2–7 October, 2026
“When a person realizes they have been deeply heard, their eyes moisten. I think in some real sense, they are weeping for joy. It is as though they were saying, ‘Thank God, somebody heard me. Someone knows what it’s like to be me.’” — Carl R. Rogers (pronouns modified)
This 6-day retreat is designed to support greater self-awareness and help you express yourself with authenticity in ways that can truly be received by others. Through guided practice, you will explore empathy languages that offer new ways of listening to both others and yourself. The retreat also invites you to slow down during tense moments, creating more space for flexibility in your thoughts and more choice in your actions.
As conflicts are approached with greater awareness, they can be transformed into deeper understanding, connection, and positive change. The work also supports participants in standing their ground, setting boundaries, and asserting themselves without shrinking. These practices can be deeply transformative in daily life, relationships, and work in the world.
Conscious Communication is rooted in the Indian principles of ahimsa (nonviolence) and anekāntavāda (not-one-sidedness), while also integrating contemporary perspectives on inner parts, trauma, power and privilege, systems, and more. Inspired by Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication (NVC), it goes beyond that framework in meaningful ways, offering more options for empathy and self-assertion, as well as greater attention to the energy we bring, not only the words we speak. Like NVC, it shares the vision of a world that works for all.
This retreat begins at 9:00 am on Friday, October 2nd, and ends at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026. Full attendance is required to protect the integrity of the group process.
The emphasis will be on practice rather than theory. Activities will include partner exercises, small-group work, and large-group sessions. The retreat will be conducted in English, though participants are welcome to speak other languages during exercises.
This workshop is open to anyone aged 18 and above. Diversity is welcome, and the space is intended to be inclusive.
The retreat is offered by dana/donation. Accommodation and meals are charged at actual cost, and a contribution of INR 250 is requested to cover material expenses.
Roy Jacob (he/him) is a facilitator, trainer, and conflict mediator, as well as the founder of the Conscious Communication Academy. He grew up in the U.S. and spent more than 20 years working as a software engineer before following his calling to Kerala, where his family is from. In India, he practices permaculture on a farm and collaborates with non-profit organizations, companies, and individuals seeking transformation. He also leads workshops and retreats, including Yes! Jams, Authentic Relating Games, and other programs, especially for young adults. At the heart of his work is a belief in the transformative power of slowing down.
Please note: Attendance in all sessions is mandatory.
By donation | Stay and meals at actuals
Buddha Pada Center
12th mile, Buddha Pada centre, Relli river road, Panchayat, Deolo, Sindibong Khasmahal, Kalimpong, West Bengal 734301, India
Kalimpong
Price
On request
Please contact the organizer directly for pricing information
Fri, Oct 2 – Wed, Oct 7