Exploring Belgium’s Hidden Gems for Mind, Body, and Spirit: Events, Wellness, and Conscious Living

Belgium may not always be the first country that comes to mind when you think of spiritual hotspots, but beneath the surface of medieval towns and rich chocolate, a thriving alternative scene is quietly flourishing. From tranquil forests steeped in ancient energy to modern wellness retreats and vibrant mind, body, spirit events, Belgium is becoming a nurturing space for seekers, healers, and conscious creators alike.

In this article, we explore some of the most inspiring locations and events for anyone on a journey of personal growth, inner transformation, or spiritual awakening. Whether you're a seasoned yogi, a curious explorer, or a wellness entrepreneur, Belgium offers a mix of tradition, nature, and modern-day soul work that blends seamlessly into everyday life.

The Rise of Spiritual and Wellness Culture in Belgium

Globally, the wellness economy has been steadily growing, now valued at over $4.5 trillion according to the Global Wellness Institute. But what’s more fascinating is how deeply integrated it’s becoming in local communities—not just in large urban hubs like Amsterdam or Berlin, but in places like Flanders, Wallonia, and even remote villages across Belgium.

Studies have shown that people increasingly seek experiences that bring balance to their mind, body, and spirit. A recent study in Frontiers in Psychology noted a strong correlation between regular wellness practices (like mindfulness and yoga) and improved emotional resilience and life satisfaction. Belgium's alternative community seems to be tapping into this need at just the right moment.

Conscious Retreats and Sacred Spaces

Let’s start with some of the most respected wellness and spiritual retreat spaces in the country. These aren't luxury spas with cucumber water; they are living, breathing sanctuaries rooted in authenticity and depth.

1. Ovenveld Retreat Center – Leuven

Tucked in the countryside near Leuven, Ovenveld is a haven for silence, yoga, and soul inquiry. The center hosts retreats that blend mindfulness, breathwork, tantra, and energy healing. The setting is pastoral and grounding—ideal for going within. They also offer seasonal gatherings and conscious movement workshops.

2. Waerbeke – Geraardsbergen

Waerbeke is more than just a retreat center—it's a full ecosystem of conscious living. With a focus on ecology, silence, and spirituality, it has become a meeting ground for visionaries, healers, and community facilitators. Their events often bridge science and spirituality, inspired by thinkers like Otto Scharmer and Joanna Macy.

3. Shanti Home – Brussels

An urban oasis nestled in Brussels, Shanti Home brings ancient and modern wellness practices to city dwellers. From sound journeys and cacao ceremonies to yoga nidra and trauma-informed healing, it’s a place for deep energetic reset in the heart of the capital.

Ecospiritual Communities and Wellness Farms

4. De Gaard – Limburg

De Gaard blends permaculture with spiritual exploration. It’s an off-grid eco-retreat space with community at its heart. Residents and guests engage in ancestral practices, land-based healing, and self-sufficiency workshops. Their seasonal events often draw people from across the EU seeking to reconnect with Earth-based wisdom.

5. La Ferme du Bois-le-Comte – Gaume

Connected to the Plum Village tradition of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, this beautiful organic farm offers silent retreats and mindfulness programs in a breathtaking natural setting. It’s ideal for those looking to deepen their meditation practice and embrace a simpler, more intentional way of life.

Festivals and Events for Conscious Living

Belgium also hosts an array of events celebrating alternative healing, spiritual awakening, and conscious culture. Here are a few that stand out for their community vibe and transformational impact.

6. Body & Soul Festival

Held during the warmer months, this wellness festival brings together yoga teachers, sound healers, artists, and sacred musicians. Expect workshops on emotional alchemy, ecstatic dance, and plant medicine integration. A must-visit for those seeking heart-led connection and high-frequency fun.

7. Mystic Fair (Various Cities)

The Mystic Fair travels through several Belgian towns, showcasing tarot readers, astrologers, herbalists, and metaphysical product makers. It’s an easy entry point for people newly exploring the mind, body, spirit world, while still offering depth for seasoned seekers.

8. Open Heart Festival – Flanders

This festival is designed around heart coherence and conscious relating. It offers everything from cacao rituals and tantra to conscious communication and breath ceremonies. It’s particularly loved for its safe, inclusive space for personal expression and intimacy work.

Nature as a Spiritual Ally

Belgium’s nature offers more than scenic views—it holds potent energetic spots where many report powerful spiritual insights and healing experiences. Some locations are believed to be ancient leyline intersections or sites of ritual from pre-Christian times.

9. Zoniënwoud / Forêt de Soignes – Brussels

One of Europe’s oldest beech forests, this UNESCO-protected site is often described as having a “cathedral-like” atmosphere. It’s ideal for walking meditations, forest bathing, or simply unplugging from digital noise. Studies have shown that 90 minutes in nature can reduce rumination and calm the brain’s default mode network.

10. Abbey of Orval – Gaume

This Trappist monastery has long been a site for contemplation. Beyond its beer brewing fame, the surrounding area exudes silence and mystery. Many report profound emotional shifts simply from spending a few hours in the monastery’s garden or walking trails.

Building a Conscious Life in Belgium

If you’re looking to go deeper or build a lifestyle around wellness and spiritual values, consider exploring Belgium’s growing intentional communities and co-living spaces. These grassroots efforts focus on cooperation, slow living, and shared purpose.

Whether you're attending a one-day workshop, looking to join a conscious festival, or seeking a space to detox from modern life, Belgium’s offerings are expanding. The energy here is gentle but deep, with a unique blend of Earthy realism and heartfelt openness.

Final Thoughts: Where Will You Begin?

From sacred beech forests to tantric festivals and eco-villages, Belgium’s spiritual and wellness scene is more alive than ever. Whether you're craving connection, healing, or just a pause from the noise, there’s something here waiting to meet you.

If you're curious where to begin, check out our full list of upcoming mind, body, spirit events or search for wellness gatherings near you. You can also explore more on our events page and subscribe for updates tailored to your interests.

Need inspiration on how nature, silence, and community affect human wellbeing? This TEDx talk by Johann Hari on connection and healing might change how you view mental health and spirituality forever.