The first PHOS by Empiria Group concludes successfully in Paros

October 8, 2026 – Athens, Greece

The first PHOS (Presence Heals Our Senses), Empiria Group's new experiential platform, concluded successfully after taking place October 2–4 at Parīlio, a Member of Design Hotels, in Paros. The initiative was realised in partnership with Design Hotels and Travelgems, under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organisation.

For three days, PHOS created a space for a meaningful pause from the fast pace of everyday life. Inspired by ancient Greek wisdom and the traditions of the Cyclades, which continue to offer valuable lessons for contemporary life, it invited participants to return to presence, human contact, movement, creativity, and the joy of shared experience.

A new community

People from different walks of life came together in Paros and, through conversations, shared activities, and meals, formed connections that extended beyond the three days. The community dinners at Monastiri Restaurant and at Parīlio's Mr. E gave new acquaintances room to grow and deepened the sense of belonging.

 Body, breath, and presence

Sukkhadas placed breath at the centre as a means of focus, calm, and reconnection with oneself. Themistoklis Pavlis approached movement as a way of connecting with the body and the surroundings, from an introduction to movement to Aegean Fluidity Movement. Niki Smirni guided the intention setting, the connection rituals, and the gratitude circle that closed the experience, with presence and gratitude as constant points of reference. On the final day, Kelsey Wells connected physical strength with presence through Strength & Presence, a mindful movement experience that combined training with intention setting, mindfulness, and gratitude practices.

"The Art of Living Well": living well in the Cyclades, then and now

The panel opened a meaningful dialogue on the Cycladic way of life and the values that have shaped it over time. The speakers were Dr. Evy Papadopoulou, Curator of Antiquities at the Museum of Cycladic Art; Wojciech Ogłaza, Director of Business Development & Community Engagement at Design Hotels; and Polina Sapouna-Ellis, archaeologist and designer of jewellery and art objects. The discussion was moderated by Kalia Konstantinidou, Co-Founder & Group Executive Officer of Empiria Group. At its heart was the question of how simplicity, community, creativity, and respect for nature can take on new meaning today and enrich the idea of "living well."

A journey through the senses

The philosophy of PHOS unfolded through the five senses, with Paros itself becoming part of the experience. Touch was linked to creativity in the Cycladic-inspired weaving workshop with Eirini Xanthioti, and taste to the local wines and cheeses of Paros at Paros Farming Community. A walk through Naoussa seen through the camera lens invited participants to look at the familiar with fresh eyes, while the scents of the landscape, the sounds, and the stories of the three days completed an experience designed around mindful observation.

The value of being truly present

The common thread was presence: the chance to slow down, step away from the speed of everyday life, and reconnect with yourself, the people around you, and the place you are in.

Kalia Konstantinidou, Co-Founder & Group Executive Officer of Empiria Group, said:

"PHOS was born from the belief that place has the power to shape how we feel, connect and understand ourselves. Ancient Greece knew that living well is not something we chase, but something we practise: with the body, at the table, within the community. The Cyclades have kept this wisdom alive for thousands of years, in their light, their rhythms, their people. In Paros, it became clear how powerful a collective experience can be: people who met for the first time shared moments and ideas, and relationships formed naturally. The core values of PHOS remain constant, but the character of each place shapes a different experience every time. Paros was the first chapter, and we are especially delighted that the next one will take us to Santorini."

PHOS continues its journey

The close of the first PHOS did not mark an end, but the beginning of a community that continues to grow. PHOS continues its journey October 1–3, 2027, in Santorini, at Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort. A new place. A new perspective. The same PHOS spirit.