Who we are
Unio contrariorium, UNIO for short, is a non-profit education association in Austria. We want to give people simple, practical means to look after their physical and mental health independently.
Our base is Bad Vöslau on the edge of the Vienna Woods. Our courses take place there in a house with a group room, kitchen and accommodation. Our activities are especially for young people and young adults with fewer opportunities, and for adults in social, care and other relationship-intensive professions.
Know thyself.
The union of opposites
“Unio contrariorium” means “union of opposites”. The name is a short translation of the Yin-Yang principle: all phenomena rest on a polarity, and life arises from the union of opposites.
The Latin unio means unity, and also: a large onion. That is where our sign comes from, the sprouting onion. The German word for onion, Zwiebel, goes back to Old High German zwi (two) and bolla (bud): from the union of two, something new grows.
The Yin-Yang principle does not judge. It knows no good or bad, but orders things by qualities such as warm and cold, active and calm. That is exactly why it works as a tool for recognising one's own situation and deciding independently, without dogma.
Coincidentia oppositorum
Three programme areas
Well-being and resilience
Inner balance, a healthy relationship between work and private life, and the ability to renew one's own strength.
Youth work
Experience-based learning for young people and their youth workers, aiming at healthy everyday routines.
Adult education
Exchange of methods and good practice for professionals in helping and social professions, connected internationally.
Our activities are learning activities. They promise no cure and do not replace medical or therapeutic treatment. The experience we build on is largely the personal experience of our members, and we present it as such.
Our place: Bad Vöslau
Bad Vöslau lies south of Vienna between the Vienna Woods and vineyards and is known for its thermal spring. Our courses are hosted by Annette and Klemens Hager, who have run an apartment house with a group room here for many years. Woods, meadows and viewpoints are within walking distance.
