Riverside Praxis Hub

A space for deep practice, collective inquiry, and transformative living in the heart of Bergerac.

Riverside Praxis Hub

Cultivating a Second Renaissance of presence, community, and meaningful action.

Welcome to the Bergerac Riverside Praxis Hub, a greenhouse for the Second Renaissance; growing embodied presence, relational depth, and meaningful action in the face of the metacrisis. Nestled in a lovingly restored French manor on the banks of the Dordogne, this hub is one node in the Life Itself global network, surrounded by gentle communal gardens.

Here we experiment with new ways of living and being, cultivating a conscious community that bridges the intentional and the monastic in a secular frame. Through self-work, creative practice, and spiritual exploration, we nurture a paradigm that is more connected, embodied, and expansive.

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What Makes Riverside Unique

Riverside is where practice becomes life itself.

Riverside Praxis Hub is a living laboratory where daily rhythms and deep inquiry merge. More than a retreat, it is an immersive residency rooted in embodied practice, shared sensemaking, and genuine community.

Through collective reflection, somatic and creative practices, and the simple rituals of shared living, learning is grounded in lived experience. Intimate cohorts cook, create, and care together, weaving responsibility with transformation.

Riverside invites you to integrate community and practice, collective and private, in the flow of everyday life.

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Residencies in Practice

Living, learning, and becoming together.

Our residencies in Bergerac invite you into a conscious community where personal inquiry and daily life weave with collective practice. Shared rituals, cooking, cleaning, sitting, and connecting become activations of presence.

With monthly costs ranging from 350-850 euros plus a daily food contribution, Riverside welcomes system-thinkers, poets, eco-dharmists, peace makers, and all who are ready to dance with complexity.

Apply online to join this living experiment in practice, creativity, and community near Plum Village monastery.

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Testimonials from our Residents

Our residents share their experience of the Life Itself Riverside Praxis Hub.

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Upcoming Events & Residencies

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Explore the Life Itself Riverside Praxis Hub

A monastery for living, learning, and belonging.

Created in 2020, this space was developed by Valerie Duvauchelle and Liam Kavanagh as a metamodern secular monastery to explore post-secular praxis.

Located steps from the river and a serene park, it comprises three small buildings including an old French palazzo with a distinctive atmosphere for deep exploration.

Rooms, Amenities & Costs

There are 12 rooms available for praxis residencies: 6 single or couple rooms and 6 potentially shared. Capacity is 15 people during praxis residencies and 21 during intense residencies.

Room 1 - Presence (premium)

Main house 2nd floor, balcony with garden view. Double bed. Private bathroom and toilets.

Room 2 - Integrity (premium)

Main house 1st floor, with private bathroom. Double bed.

Room 3 - Lightness (premium)

Main house 2nd floor. Double bed. Common bathroom on 2nd floor.

Room 4 - Joy

Main house 1st floor, garden view. Double bed. Shared bathroom on 2nd floor.

Room 5 - Contemplation (single or shared)

Main house 1st floor. Two single beds. Shared bathroom on 2nd floor.

Room 6 - Authenticity (single or shared)

Main house 2nd floor. Shared bathroom on 2nd floor.

Room 7 - Vulnerability (single or shared)

Main house 3rd floor. Two single beds. Shared bathroom on 2nd floor.

Room 8 - Enthusiasm (shared room with dorm space)

Main house attic space. Double bed. Shared attic dorm space and shared bathroom on 2nd floor.

Room 9 - Energy

Saint Michel house, 1st floor. One double + one single bed. Shared bathroom with Essence room.

Room 10 - Essence

Saint-Michel house, 1st floor. Two single beds. Shared bathroom with Energy room.

Room 11 - Lightness (premium)

Two small rooms with private bathroom and garden view; one private floor in Saint Michel house.

Room 12 - Inspiration (premium)

Garden house, 1st floor. Double bed and private bathroom on ground floor.

How to Reach Us

Location information and directions.

About Bergerac

Bergerac is a charming river town where markets, vineyards, and seasonal festivals enrich local life.

The Land & Town: Medieval streets, open markets, friendly locals, and walkable countryside.

Sustainability: Local growers, eco-conscious partners, and fresh seasonal fare.

Connections: 90 minutes from Bordeaux and Cahors, and close to other Life Itself sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior community-living experience?

No, but openness to experimentation and relational depth is encouraged.

What’s the cost and is financial support available?

Sliding-scale fees help cover food, lodging, and programs. Support and payment options are offered.

Can I attend partially?

Yes, orientation weeks are possible; some residencies require full-term commitment.

What’s included?

Meals (vegetarian/organic), lodging, access to shared amenities, and support throughout.

What’s the code of conduct?

Respect, care, consent, and shared responsibility are foundational.

Is the facility accessible?

The building is partially accessible; accommodations can be discussed during application.

Riverside Praxis Hub