Dignity and Practice Charter
A binding human framework for how we practise, relate to one another, and allow each person to unfold.
Our Ethos: Equal Dignity
Our starting point is a simple conviction: that every person has the same inherent worth. No one is superior or inferior. For us, equal dignity is not just a slogan; it's a way of interacting with others. We believe in meeting each person at eye level, with curiosity rather than judgement, and with clear boundaries that are also kind. In practice, this means that leadership is stewardship, not status; guidance serves the group and every voice is valued.
We honour the human tempo. Depth grows at the pace of breath, not at the speed of performance. Before martial arts became a sport, they were a way of returning to the present moment: standing, breathing, sensing and choosing. We keep that root alive. Rather than pushing through resistance, we listen. Rather than forcing outcomes, we trust in the timing. This is how insight becomes embodied and sustainable.
Equal dignity requires clear consent and kind boundaries. Every exercise is an invitation, and 'no' and 'not yet' are honoured. Being clear is not the same as being cold; it is about caring. When people can choose at their own pace, their nervous system remains open to learning and their potential can unfold without the pressure to perform.
Community is not just a backdrop; it is an integral part of the process. We sit in a circle to bear witness, not to solve problems. We speak to people, not about them. Feedback is an invitation, not a judgement of someone's worth. When harm happens, we practice repair. We pause. We name what occurred. We listen. We look for a next step that restores dignity and safety. This is especially important when the harm happens in human spaces.
We use plain, human language. There are no esoteric promises or spiritual bypasses. Just simple tools, honest practice and shared ground that enables depth. We don't care about dramatic experiences; we care about the quiet re-orientation you can take home: a steadier presence, kinder boundaries and decisions made with less pressure and more trust.
What we protect with this ethos
- is the freedom to choose (consent and non-contact practice).
- The freedom to be honest (confidentiality, no performance).
- The precision to stay safe (clear boundaries, sober sessions).
- The opportunity to grow (inclusion, access and repair).
- The dignity of each person (eye-level interaction, no shaming or discrimination).
This is why the Charter exists: not to police behaviour, but to safeguard the conditions in which people can meet themselves and each other, and in which the work can quietly do good.
This Charter is a condition of participation.
It applies to everyone — participants and facilitators.
How this lives in practice
- Confidentiality: stories are kept confidential.
- Non-contact, invitation-only practice: you set the pace.
- Respect and inclusion: feedback is an invitation, not a verdict.
- Phones and photos: presence first; images only with permission.
- Sober sessions: clarity and care for the group.
- Access and needs: we adapt where possible.
- Health and privacy: minimal data, handled with consent.
- When harm happens, we restore dignity and safety.
Confidentiality & Story Ownership
Share your own experience outside the retreat, but never share details that could identify someone else. We don't record circles and photos are never taken during vulnerable moments. If you're unsure, ask first.
Why does this matter?
Deep work needs shelter. Confidentiality removes the pressure to manage how you appear and allows you to focus on the present moment.
Non-Contact, Invitation-Based Practice
All exercises are non-contact and invitation-only. You can always choose from three options: yes, no, or not yet, without providing an explanation.
Why does this matter?
Consent is not a tick-box exercise; it is a muscle of self-trust. Practising at your own pace keeps your nervous system open to learning and enables sustainable change, rather than just performing.
Respect, Inclusion & Equal Dignity in Action
We talk to each other, not about each other. Feedback names, observes and invites; it is never a verdict on someone’s worth. There is no place for any kind of harassment or discrimination.
Why does this matter?
Transformation is relational. Where respect is genuine, people can experiment without fear and the circle becomes a supportive mirror, rather than a judgemental one.
Phones, Recording & Photos
Devices must be silent during sessions and recording or filming is not permitted.
We may take a few documentary photos outside of vulnerable moments, but only after asking. We will never publish images that could identify you without your explicit permission. You can opt out at any time.
Why does this matter?
Attention is finite. When cameras are off and consent is given, a deeper presence is established — and what matters most becomes visible from the inside.
Sober Sessions
Arrive to all sessions sober; do not consume alcohol or other mind-altering substances during retreat hours. If you take prescribed medication, stick to your plan.
Why does this matter?
Clarity is kindness. A sober space ensures reliable perception and keeps the group safe enough to delve deep.
Access & Needs
Please tell us what would help, such as seating, pacing, breaks, sensory load and language speed. We will adapt where possible.
Why does this matter?
Inclusion is dignity in practice. When needs are identified, the environment can be adapted to enable full participation by all.
Health, Data & Privacy
Please share any relevant information regarding allergies, intolerances, injuries or other considerations so that we can plan accordingly. We only collect what is necessary and handle it confidentially. Any health or dietary details are processed with your explicit consent and deleted after the retreat, unless legal retention applies.
Please note that this retreat is not a substitute for medical or psychological therapy.
Why does this matter?
Care needs boundaries. Minimising data, obtaining clear consent and deleting information promptly protects privacy while enabling us to prepare effectively.
Environment & Setting
Portugal (ocean and heat). We plan for the cooler hours of the day and take shade and water breaks. Only swim where there are lifeguards; if you encounter a rip current, don't fight it — swim parallel to the shore and signal for help.
Heidelberg (our dojang). A light-filled room shaped by years of practice — quiet, clear and close to daily life.
Why does this matter?
Place teaches pace. Nature invites depth through spaciousness, while the city invites depth through integration. We honour both.
Repair & Accountability
If harm occurs, we pause, acknowledge what has happened, listen to each other, and agree on the next steps to restore dignity and safety. If necessary, we may ask someone to step back in order to protect the group.
Why does this matter?
Communities are made up of people. Repairing mistakes builds trust — not by hiding them, but by addressing them properly.
Communication (Signal)
Install Signal and join the group at least seven days before the retreat begins. We use Signal for logistics, updates and safety check-ins (all of which are end-to-end encrypted). You can leave the group after the event.
Why does this matter?
Having one private channel keeps information clear, calm and in one place.
Contact for concerns
If something doesn't feel right, please speak to Björn or Katrin. You will receive their contact details in your welcome email. Asking early on shows that you care — about yourself and the group.
