The Essence Conscious Community - Global Ecovillage Network

We are a conscious community—united in a life of connection, awareness and simplicity.
Through daily meditation and conscious movement practices, we deepen our self-awareness and connection with ourselves. We support each other through daily activities, reflections, and challenges. Together we inquire into the nature of the mind to remember the root cause of our suffering and pain. We create a space where we can be vulnerable and authentic. By sharing our struggles and reactions openly and honestly, we bring clarity to doubts and find peace with who we are and each moment as it is.

We are grounded in slow living, sharing plant-based meals, and living close to nature and to ourselves. Life here is about being rather than doing. Together, we’ve cultivated a sanctuary where you can stay present, be conscious, and build resilience.

We are five members plus a one-year old who are currently based in Obidos, Portugal, where we focus on building our inner foundation and strengthening our connection through shared living and daily practice.

We host life-awareness retreats and welcome those interested in joining our conscious community. Our retreats and daily community life are one and the same. We live in retreat as a way of life. Whether or not guests are present, our schedule remains the same—rooted in awareness, conscious slow living, and simplicity. This means you’re entering a space that doesn’t just talk about presence—it lives and breathes it.Each day is devoted to practice, rest, and connection. During break times, we also engage in our conscious community projects.
We invite you to be part of our community—whether for a short stay or a longer journey. You’ll be supported to go deeply within, free from unnecessary distractions.
Here, we reflect. We remind. We simply are.
As we grow together, we envision settling on a piece of land in the coming years—a space to nurture a conscious way of life for generations to come, and stay awake.

Membership & Visitors

Current members: 5
Open to new members
Open to visitors

How to Become a Member
Joining our community is a commitment to a way of life, not just a temporary stay. We are building something long-term, creating a space not only for ourselves but for future generations.

What’s Expected:
100% vegan lifestyle
No drugs, smoking, or alcohol
Participate in all daily practices and community events
Take initiative and contribute your energy

The Process:
1.⁠ ⁠Start with a trial period – Join us for two weeks or one month.
2.⁠ ⁠If you continue – After your trial, the next step is committing to three more months.
3.⁠ ⁠Long-term commitment – After three months, you commit to a total of one year (so if you did one month + three months, you'd stay another eight months).

Financial Contribution:
First year: €1000 per month

After one year: No financial contribution required

Financial difficulties? A scholarship program may be available, depending on your level of investment and involvement in the community.

This is about being part of something real and lasting. If this speaks to you, we welcome you to take the first step.