Embracing the Forest: Mindfulness and Sustainable Tourism in Italy's Beigua Park

Discover how a mindfulness walk in Italy's Beigua Park led by Richiamo del Bosco inspired young Europeans to explore sustainable tourism and cooperative entrepreneurship.

When the Forest Calls: A Journey into Mindfulness

Imagine walking through the lush greenery of Parco Naturale Regionale del Beigua, the largest natural park in Liguria, Italy. The air is fresh, the scent of earth and leaves fills your senses, and a gentle drizzle begins to fall, adding a refreshing touch to the experience. This was the setting for a transformative workshop led by Marco Bo, a member of Richiamo del Bosco, during the Rural Entrepreneurship for You(th) exchange program in July 2024.

The session was more than just a hike; it was an immersive mindfulness experience designed to connect participants deeply with nature and themselves. As the rain softly pattered on the canopy above, Marco guided the group to heighten their awareness, embracing the sensations and emotions that arose in this serene, albeit slightly wild, environment.

Richiamo del Bosco: A Model of Cooperative Sustainable Tourism

Beyond the mindfulness walk, Marco introduced participants to the innovative model of Richiamo del Bosco: https://richiamodelbosco.it/ . This network of freelance professionals in the Biella province collaborates to offer authentic, eco-friendly tourism experiences. Unlike traditional companies, they operate as a cooperative of freelancers, pooling their diverse skills in nature guiding, meditation, and mindfulness to create a holistic approach to tourism.

Their success over the past three to four years demonstrates the power of collaborative entrepreneurship. By sharing clients, jointly marketing their services, and maintaining a stable, high-quality offering, they have built a sustainable business that respects both the environment and the local community.

Lessons in Sustainable Entrepreneurship

This workshop provided invaluable insights for young entrepreneurs interested in sustainable tourism:

• Cooperation Over Competition: Building networks with like-minded professionals can lead to shared success and innovation.

• Flexibility and Freedom: Operating as freelancers within a cooperative allows for personal autonomy while benefiting from collective strength.

• Eco-Conscious Practices: Emphasizing mindfulness and nature immersion caters to the growing demand for sustainable and meaningful travel experiences.

Embracing the Wild: Challenges and Rewards

The experience was not without its challenges. The unexpected rain and encounters with local wildlife, like ticks, added an element of unpredictability. However, these moments underscored the importance of adaptability and respect for nature—crucial lessons for anyone considering a career in eco-tourism.

Could This Be Your Path?

If you are passionate about nature, mindfulness, and sustainable tourism, consider exploring cooperative models like Richiamo del Bosco: https://richiamodelbosco.it/. Embracing collaboration and eco-conscious practices could lead to a fulfilling career that not only benefits you but also the environment and your community.

Would you embark on a journey into sustainable tourism entrepreneurship?

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