JOIN OUR COMMUNITY
Work as meditation. Live in community. Grow through service in the Swedish forest.
WORK AS SERVICE
Volunteers form the backbone of Shambala Gatherings. Our program is rooted in the practice of “work as meditation and service”, where every task, from cooking to cleaning to gardening, becomes an opportunity for presence and growth.
We welcome people from all walks of life, ages, and backgrounds. You’ll live in community, practice yoga, share meals, and contribute to something meaningful. Minimum age is 22 years old, and we ask that volunteers bring abundant energy and an open heart.
Note: Our full-time program is best suited for those in a stable, energised phase of life. If you’re feeling vulnerable or exhausted, we recommend our part-time option or booking as a guest instead.
WHAT YOU RECEIVE
In exchange for your service, Shambala provides everything you need for a rich, nourishing stay.
Winter at Shambala is a season of closeness. All volunteers share cosy dorm rooms (2–4 people per room) with the rest of the team: warm, comfortable, and full of the kind of company that turns a season into some of the best months of your life. Many arrive as strangers and leave with friends for life.
Nourishing plant-based buffet meals three times a day, made with local and organic ingredients by our kitchen team. Tea served all day.
Minimum four yoga classes per week, plus access to select sessions during international retreats with visiting teachers.
Daily access to the wood-fired sauna and lake for swimming. The perfect way to end a day of service.
Long forest walks, talks around the bonfire, and slow evenings in our cosy café — the kind of conversations you don't want to end. A dedicated yoga sala for your own practice and shared community classes. Laughter, learning from each other, and plenty of creativity in the kitchen.
A space to practice presence through service, deepen your self-awareness, and form lifelong friendships in a supportive container.
low & HIGH SEASON 2027
Shambala offers different energies depending on the time of year. All seasons are beautiful, the right choice depends on your preference.
AVAILABLE ROLES
Full-time volunteers work 6 hours/day, 5 days a week.
Part-time is 2.5 hours/day, 6 days per week.
Learn from the head chef in an immersive kitchen internship. Private caravan accommodation included. Requires refundable deposit.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekSupport the day-to-day running of the retreat center alongside the manager. A hands-on role combining coordination, and light administration. Requires refundable deposit.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekWork alongside the chef and apprentice preparing nourishing plant-based meals. Fast-paced, creative, and deeply rewarding.
Team leader position overseeing cleanliness and beauty of all spaces. Requires refundable deposit and leadership experience.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekSplit role: teach authentic yoga classes to the community and support with hosuekeeping of our beautiful place. Emphasis on presence, creativity, and connection.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekMaintenance support role caring for the property through small repairs and upkeep. Flexible, self-managed tasks. Ideal for someone practical who enjoys independence and balancing work with nature and rest.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekCreative handyperson role supporting special projects around the property. Collaborate on beautifying spaces: from entrances to decks and outdoor structures. Ideal for someone practical, imaginative, and hands-on.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekCreate beautiful, homely spaces throughout the property. Plant care, decoration, and bringing warmth to every corner of Shambala.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekMaintain the cleanliness and beauty of shared spaces. Includes post-meal cleanup and general tidying of the property.
Full-time · 6 hrs/day, 5 days per weekYOUR INVESTMENT
The daily fee is an investment in your experience. Here’s exactly what each tier includes.
Leadership roles that assist the staff team (Kitchen Apprentice, Cleaning Coordinator, Management Assistant)
Refundable deposit required
“Please let us know if you have difficulties paying this fee, and we will do our best to support you. We want everyone to have the opportunity to experience Shambala.”
I found not only answers, but beautiful people that prove that another, more free and complete way of life is possible.
Applications for High Season 2026 are now open. Fill out the form and we’ll be in touch within a week.
Or write to us directly: team@shambalagatherings.com
