If you’re looking for a much-needed pause from the pressures of the daily grind, consider a stay at The Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone, NC. For those who are truly down for the “woo,” this trip taps into your self-discovery and spiritual side. You’ll need to roll up your sleeves and get a little introspective, but the results will leave you feeling calm and centered—come with an open heart and curious mind.
The journey itself becomes a part of the retreat. After you touch down at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a two-hour ride awaits you, but as you ascend the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, a sense of peace begins to settle in. There’s magic in these mountains. The winding road, with its ever-changing vistas, prepares you for the tranquility that awaits.
The Art of Living, founded by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, is a global non-profit organization with over 10,000 centers worldwide. A reflection of their philosophy, the Boone center offers a range of programs designed to cultivate inner peace, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
Surrounded by 380 acres of pristine forest, The Center invites a sense of effortless disconnection. A gentle reminder: phone service may be limited, encouraging you to immerse yourself in the present. While The Center offers transportation to activities, comfortable shoes are a must.
Select from meditation retreats, rejuvenating rest and relaxation programs, or immersive wellness escapes, each ranging from two to four days. The Happiness Retreat, the center’s most popular, serves as an introduction to The Art of Living’s signature breathing technique, promising to cultivate mental harmony.
The programs follow a daily schedule but also incorporate ample free time to explore activities or simply find time for quiet reflection. Most programs begin with an invigorating morning yoga session, followed by a day filled with meditation, workshops, and activities like spa treatments, cooking classes, and Chakra work.
The ancient practice of Ayurveda, which focuses on balancing body, mind, and spirit, is seamlessly woven into every aspect of the experience, including the thoughtfully curated vegetarian meals served buffet-style in a communal dining hall. To further enhance your wellness journey, book an appointment at Shankara Ayurveda Wellness for a personalized consultation and rejuvenating treatments.
The Center offers a variety of no-frills accommodations. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in solitude, try the private hotel or retreat room, which range from $775 to $1,025. If you’re traveling with a friend, consider sharing a room; rates start at $625. All rates are per person and include the room, meals, and the program sessions.
The Art of Living Retreat Center
639 Whispering Hills Road, Boone, NC 28607
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