Date: 3rd - 6th July 2025
Location: Volkshaus Perau, Burgenlandstraße 16a, 9500 Villach, Carinthia, Austria
"Whirling is not about losing oneself; it’s about finding a centre where the body, mind, and emotions align with a deeper truth. It’s where stillness and movement merge, allowing transformation to happen naturally."
– Ziya Azazi
A Transformative Experience Awaits
For the first time, Dervish in Progress (DIP) is bringing its renowned whirling retreat to the beautiful and serene town of Villach, Carinthia, Austria. This four-day immersive retreat, taking place from July 3rd to July 6th, 2025, is designed to welcome both beginners and advanced practitioners into a shared space of exploration, alignment, and transformation. In today’s fast-paced, multidimensional world, we often find ourselves navigating what can feel like an overwhelming reality—multi-temporal, multi-special, and multi-skilled. As we adapt to these complexities, it becomes crucial to regularly recalibrate our body, mind, and emotions. Whirling, as practiced in DIP, offers a profound pathway for this recalibration, serving as a vehicle for inner balance, alignment, and renewal. In 2025, DIP is expanding its global presence with a significantly increased number of events, driven by its mission to reach and impact more lives. This retreat is not merely an introduction to whirling but an opportunity to step into a deeper connection with oneself and others, supported by the transformative guidance of Ziya Azazi.
Why Whirling?
Neuroscience highlights the transformative power of rhythmic movement in enhancing neuroplasticity, regulating emotions, and fostering resilience. Whirling, in particular, combines these benefits with profound spiritual insights, creating a practice that nourishes both the mind and soul. DIP is dedicated to making whirling accessible to everyone, especially in this era of multi-dimensional living. By introducing regular practices of alignment and balance, individuals can better navigate the complexities of modern life, finding a stable centre amidst the chaos.
Structure of the Retreat
Day 1 (Thursday, July 3):
- For Beginners: New participants will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of whirling, referred to in DIP as the EQUATION, which emphasizes essential principles like balance, focus, and movement alignment. Beginners will also experience their first whirling session, guided with clarity and care.
- For Advanced Participants: Advanced DIP participants are welcome to join from the first day to immerse themselves in the retreat’s practices. However, they may also choose to arrive on Day 2 (Friday, July 4) if preferred.
Days 2–4 (July 4–6): From Friday onward, all participants—beginners and advanced practitioners alike—will come together to embark on a collective journey. Under the expert guidance of Ziya Azazi, participants will explore the theories and practices of DIP, delving into the vast and unknown dimensions of the spinning world. Daily Activities Include: - Whirling sessions designed to develop physical alignment, stamina, and presence. - Guided exercises to cultivate body awareness and inner balance. - Insights into the philosophy, mechanics, and spirituality of whirling. - Opportunities for quiet reflection and connection with Villach’s natural beauty.
Practical Information
Accommodation
Fees (VAT & accommodation not included):
- €380 – Regular participants
- €350 – DIP community members & members of Mind.Set Association
- €320 – DIP-TEP graduates & students
Payment Details:
- Reserve your spot with a non-refundable deposit of €100 filling the google form:
- Snacks and beverages (tea, coffee) will be provided throughout the retreat.
Contact Information
For questions or assistance, please contact:
Charly & Hubert: +43 676 4227717
or Anna Rita: +43 650 6467746
Ziya Azazi: A Visionary in Movement
Ziya Azazi is an internationally acclaimed performer and teacher, renowned for his innovative approach to whirling practices. Born in Antakya, Turkey, he brings over 20 years of experience in blending traditional and contemporary dance forms. Through extensive research, Ziya has developed Dervish in Progress (DIP), a modern interpretation of whirling that emphasizes individual transformation, alignment, and inner connection. Ziya’s work has been featured in prestigious festivals and events across more than 55 countries. His unique methods integrate the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of whirling, offering practitioners a profound journey into the vast unknown of their being.
Join Us
This retreat offers a rare opportunity to experience whirling as a tool for profound self-discovery and transformation. In the supportive space of the DIP community, guided by Ziya Azazi, you will explore movement, stillness, and the rich inner landscapes of your being. Whether you are new to whirling or an experienced practitioner, this retreat is an invitation to pause, recalibrate, and rediscover the power of connection—within yourself and with the vast unknown. Take the step to join us in Villach and immerse yourself in this transformative journey. Reserve your spot today and experience the balance, clarity, and joy that await!