Santi was born in Laos, but has been living in France since the age of 3. At the age of 11 he became a Buddhist monk for the first time, returning each year to his teacher during the summer holidays. He has had an in depth training in Buddhist psychology, the teachings of the Buddha and the practice. He has studied for three years with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh where he met his future wife Sandra. After they had both left the monastery they met and started a relationship in Ireland. However the call of living a peaceful life in the country side was too big to be ignored and they moved back to France.
With the help of family they are now living on a 5 hectare farm with two houses and 6 safari tents which is called Simply Canvas. They receive guests, facilitate small retreats, workshops and courses in various subjects and are supported by volunteers for both permaculture projects as well as helping in other area.
The focus towards permaculture has been a natural course in life. Sandra & Santi are both interested in offering a positive contribution to people, animals and nature. Permaculture fits in well, plus there is a 4 hectare field belonging to the property with plenty of space to experiment. Since there are quite an amount of visitors on a yearly basis Sandra and Santi have started to set up a permaculture site with many different demonstration areas to share this with the guests. So far you will find:
aquaponics
apiculture with a glass demonstration hive
hugel culture
small food forest
Herbal tea garden
Annual vegetable garden
There are big plans for winter-spring 2013 where swales, a big kitchen garden, a pond and hugel culture will be added.
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