Ojai Foundation :: Sanctuary

THE MISSION of the Sanctuary is to enliven and transform relationship through the art of deep listening and heartful expression.

Relationships - with ourselves, our loved ones, our communities, with all that we create, and with the natural world and the sacred - all arise out of our longings and the expressions of our very being. By attending to the integrity of our communications and actions in the world and by living the spirit of Council moment to moment, we open the way for deeper, more satisfying and more meaningful relationships in every dimension of our lives.

This mission is fulfilled by: (1) providing an educational sanctuary in a natural, rustic, village-like setting that encourages personal and community transformation - a living laboratory where individuals, families, groups and organizations can explore and practice Council in a nurturing environment; and by (2) supporting those who visit to carry the spirit of Council into their personal lives, work places and communities.

At the Sanctuary, we seek to honor the inseparability of learning and living, to heal the split between work in the world and spiritual practice, and to incorporate ancient and emerging wisdom in everyday life.

Nestled into 40-acres of semi-wilderness at the foot of the Los Padres Mountains, ninety minutes north of Los Angeles, we weave together equal parts sanctuary, school, eco-village and oasis. The Sanctuary provides a wide range of Council-based programs throughout the year for youth and adults interested in deepening their communication and relational skills. Programs include Council trainings for teachers and therapists, relationship intensives for couples, rites of passage for high school seniors, as well as seasonal retreats for individuals, families and groups.