A Winter Retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Finding Stillness at The Art of Living Retreat Center
The Art of Living Retreat Center is a sanctuary for a peaceful and quiet escape. I went on a winter retreat here just after the Christmas—deciding that I required a much needed re-set before entering the New Year.
Once December rolls around I feel a natural pull to retreat — inward, slower, quieter, away. Now I am of an age where I have learned that I don’t always need a long distance plane ticket to an exotic location for a wellness retreat re-set. Lately, I’ve come to find that some of the most soul nourishing places can be within a day’s drive, tucked inside a mountain, and much closer to home.
The Art of Living Retreat Center offers short retreats ranging from 1-7 days, with plenty of options to extend if you’d like to. The classes and activities are diverse, Kundalini, guided mentation, hiking, Kirtan, sound baths and Sri Sri yoga, all set amongst a stunning campus of 50 plus acres.
The Origins of The Art of Living
Originally associated with the Transcendental Meditation (TM) tradition, the property changed in 2003. When it came under the guidance of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, it was re-named The Art of Living.
Today The Art of Living Foundation operates in over 80 countries, offering programs rooted in yoga teachings. At the North Carolina location you can expect to find a modest blend of structure and tradition for all levels.
A Sanctuary in the Blue Ridge Mountains
The retreat center is surrounded by rolling hills, forested trails, and mountain views. Winter here feels especially quiet and obscure with the fog settling into the valleys.
What Makes The Art of Living Retreat Center Unique
What sets this retreat apart is its gentle structure. Guests can participate in yoga and meditation programs, or simply exist within the container of the space — walking the grounds, sitting quietly, participating or not. The practices are offered in a way that feels inclusive and supportive, whether you’re new or have an established practice.
There is no pressure to perform wellness here. The environment itself does much of the work. In your free time, explore activities at the Ayurvedic Spa, a cooking class, or pottery.
The dining hall severs 3 vegetarian meals a day in an atmosphere that holds seating for both those who are on a silent retreat and other active retreats. The buffet style self serve meals are rich in nutrients, color and taste, and well loved by retreat participants. I promise you will eagerly look forward to breakfast, lunch and dinner here! The homemade chai hits all the notes–ginger, cardamon, pepper and anise.
Winter is traditionally a season of rest, reflection, and conservation of energy. Retreating during this time feels intuitive — an opportunity to step away from external noise and slow things down.
Who This Retreat Is For
This retreat is well-suited for:
- Those feeling mentally overstimulated or burnt out
- Travelers seeking a quieter, more intentional experience
- Individuals drawn to meditation, yoga, and contemplative spaces
- Anyone craving a pause without excess structure or luxury pressure
- Anyone craving a relaxing, restorative retreat
It’s especially nourishing for solo travelers or women seeking safety, simplicity, and stillness.
The spa is beautiful and offers Ayurvedic treatments, sauna and a relaxing atrium for sunning.
I have recommended Art of Living to so many people–beginners and seasoned practitioners alike will find this retreat just what the doctor ordered.
