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Ever dreamed of Aro Ha arriving quietly in your neighborhood - with the same depth, presence, and intention, and a mat waiting just for you?
We created Rise Renewed as a way to bring the essence of Aro Ha beyond our alpine sanctuary. Over the years, thousands have made the journey to New Zealand’s Southern Alps. And time after time, we’ve heard the same question: “When will you come to us?”
With so much of the Aro Ha community based overseas, Rise Renewed was born as a way to reconnect - to offer alumni a top-up of the Aro Ha experience, and to introduce others to what we do in a more accessible format.
We initially planned to open the workshop to the public, but after sending just one newsletter, tickets sold out in under 12 hours. The response was clear - there’s a strong appetite for meaningful, in-person experiences that are short, intentional, and real.
For our first Rise Renewed event, we gathered at dawn at a sea-facing space in Sydney. The 2-hour workshop, led by Anna and myself, blends yoga, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and guided connection. It’s designed to bring people into their bodies and into community - all before the day begins.
By 6:30am, mats were filled, breath deepened, and the room settled into stillness. What followed was a quiet, powerful morning. Movement softened the body. The IFS segment offered space for reflection and sharing. In the middle of the city, in the middle of the week, people showed up - fully present and willing to connect.
There were moments of laughter, moments of stillness, and a noticeable shift in the room. By the end, many were headed straight to work - grounded, open, and perhaps carrying something subtle but meaningful.
What’s Next?
Sydney was just the beginning. With such a strong response and meaningful feedback, Rise Renewed is becoming a roadshow - a way for Aro Ha to meet our wider community where they are.
If you feel inspired to host a Rise Renewed gathering - or know a space that might be the perfect container - we’d love to hear from you.
Each event is guided by the same intention that defines our work in New Zealand: to create spaces that restore clarity, foster connection, and support sustainable wellbeing.
Thank you, Sydney, for rising with us. We can’t wait to see where this road leads.
In health,
Damian
