million ghostbusters is enough.
