about us
Hi there - we are Alison and Paul
We have lived in Casa Verde since moving to Portugal 5 years ago
We have been slowly regenerating this land and building living spaces
the last few years have been strange times for many of us
so it feels good to be able to welcome people at last
Hi I’m Paul. A multi instrumental musician, composer, writer and artist
I am self taught learning from a practice of deep listening and meditative exploration
I play unusual traditional instruments from all over but specialise in ethnic wind
as a wind player there is a very natural bridge
from inner breath work through creative pattern play to external expression
I’m always happy to share such explorations with visitors
whether they be musically experienced or not
I enjoy holding space with sound healing baths for those who prefer just to receive
There is also a recording studio set up at Casa Verde
Ali has had a rich and varied life
as a broadly experienced chef, baker and teacher
with a huge knowledge and passion for all things food related
as well as a research scientist, safari and tour guide/organiser and more
... but it is her ability to watch, listen and remember that shines most.
All these skills combine to make cooking for retreats one of her favourite activities
responding subtly to the changing needs of people in landscapes
following the ever shifting inner and outer seasons
allow her to skilfully nourish body and mind.
we are both long term meditation practitioners
with rich and varied experiences
always happy to discuss and offer practices
and to be available as a listening ear where required
there is a carefully chosen library of books in the house
available to inspire and assist with inner work
as well as miles and miles on country walks
where you are very unlikely to meet anybody
except some of the local wildlife