Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.” – Rumi
We are thrilled to announce the Dervish in Progress (DIP) Retreat, taking place from 5th to 10th June 2025 at the serene Heartward Sanctuary in Siler City, North Carolina. This immersive retreat offers a unique opportunity to experience the transformative practice of whirling in a peaceful and natural environment, far from the noise and distractions of daily life.
Contrary to popular belief, the whirling associated with Sufism has been practiced in various forms across geographies for centuries. Dervish in Progress (DIP) reimagines this ancient tradition, offering a modern and inclusive approach that creates space for free movement, thought, and feeling. Whether you are new to whirling or have prior experience, DIP welcomes anyone over the age of 16 to embark on this journey of self-discovery.
This retreat is designed as a safe space built on trust and transparency. It invites participants to free their bodies and minds while exploring the physical, mental, and emotional dimensions of their being. Guided by the instructor, participants will delve deeply into the transformative practice of spinning and connect with their profound inner selves.
What to Expect
DIP is a multi-layered teaching centered on whirling as an active meditation, designed to make its principles accessible, practical, and deeply transformative. Throughout the retreat, you will explore:
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Daily Morning Walking: Gentle walks to ground yourself and set a focused tone for the day.
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DIP-UP: A multi-disciplinary warm-up technique to prepare the body and mind.
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Technical & Theoretical Lessons: To understand the mechanics, philosophy, and terminology of DIP.
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Whirling Sessions: First experiences and deepening practices to internalize what you’ve learned.
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Daily Feedback Circles: Opportunities to ask questions and reflect on your progress.
The retreat will also offer opportunities for personal reflection and group connection, allowing participants to integrate their experiences fully.
Important Participation Details
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Participation in all activities is essential, as these retreats are designed as group journeys. Punctuality and full engagement are crucial to achieving the retreat’s intended outcomes.
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If attending with relatives, please refrain from socializing with them during the retreat to maintain the group dynamic, which we deeply value.
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Essentials to bring include:
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The retreat will be video-recorded for archival purposes, but no footage will be shared digitally or in the press without participants’ explicit permission.
Please join us if you believe you can meet these conditions and are ready to embark on this transformative journey.
Retreat Location & Access
Location: Heartward Sanctuary, 2196 Tom Stevens Rd, Siler City, NC 27344
Access: The nearest airport is Raleigh-Durham International (RDU), about a 1-hour drive from Heartward Sanctuary. Participants can either rent a car or arrange a carpool or pick-up with the hosts.
Participation Fee
The participation fee is €360 (accommodation not included). (Please send us your payment confirmation so we can issue and email your invoice.)
Contact Us
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“Movement creates the environment for transformation, connecting body, mind, and soul.”
We warmly invite you to join us for this transformative retreat at Heartward Sanctuary. Together, let’s explore the depth of movement, connection, and self-discovery through the practice of whirling.
With love,
Dervish in Progress & Heartward Sanctuary Teams