Understand.
Psychological and philosophical perspectives on human needs, relationships and society.
01 / VISION
Where the boundaries
of psychology are redefined.
At Portal, psychological insights meet holistic practice. We thoughtfully and openly bring empirically studied approaches together with philosophical perspectives and Eastern traditions. Our focus is on broadening horizons and experiencing the psyche from different points of view. The question of what makes a fulfilling and happy life is always at the heart of our work.
Experience.
Meditation, mindful movement, relationship practices, breathwork (conscious breathing exercises) and creative expression open new ways of relating to our own awareness.
Integrate.
Conversation and self-reflection help bring new insights into everyday life.
02 / OUR APPROACH
Our approach
to being human.
A healthy mind emerges from the interplay of the individual, relationships and society. That is why we work on all three levels.
The personal level.
Knowing yourself better means living more consciously. We create space to slow down, steer your own attention and listen to your body again.
Finding calm
Slowing down with meditation, mindfulness, yoga and relaxation, directing your attention deliberately and experiencing moments of flow.
Understanding yourself
Noticing feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations as a whole, questioning beliefs and getting to know your personality and its strengths, for example through journaling.
Equanimity and self-regulation
Handling stress, building resilience and trusting your body awareness and intuition more.
Meaning, values and grounding
Clarifying your inner compass of values, practising gratitude and building sustaining routines, all the way to experiences of wholeness and connection.
The relationship level.
Relationships shape how we feel. In conversations and paired exercises we explore how encounters can be open, honest and kind.
Meeting mindfully
Relating with attention: in paired exercises and through authentic, open-minded ways of communicating.
Needs and boundaries
Clarifying what I need in close relationships, what is there and what is missing; questioning dependencies and setting clear boundaries.
Trust and vulnerability
Building trust, being able to let go and meeting your own vulnerability with confidence.
Resonance and compassion
Experiencing resonance rather than alienation and developing a kind attitude, for example with practices such as metta (a meditation of loving-kindness).
The societal level.
How we live also depends on how we live together. We ask what makes a good life today, beyond comparison, constant distraction and the pressure to optimise ourselves.
Values and orientation
Self-acceptance rather than self-optimisation: finding your place in society and making a meaningful contribution.
Digital self-determination
Shaping technology and attention consciously, with a healthy approach to social media and technology that serves people.
Community and participation
Belonging, mutual help and shared spaces: a sense of togetherness rather than constant competition.
Responsibility and quality of life
Shaping work and achievement in a healthy way, putting fulfilment before growth and valuing nature and the environment.
03 / RETREATS
Space for you.
Time for genuine connection.
A workshop gives a single theme a focused setting. A retreat allows more time: when you step out of your usual rhythm for a few days, you can settle in, find calm and observe what emerges. Much of it keeps resonating between sessions – on walks in nature, over shared meals or in periods of silence.
Psychological insights offer orientation; meditation, mindful movement, paired exercises and creative expression make them tangible. An idea becomes an experience of your own, one you can make sense of at your own pace.
A conversation, a new perspective, a moment of connection: any of these can spark something that continues to grow in everyday life. At Portal, we want to create a starting point for that.
WHAT SHAPES A RETREAT AT PORTAL
Step back.
A different place, a slower pace, fewer distractions. Nature and periods of silence make it easier to leave everyday life behind for a while and come back to yourself.
Explore together.
Different perspectives and practices to try, on your own, in pairs and as a group. Every exercise is an invitation; you decide how far you want to engage.
Carry it into daily life.
Reflection and conversation help you make sense of your experiences, guided by the question of what matters to you – and what you would like to carry into everyday life.
See upcoming retreats
We will publish dates, prices and registration details once they are confirmed.
04 / SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS
Seminars & workshops
We bring psychological reflection together with mindfulness and creative prompts. Our different areas of focus allow us to shape an experience around you and what matters to you.
Mindfulness
Notice your thoughts, feelings and needs more clearly, and relate to yourself with greater care.
Slowing down
Step back from daily life, clarify your priorities and reconnect with your own rhythm.
Creativity
Use writing and creative exercises to express what is on your mind and discover new perspectives.
GLIMPSES
Moments of connection.
Moment 1 of 4
05 / ABOUT US
Two people.
One shared vision.
Nico Lisowski, M. Sc.
Psychology · Music · Literature
Nico is a psychologist with a master’s degree from the University of Vienna, a musician and an aspiring author.
More about NicoEric Hagen, B. Sc.
Psychology · Art · Philosophy
Eric studied psychology and philosophy at the University of Vienna and is a certified mental trainer.
More about EricFrequently asked questions
Who are Portal’s offerings for? Do I need prior experience?
Our offerings are for adults, with or without prior experience. Whether meditation, yoga, breathwork (conscious breathing exercises) or psychology is new to you or has been part of your life for some time, you are welcome. We value clear explanations and thoughtful guidance.
Do I have to take part in every activity or share personal things?
No. All activities are voluntary. You can skip an exercise, take a break or spend time on your own. We encourage paired and group exchange; you decide what you want to share.
Is Portal a therapeutic service?
Our offerings are for education, self-exploration and personal development. They do not replace medical or psychotherapeutic care. If you are experiencing significant psychological distress, please contact us beforehand so we can discuss together whether the format feels right for you at this time. Please also tell us about physical limitations or specific needs; we will try to accommodate them and find suitable solutions.
STAY IN THE LOOP
The next Portal
is opening.
We’ll let you know about upcoming retreats and workshops.
Have a question? Write to us.