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Back to The Roots II (Bernkastel-Kues near Koblenz)

Camp code:

DE-SCI 11.41

Country:

Germany

Start Date:

16 Aug 2025

End Date:

31 Aug 2025

Topic:

11: Climate and sustainable lifestyle

Work Types:

Agriculture / Environment / Restoration, renovation

Number of volunteers:

12

International age:

18 - 99

National age:

16 - 99

Required Language:

English

Description: Step into the heart of the forest, where time slows down, and nature takes centre stage. At Friedmunt’s off-grid sanctuary, life unfolds in harmony with the land, free from modern constraints like electricity and water grids. This is a place where self-sufficiency and deep connection to nature become a way of life. By joining this unique experience, you’ll have the opportunity to work in the fields and learn the essentials of seed cultivation—a craft that Friedmunt has been perfecting for over 30 years. As an expert botanist, he knows the story behind every plant and is eager to share his wisdom. Beyond hands-on work, the study sessions offer a deeper dive into topics such as crop diversity, seed politics, Native American corn cultivation, and ancient agricultural knowledge.

Type of Work: At Friedmunt’s forest sanctuary, daily life is shaped by the rhythms of nature. Here, you'll engage in meaningful activities that reconnect you with the earth and its elements. Gardening – Care for plants and cultivate life while working directly with the soil. Feel the grounding energy of nature as you nurture growth with your own hands. Fetching Water – Collect fresh drinking water straight from the source, embracing the simplicity and purity of nature’s gifts. Making Fire – Learn the ancient art of fire-making, cook on an open stove, and gather around the campfire for warmth, stories, and connection. AgniHotra (Fire Ritual) – Every morning and evening, Friedmunt practices this sacred fire ritual, a meditation that enhances fertility and purifies the atmosphere.

Study Theme: Valuable knowledge about crop diversity, seed politics, Native American corn cultivation, forgotten wisdom of ancient cultures, and the connection to elemental beings.

Accommodation: You will sleep on a mattress in the barn. A composting toilet and a solar-powered shower are available, and only vegetarian food is provided.

Language: English.

Requirements: Adaptation to a simple lifestyle: motivation and willingness to embrace and endure life close to nature while engaging in physical work. Experience the simplicity of life without internet access. In Friedmunt's sanctuary, mobile phone use is not allowed (though you may use it outside the camp). Do not bring a rolling suitcase—bring a backpack, as you will walk for an hour through the forest.

Notes: INCOMING FEE for volunteers applying via partner organisations and contacts of SCI: https://sci-d.de/incomingfee. Connect with the earth and learn the importance of sustainable practices in gardening and seed preservation. Let your creativity flow! Feel free to bring an instrument if you have one. We have a guitar, a piano, a flute, and five drums available. Let yourself be surprised and inspired by nature!

Organization Description: This workcamp is organized by the German branch of Service Civil International (SCI). SCI Germany was founded in 1946 and is approved as a non-profit organisation. We are one of the oldest peace and volunteer organisations. SCI Germany aims to promote peace, non-violence, international solidarity, social justice, sustainable development and cross-cultural exchange through international voluntary work. We cooperate with a network of branches and partners in more than 90 countries. Every year, SCI Germany organizes about 50 international workcamps in Germany.