Lagos’ new Integrative Health Centre blends clinical care, mindful movement, and heart-led community action.
Though only four months old, In Harmony Integrative Health Centre has quickly become established as a space for healing, learning, and growth in the Western Algarve. Locals and visitors alike appreciate In Harmony’s innovative approach to integrative, holistic healthcare, and value their dedication to quality and integrity. However, another thing entirely has resonated with many of their patrons more recently: their deep commitment to building a compassionate community.
This ethos came to life in a flurry of kindness and puppy-hugs on Sunday, July 6, when the centre launched two charity events: first, a celebration of the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday to raise awareness for Tibet, and second, a playful push to fundraise for local animals in need.
“In Harmony exists not only to provide clinical therapies, classes, and workshops,” says co-founder Amanda Dawes, “but also to hold space for compassion, connection, and community. These events are a way for us to embody our values and to support a community that has already been so supportive to us”.
Compassionate Rising World Tour 2025
The afternoon of 6 July began with a gentle, contemplative gathering to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday. This event was one of many to take place as part of the Compassionate Rising World Tour, a global campaign to honour the Dalai Lama’s life and efforts, while inspiring acts of compassion, spotlighting Tibet’s enduring struggle for freedom, and uniting global communities around the Dalai Lama’s message of peace and resilience. In Harmony was honoured to be chosen to host this session in the Algarve.
Intentionally intimate, co-facilitator Christal Smith Carpenter (new Lagos resident and long-standing support of Tibet), opened the event with information about Tibet and the upcoming designation of the Dalai Lama’s successor. Her words were both solemn and uplifting. Then, five members of the local community read aloud selected teachings of the Dalai Lama; his compassion-fuelled words echoed the universal need for peace, understanding, and acceptance.
A group meditation followed the readings, led with great sensitivity by Portuguese local Sara Batista and accompanied by renowned Dutch harpist (and local resident) Danielle Riegel, whose soulful harp brought an otherworldly touch to an already reverent atmosphere.
Guests then contributed to a communal art project: the creation of prayer flags inscribed with personal messages of hope, love, and compassion. The simple words of 8-year old Elliot were particularly poignant: “By all means, be kind”. These flags now hang quietly in the window at In Harmony, reminding us how lucky we are that our diverse community has the freedom to connect in compassion, without fear of prosecution.
Puppy Yoga in Support of Cadela Carlota
That same afternoon, compassion took on a fluffier form as In Harmony hosted its first Puppy Yoga session. Local yoga teacher Nadine Faitas led a restorative Yin Yoga class while six adorable puppies roamed the space, spreading delight with tail-wags, hand licks, and cuddles to the sixteen participants who gathered for this sold-out session. The energy was equal parts zen and laughter; it was almost impossible to believe that mere months earlier, these six puppies had been found in a bin, tied in a sack.
Puppy Yoga was held in collaboration with Cadela Carlota, a local animal shelter doing tireless work to protect and rehome cats and dogs across the Algarve. Currently, the shelter houses over 80 dogs and 60 cats- all of whom are in desperate need of a forever home. The event was hugely successful, with €350 raised (and two huge bags of food and supplies), and many people becoming aware of the critical work Cardela Carlota does every day.
If you can help, further donations and foster homes are both critically needed.
In Harmony believes that good healthcare is inseparable from compassion, and invites you to come see what it is all about- you can even bring your puppy! To explore our classes, therapies, and upcoming events, visit www.inharmonycentre.com or follow @inharmonycentre on Instagram.
