Anxiety, Depression, and Chronic Stress Wellness Retreats

8-Day Retreat

BOONE, NC

+ 7-day at-home pre-cleanse
+ 7-day at-home post-cleanse
5/5
“As my daughter said ‘Mom, you sound like your old self” —Denise H.

This program is not being offered in 2022. We suggest one of these programs as an alternative:

Discover Ayurveda Solo Escape

Enjoy deep rest and rejuvenation with three 60-minute Ayurveda treatments that support relaxation, clearing, and restoration on the physical, mental, and emotional levels.

Rejuvenating Bliss Solo Escape

From arrival to departure, your body, mind, and spirit will be nurtured back to a deep sense of peace and well-being that carries you throughout your days.

Managing Depression, Anxiety, and Insomnia the Ayurvedic Way

On-demand, self-paced program with Vaidya Preeti Patel.

Overview

Did you know that anxiety, major depression, and chronic stress disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States? In fact, about 1 in 5 adults experience anxiety, approximately 46.6 million adults in a given year. Anxiety disorders are considered to be highly treatable, yet less than half of those suffering receive treatment. In addition, an estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States have experienced at least one major depressive episode. Furthermore, chronic stress is a national epidemic for all genders and ages, which can be both the cause and the effect of anxiety and depression. 

Despite conventional medicine’s best efforts, the numbers of those affected by depression, anxiety, or chronic stress continue to rise. Unfortunately, conventional anxiety and depression medications often have harsh side effects, including weight loss or gain, sexual dysfunction, headaches, sleep problems, and drowsiness to name a few. The success of other treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy has shown that “therapist training is a strong predictor of treatment outcome, and many therapists offering CBT services are not sufficiently trained to deliver multiple manual-based interventions with adequate fidelity to the model.”

With such a challenging outlook for those with anxiety, depression, and chronic stress in our country, it’s clear we need a new approach. 

Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old holistic wellness and health care system that provides a solid foundation for individuals seeking to regain a life without anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. Our authentic approach includes rejuvenation and detoxification to heal and restore the body to its optimal health, while various tools for stress reduction, exercise, cleansing, and lifestyle practices provide ongoing support in the reduction or elimination of anxiety and depression. It is possible to regain a life with happiness, clarity, and emotional stability with our anxiety, depression, and chronic stress retreat. 

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Our Holistic Approach to Addressing Anxiety, Depression, and Chronic Stress

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Shankara Ayurveda Wellness: Authentic Ayurveda

Experience our award-winning Ayurveda health facility at Shankara Ayurveda Wellness located deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains. We combine ancient Ayurveda with contemporary wellness to bring you the ultimate therapeutic experience.

Our team of Ayurvedic practitioners, highly-trained therapists, and under the guidance of an esteemed team of Ayurvedic Doctors, are dedicated to providing excellence in Ayurvedic health and well-being. Together, we specialize in individualized holistic care to the whole mind-body complex and the management of health conditions.

Relax and rejuvenate in the deeply healing and restful setting of Shankara Ayurveda Wellness, and enjoy a blend of facilities to support your well-being, including a relaxation room, steam room, movement studio, dedicated dining area, and a cooking demonstration kitchen. 

Your journey to health and vitality begins here.

This Retreat Will Change Your Life

healthier body

Healthier Body

  • Feel lighter
  • Increase energy
  • Improve strength
  • Boost your immune system
  • Remove toxic build-up
healthier mind

Healthier Mind

  • Manage stress effectively
  • Experience a calm mind
  • Feel more relaxed
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Experience mental clarity & vitality
healthier soul

Healthier Soul

  • Deepen your connection to what matters most
  • Establish practices to support mind, body, & soul
  • Be part of a supportive community
  • Experience greater contentment
healthier senses

Healthier Senses

  • Gain new & enjoyable approaches to living well​
  • Establish healthy eating patterns
  • Understand how food affects the mind & body
  • Improve your relationship with food

Testimonials

Reviews

Everyone was Incredible!
Natalia P.
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“Emotionally I feel less heavy, as though I was able to let go of a lot of stuck and negative emotions I had. I feel happier and feel as though I know myself more and are accepting of myself more as well. Every single person I interacted with or that I had a session with was incredible! They were always making sure I felt comfortable and trying to make my time there perfect. They were so helpful and pleasant. They always made me feel so special. The food was great, I had no cravings and at until full. I enjoyed it and it tasted really good! Everything was incredible and completely exceeded my expectations. I am so grateful for the kindness and genuine concern of everyone to make sure I got the most out of this experience. I am grateful for the time allowed to reflect and meditate and be pampered that helped teach me so much. Thank you so very much!”
No More Worrying
Loundes A.
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“I am able to deal with stressful thoughts better. I don’t feel that immediate worrying in my body. I had a great experience. I was able to go deep in my thoughts. I am excited about all the tools I take with me. It’s the perfect place for this retreat. It is also all very clean and you feel like you are at home. There are such wonderful people, from the doctor, practitioner and spa attendants, they were understanding and knowledgeable. The food was delicious.”
My mind is clear
Denise H.
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“I feel restored, lighter, my mind is clear. I can’t express it in words. As my daughter said ‘Mom, you sound like your old self.’ More than I ever thought possible. I came in with a somewhat skeptical mind, wanting to believe, but did not think it would be what was ‘said experience.’ Each meal was an adventure and different. You could taste the flavorful spices in balance.”
Challenging but nurturing
Sally O.
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“I was feeling low and nervous. My life felt stuck and in an unhealthy place. I feel the opposite now. It was very challenging but nurturing. I didn’t realize I would be eating such a limited diet but it was wonderful when I had the buffet. The kindness of the staff ”
Feel lighter as a whole
Joe C
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“I feel more relieved from thoughts and my anxiety somewhat dwindled as well. I definitely feel lighter as a whole. At first I was apprehensive about no a/c but given the climate it really works. I am most grateful for the opportunity to learn about Ayurveda while going through the detoxification”
Happier, grateful, blessed!
Alessandra V.
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So much happier, grateful, blessed. The food was expected considering doing a cleanse. Would have preferred more variety but I understand the reasons.”
Calmer, Cleaner, Clearer
Rebecca L.
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“I feel wonderful, calmer, cleaner, and clearer. More energy. Less heavy. I am grateful for myself and for all the wonderful support, wisdom, knowledge that everyone shared with me. Wonderful pace.”
Grounded and Centered
Linda C.
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“I feel grounded and centered both spiritually and emotionally. All the therapist were excellent. I had a severe migraine and during my 2nd and 3rd treatment both Shona and Chelsea spent time treating the painful areas. Due to the program I are kitchari each meal, but it was well prepared. Each person was extremely friendly, helpful, and professional.”
Peaceful yet energized
Teri A.
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“I arrived feeling sick, depressed, and very unhealthy and am leaving feeling peaceful, yet energized and hopeful. All my therapists were professional, knowledgeable, and very good at their jobs. Food was delicious Thursday night. I really had a hard time having so much ghee, but otherwise was great food”
Beauty everywhere
Elizabeth Q.
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“I feel at peace. I feel light. I feel like there is beauty everywhere”
Lighter, less anxiety
Tara M.
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“I feel lighter, less anxiety, less racing thoughts, and have glowing skin. Everyone was attentive, intuitive, kind, and great at their job. The food was so delicious. I am so grateful for the harmony, nature, and connection.”
Clearer like crystal
Alyson C.
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“I am clearer (like a crystal). I feel so much lighter, more activated and expanded with more positivity overall and more groundedness, peace, and confidence”
More calm and focused
Lily P.
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“I definitely feel more calm and focused with less thoughts. My mind doesn’t feel drained. It was a rewarding experience and worth the money”
Tools to heal
Rachel M.
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“I feel really good and have the tools to continue to heal and find more happiness. My body is less stressed and tense, my mind is calm and certain negative emotions have been released”
Dramatic transformation
Khalid B.
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“Dramatic transformation. Clarity. Calm. Focus”
Less anxious
Kimberly H.
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“Less anxious, more energy, more focus, calmer”
So much better
Amy O.
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“So much clearer in my mind. I feel so much better. I am clear on what direction to go in and what ‘feeds’ my soul…. Honoring myself and my time and making wise choices”
Refreshed, centered, and relaxed
Amber S.
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“I feel refreshed, centered, and relaxed. I feel lighter and energized. My mind is more calm. Wonderful information, instruction, and guidance. Completely worth the time, effort, and investment.”
Gained mindfulness
Brooke G.
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“I have gained mindfulness and are more aware of what my body’s needs are. I am most grateful for the new connections I have made with the people I have met as well as the knowledge to improve my health.”
Authentic
Rob B.
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“I feel much more relaxed and calm. I am most grateful for a place that can take you through the experience as authentically as possible.”
Beyond my expectations
Sussie M.
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“The program was beyond my expectations with regards to the amount of support by the staff, through an uncomfortable process. Thank you! Everyone was extremely friendly and kind.”
Exactly what I was looking for!
Laurie A.
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“I had a wonderful experience - this was exactly what I was looking for in a retreat. I am grateful for the kindness and caring of the whole staff and also grateful for the knowledge I am taking home. I am more calm and at ease, more emotionally stable, and rested and nourished. Thank you!”
Clearer and bright
Ananika B.
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“I feel lighter as if a cloud and weight has been lifted. I feel clearer and bright! I had a wonderful experience and the retreat was a home: it was comfortable, supportive and loving all the way! The venue was convenient, comfortable and very hygienic. The needs of the guests were always kept in mind. The food was very lovingly and thoughtfully prepared - full of life-force, vital energy and healing”
More relaxed, calm, and optimistic
Elena Y.
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“When I arrived I felt tired and anxious and now I am more relaxed, calm, and optimistic. The experience was very good, I am very grateful that people were helpful, kind, and willing to share their stories and knowledge. The food was very well cooked.”
Very educational
Martha L.
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“Very educational in terms of Ayurveda and learning specifically about my body. Unexpected that the cleanse was as much mental as physical - but wonderfully so. My energy levels are high and I feel much lighter. I feel mentally clearer, calmer, sharper, more positive. My sleep progressively improved each night.”
Loving, healing, and energizing
Lesli P.
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“I was feeling nervous and worried about the future when I arrived. My experience was loving, healing, and energizing. The food was great even if was repetitious due to the cleanse. I am so grateful for the peace, strength, and focus that I have found.”
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FAQs

This is a specialized program for the treatment and management of anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. The program is suitable if you experience any of these health concerns or if you have a personal history or family members that have anxiety and depression, as this can be used as a preventative measure. 

However, we are unable to accept:

  • Anyone who has a medical history of Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenic, and/or Schizoaffective Disorder.
  • Anyone that has had recent hospitalization for depression or anxiety in last year. 

During your initial consultation with an Ayurveda expert, please inform them of any current prescription medication you are taking and medical history.

Once you register for the program, you will receive an initial consultation with an Ayurveda expert to determine whether the program is suitable for you. To ensure you receive the maximum program benefits, it is essential at that stage we are informed of any current prescription medication you are taking and medical history.

Cancellations less than two weeks, prior to the program, will be charged 50% of the full program fee.

Please discuss your special dietary need or allergies with an Ayurveda specialist. Dietary requirements, such as gluten-free and vegan options are generally available.

No. If you have anxiety and/or depression, you will work with our team to help manage your health condition. We have Ayurveda experts on staff to care for you during the process. However, it will be up to your primary care doctor to make the decision on whether you are in a place to adjust, reduce, or stop your medications.

No. If you have anxiety and/or depression, you will work with our team to help manage your health condition. We have Ayurveda experts on staff to care for you during the process. However, it will be up to your primary care doctor to make the decision on whether you are in a place to adjust, reduce, or stop your medications. We encourage that you share all your herbal and non-herbal supplements with your primary care doctor.

A lot of participants feel more balanced, physically, mentally, and emotionally and empowered to create positive change in their daily life. However, results are completely dependent on how your body reacts to the treatments. It also depends on how closely the diet and lifestyle recommendations are followed.

During this specialized 8-day retreat, you’ll receive an individualized diet specific to your unique body type to rebuild your body and your digestion. A lot of the foods that will be prepared and recommended are based around a plant-based diet.

Aside from your personal effects (and any medication), we suggest you bring comfortable clothing and layers (mountain weather can be changeable) and anything that will make you feel more at home. We take care of everything else.

You may wish to also bring swimwear for use in the steam room.

Each studio space at the Center is equipped with yoga mats, blankets, and blocks.

Everyone has unique physical capabilities. All of the programs are adjusted to meet the attendee where they are at to help build up your strength and endurance.

During your pre-cleanse, cleanse and post-cleanse a plant-based diet is recommended. However, we will create a program which is sustainable for long-term success.

The food is locally sourced and non-GMO.

Absolutely, for an additional fee. We have multiple program options available at the Center. Your family member or friend can choose from our retreat calendar or customize their own retreat.

Absolutely, for an additional fee. You can create your own vacation with an R&R Retreat and spend some additional days relaxing at the Center. Choose from a variety of daily classes, activities, and Ayurveda  treatments (additional cost), as well as an abundance of nature trails and quiet spaces. Please discuss with an Ayurvedic specialist at our Shankara Ayurveda Wellness for details.

You’ll receive an individualized diet plan specific to your unique body type to rebuild your body and your digestion. During the residential retreat, you’ll be served a plant-based diet to support the process.

No. If you have a personal history or family members that have anxiety or depression, this can be used as a preventative measure to help you avoid experiencing anxiety and depression in the future. The program can also be beneficial in managing chronic stress.

You will receive support throughout the program. Our team is dedicated to providing individualized holistic care to the whole mind-body complex.

Once you register for the program, you will receive an initial consultation with an Ayurveda expert to determine whether the program is suitable for you. To ensure you receive the maximum program benefits, it is essential at that stage we are informed of any current prescription medication you are taking and medical history. 

Important Note: This program is not suitable if you are pregnant.

Schedule

8-Day Residential Retreat + 7-Day Pre-Cleanse + 7-day Post-Cleanse (Starting at $ 3,665)

We support you every step of the way on your journey to renewed health.

The program is designed to yield the highest results pertaining to anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. It begins 5 days before your arrival to the 8-day residential retreat. The whole duration of the program includes treatments, diet guidance, and ongoing support⁠—making it more cost-effective than traditional western treatments.

You begin with a simple, fully guided, 5-day at-home pre-cleanse, which continues more deeply at the Center during the 8-day retreat. 

Please note, this schedule is subject to change and will vary based on the guests’ needs.

Before Retreat

Day 1 (Friday)

Day 2 (Saturday)

Day 3 (Sunday)

Day 4 (Monday)

Day 5 (Tuesday)

Day 6 (Wednesday)

Day 7 (Thursday)

Day 8 (Friday)

After Retreat

Online Programs and Consultations

The Happiness Retreat

Offered online, our signature Happiness program is an evidence-based immersion where you'll learn to master practical breathing and meditation techniques that will benefit you for life.

Ayurveda At-Home Seasonal Cleanse

Everything you need, including the guidance and support of our expert faculty, to successfully reset and heal your body.

Online Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultations

Work with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner via video conferencing to set health and wellness goals incorporating easy and accessible self-care techniques to bring you into balance through diet, lifestyle, and more.

Get the Details About Anxiety, Depression, and Chronic Stress

Discover how the authentic approach of Ayurvedic medicine, diet, and lifestyle practices can help you regain a life with happiness, clarity, and emotional stability.

Location

639 Whispering Hills Road
Boone, NC 28607
800.392.6870

Discover deep rest and rejuvenation on our tranquil mountaintop campus set amidst 380 acres of pristine forest in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone, North Carolina.  

Talk to an Ayurveda Specialist

Related Events

Weekend of Creativity Wellness Escape

(Sample Schedule)

MORNING

  • Plan your special day over a delicious whole-foods breakfast.
  • Walk our beautiful labyrinth or hike one of our scenic nature trails and reconnect with your inner self.
  • Express your creativity and have some fun playing with and shaping clay in your pottery class.

AFTERNOON

  • Mingle with like-minded visitors over lunch in the Dining Hall.
  • Cook up something new together in our Ayurveda cooking class or get clever on the canvas in a painting class.
  • Unwind with a relaxing spa treatment. Choose from a warm oil massage, energizing facial, or rejuvenating Netra Tarpana treatment and let our professional therapists pamper you. (Additional spa treatments available here.)
  • Recharge in the steam room.

EVENING

  • Browse our shop for crystals, jewelry, scarves, and more.
  • Nourish your body with a healthy dinner.
  • Take in the spectacular sunset or join the fireside concert.

Discover Ayurveda Solo Escape

(Sample Schedule)

MORNING

  • Energize your mind, body, and spirit with morning yoga or meditation class.
  • Savor a delicious and nutritious breakfast.
  • Self-reflect as you leisurely walk our beautiful labyrinth.
  • Rest, replenish and rejuvenate with Abhyanga therapy—a detoxifying warm oil Ayurveda massage that incorporates warm, aromatic oils, rhythmically massaged into your body, cleansing, relaxing, and re-energizing the body and mind.

AFTERNOON

  • Grab some delicious chai and relax in our cafe or take in the majestic views on our deck.
  • Plan your afternoon over a nourishing lunch.
  • Connect with nature while hiking or walking one of our many breathtaking mountain trails.
  • Return to the spa for a Basti session to rejuvenate your joints! Stiff joints are bathed in warm medicated oil and massaged to deepen the therapeutic effects that increase lubrication and promote smooth flexibility and mobility.

EVENING

  • Get creative and have fun in our painting studio or kitchen.
  • Refuel your body with a tasty and healthy dinner.

Rejuvenating Bliss Solo Escape

(Sample Schedule)

MORNING

  • Gaze at the sunrise while filling your lungs with fresh mountain air and feel the warmth of the sun on your skin.
  • Sow a new level of calm and balance into your life with a Yoga or meditation class.
  • Enjoy a delicious whole-foods breakfast.
  • Cleanse your soul with a leisurely walk on one of our beautiful nature trails.

AFTERNOON

  • Nourish your body with a healthy and nutritious lunch.
  • Make a new memory with a cooking, painting, or pottery* class (*additional cost).
  • Choose from the widest selection of Ayurvedic therapies in the US for whole-body nourishment and renewal and let our professional therapists do all the work while you relax and rejuvenate.
  • Unwind in the steam room.

EVENING

  • Stop by our bookstore and explore our collection of new and classic self-care and spiritual resources.
  • Grab a fresh, calming herbal tea and curl up with a good book in your cozy room.

Mother-Daughter Wellness Escape

(Sample Schedule)

MORNING

  • Plan your special day over a delicious whole-foods breakfast.
  • Retreat into relaxation with a mother-daughter spa treatment. Choose from a warm oil massage, energizing facial, or rejuvenating Netra Tarpana treatment and let our professional therapists pamper you. (Additional spa treatments available here.)
  • Recharge in the steam room.

AFTERNOON

  • Enjoy a decadent Mexican hot chocolate and reminisce in our cozy cafe.
  • Browse our shop for crystals, jewelry, scarves, and more.
  • Mingle with like-minded visitors over lunch in the Dining Hall.
  • Explore our captivating campus or head out on one of our guided mountain trail hikes.
  • Cook up something new together in our Ayurveda cooking class.
  • Self-reflect as you leisurely walk our beautiful labyrinth.

EVENING

  • Feed your body with a healthy dinner.
  • Take in the spectacular sunset or join the fireside concert.

Girlfriends Wellness Escape

(Sample Schedule)

MORNING
  • Energize your mind, body, and spirit together with morning yoga or meditation class.
  • Catch up over a delicious and nutritious breakfast.
  • Connect with nature and reminisce while hiking one of our many mountain trails.
AFTERNOON
  • Plan your afternoon over a nourishing lunch.
  • De-stress with a girlfriends spa treatment, like our relaxing signature massage, hydrating facial, or energizing Marma session, and let our therapists work their magic. (Additional spa treatments available here.)
  • Get creative and have fun in our painting studio or Ayurveda food kitchen.
  • Grab some delicious chai and relax in our cafe or take in the majestic views on our deck.
EVENING
  • Plenty of time for bonding during a dinner.
  • Visit our shop and grab some souvenirs, rejuvenating herbal supplements, and restorative health products from Shankara’s all-natural beauty line.
  • Dance and sing at Kirtan.

Couples Wellness Escape

(Sample Schedule)

MORNING

  • Gaze at the sunrise while filling your lungs with fresh mountain air and reminisce on the moments that connected you.
  • Bring a new level of calm and balance to your relationship with a Yoga or Meditation class.
  • Enjoy a delicious whole-foods breakfast together.
  • Walk or hike one of our beautiful nature trails and reconnect with each other, nature, and oneself.

AFTERNOON

  • Share a healthy and nutritious lunch.
  • Make a new memory by taking a workshop or educational class, or create a new experience together with a pottery*, watercolor painting, or cooking class (*additional cost).
  • Reduce tension and stress with a couple’s or individual Ayurveda spa treatment. Choose from the widest selection of Ayurvedic therapies in the US for whole-body nourishment and renewal.
  • Unwind in the steam room together.

EVENING

  • Stop by our bookstore and explore our collection of self-care and spiritual resources or spend time reading in the cafe.

Group Inquiry Request

Group Inquiry Request