Neeta Bhushan

That Sucked. Now What?

How to Embrace the Joy in Chaos & Find Magic in the Mess

Dr. Neeta Bhushan

APRIL 26–28, 2024
Dr. Neeta Bhushan
APRIL 26–28, 2024
TUITION:
$350
per person—plus room/meals & tax
APRIL 26–28, 2024
Retreat Type
Family & RelationshipsFamily & Relationships
Featured PresentersFeatured Presenters
Meditation & MindfulnessMeditation & Mindfulness
Self-DiscoverySelf-Discovery
Retreat Goals
Better RelationshipsBetter Relationships
Calm & Clear MindCalm & Clear Mind
Personal DevelopmentPersonal Development

Rise Up & Fly Forward

Life is full of unpredictable twists and turns. We’ve all experienced those moments when everything seemed to fall apart, leaving us thinking, “That sucked. Now what?”

During this weekend intensive, renowned personal transformation expert and emotional health advocate Dr. Neeta Bhushan invites you to dive deep into the messy moments, the obstacles, and the challenges that didn’t go as planned. Navigate the weekend—acknowledging “the magical moment of suck,” recognizing the contributing elements of your bounce factor, and processing—using the five stages of the Fly Forward framework.

Through meditation, group discussion, journaling, one-on-one sharing/dyads, and mindfulness exercises, you will discover practical tools, insights, and strategies to embrace the unexpected magic in the mess and find joyful purpose in the chaos of adversity.

Expect to learn how to

  • Overcome internal blocks and unlock your full potential
  • Rewire thought patterns and replace outdated beliefs/behaviors
  • Increase emotional capacity when dealing with stress
  • Develop a framework for bouncing back from life challenges
  • Take radical responsibility for your emotional well-being
  • Reclaim control from negative thinking and self-talk (i.e. victim mindset, perfectionism).

Whether you’re experiencing a transition, dealing with loss, or simply looking to make real life changes, Neeta’s transformative journey of self-discovery and renewal empowers you to rise up and break through to lasting, audacious resilience.

Recommended (but not required) reading That Sucked. Now What?

Presenter

Neeta Bhushan Headshot Bio 500x500

Dr. Neeta Bhushan

Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a cosmetic dentist turned world-renowned emotional health advocate. She’s written multiple best-selling books, including her award-winning book That Sucked, Now What? endorsed by Jay Shetty, and is the founder of the Dharma Coaching Institute–a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. …

Reviews

I’m A Much Better Person
Dena Marie Hooper
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The way Dr. Neeta presents her information–from a place of having been there, from her lived experience–and puts it all together in a mini-course to give us the tools to reclaim the power in feeling our emotions, and not being ashamed by them, is the greatest gift. I’ve felt SO liberated, I’m able to communicate better with friends & family and I’m a much better person today because of her. Thank you SO much.
Changed Every Part of My Life
Annette Padilla-Cruz
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Her work, including her books and courses, has profoundly transformed my connection with my emotions. It has also given me new insights into my upbringing as a daughter in a traditional Latina family. Through her guidance, I've discovered a sense of inner peace and strength that empowered me to shed over 70 pounds and dramatically changed every part of my life. I am forever grateful. Do yourself a favor – give yourself the gift of her wisdom. You won't regret it.
Learning from Dr. Neeta is a Must
Melissa Ambrosini
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Neeta's journey through life has granted her a well-rounded perspective on conquering grief, loss, and challenges. Her sensitivity to the human experience shines through as she encourages you to discover your strength and find magic in the mess. She is one you should be learning from.
My Life Changed Forever
Codie Sanchez
Read More
I met Neeta once and my life changed forever. The next best thing to her being in your orbit, is everything she creates
You Are Not Defined By Your Upbringing
Christine Chang
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For anyone who’s first-generation from immigrant backgrounds, Dr. Neeta reminds us that we aren’t defined by our upbringing and can write our own stories to fly forward. She is the ultimate expert when it comes to transforming pain into your power.
Her Journey is Living Proof
Dr. Jen Fraboni
Read More
Neeta doesn't create frameworks that work. She has truly lived it. She’s living proof of what it means to go through the darkness and fully transform & thrive on the other side.
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Rooms & Pricing

Private Hotel Room

$348 per person/per night + tax

All options include daily vegetarian meals from dinner on the night of check-in through lunch on the day of checkout. (Rates below are per person.)

 

  • King bed or two full beds
  • Flat screen TV
  • Refrigerator
  • Private bath
  • Hair dryer
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Daily delicious vegetarian meals
  • Complimentary tea/coffee & fresh fruit
  • Daily yoga & meditation classes
  • Access to fitness & steam rooms

Shared Hotel Room (2 People)

$253 per person/per night + tax
  • Twin beds
  • Flat screen TV
  • Refrigerator
  • Private bath
  • Hair dryer
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Daily delicious vegetarian meals
  • Complimentary tea/coffee & fresh fruit
  • Daily yoga & meditation classes
  • Access to fitness & steam rooms

Private Retreat Room

$263 per person/per night + tax
  • Twin beds
  • Private bath
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Daily delicious vegetarian meals
  • Complimentary tea/coffee & fresh fruit
  • Daily yoga & meditation classes
  • Access to fitness & steam rooms

Shared Retreat Room (2 People)

$215 per person/per night + tax
  • Twin beds
  • Private bath
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Daily delicious vegetarian meals
  • Complimentary tea/coffee & fresh fruit
  • Daily yoga & meditation classes
  • Access to fitness & steam rooms

Shared Retreat Room (3 People)

$188 per person/per night + tax
  • Twin beds
  • Private bath
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Daily delicious vegetarian meals
  • Complimentary tea/coffee & fresh fruit
  • Daily yoga & meditation classes
  • Access to fitness & steam rooms

Schedule

That Sucked. Now What?

How to Embrace Life’s Messy Moments to Fly Forward
April 26–28, 2024

Subject to change.

Friday 7:30–10:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 2:00–4:00 pm
Sunday 9:30–11:30 am Room checkout is 11:00 am; luggage may be held at Reception.

General Information

All times are Eastern Standard Time (EST) unless otherwise noted.

Arrival Day
4:00 pm Check-in begins; Rooms are ready by 4:00 pm, but if you arrive early we will hold your luggage at Reception.
6:00–7:00 pm Dinner
7:00–7:20 pm Guest Orientation Session (Venue: Dining Hall)

Actual schedules and venues may vary; please confirm with Front Desk upon check-in.

Apart from the activities in your program schedule, we offer the following optional complementary activities. (Please join only if your program schedule permits.)

  • 9:45–10:45 am  Yoga |  Thu–Sun
  • 11:00 am–12:00 pm  Mind & Meditation |  Thu–Sun
  • 1:30–2:15 pm  Guided Hike* | Assemble at Shankara Reception | Sat
  • 2:30–3:45 pm  Ayurveda Cooking Class* | Tulsi Kitchen
    Thu: Sweet Treats • Sat: Chef’s Seasonal Recipe
  • 4:15–5:15 pm Yoga |  Wed–Sat
  • 5:30–6:00 pm  Guided Meditation |  Wed–Sat
  • 7:30–8:15 pm  Meditative Chants/Kirtan |  Wed–Sat
    Saturday kirtan is outdoor by the bonfire; weather permitting.

*Included with Wellness Escapes and R&R; Other participants: $35.00/per person

Clay Studio
  • 11:00 am–7:00 pm Friday & Saturday
    Hand Building $55 | 1 hour
  • 9:00 | 10:45 am Sunday
     Wheel Throwing $75 all guests; glazing and shipping are included | semi-private class | 75 minutes

Hours

Wednesday 11:00–8:00 pm
Thursday–Saturday 9:00 am–6:00 pm
Sunday 8:00 am–2:00 pm

We encourage you to also make reservations for consultations, therapies, and treatments at our award-winning Shankara Ayurveda Wellness at least two weeks prior to your arrival date to ensure availability. Please call 828.264.8382 for details. Additional cost.

FAQs

On-Campus Program FAQs

For room reservations, Ayurveda Wellness Retreats, and Art of Living Retreat Center (AOLRC) signature retreats, we have the following cancellation policy:

  • Refunds are available (less a $50/per person processing fee) up to 15 days before your program or stay.
  • Nonrefundable credit toward a future AOLRC program or stay (less a $50/per person processing fee) is available if you give notice between 14 and one day(s) before your program or stay. Credit may be applied to any AOLRC program or stay for one year following date of issue.
  • No credit or refund is available if you cancel on the arrival day, if you do not show up, or if you leave an event early for any reason. No refund will be available if you attend a program and are dissatisfied with its presentation or content.

AOLRC reserves the right to cancel a program at any time. If AOLRC cancels a program, you will receive a full refund. Some programs may have special cancellation policies; see individual workshop descriptions. For all other retreats, please be sure to check the registration page specific to that retreat.

Unless otherwise indicated, our programs are open to participants 18 years of age and older.

To encourage a healthy environment we ask that guests not consume alcohol or meat in our public spaces, however, guests may enjoy these items in their rooms.

Our property is always smoke-free.

Yes, we ask that guests with food allergies simply inform us so we can communicate those needs to our chef. Typically, we label potential allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts.

We do have lodging and event venues that are ADA-compliant. Due to the topography of our mountain campus, some are easier to access than others, so please speak to Guest Services (800.392.6870) prior to registering to ensure we can best accommodate your needs. We also have shuttles that run frequently throughout the campus.

We are committed to the safety of our guests and staff. Our mountaintop location and the surrounding areas are spacious, remote, safe, and secure.

  • It is safe to leave your windows open—and necessary for proper airflow!
  • Nature surrounds our campus, and it’s common to see rabbits, deer, gophers, wild turkeys, and other small animals. Please give them space, and they’ll do the same for you. We’ve never had a safety incident with animals on campus.

You can help!

  • If you come across an animal on campus or a trail, give it space, and please do not attempt to pet or feed it.
  • There’s no need to bring valuables to the retreat center; leaving them at home is best.

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

TUITION
$350
per person—plus room/meals & tax

Art of Living Retreat Center

Google Reviews

854 Reviews
4.8/5
- Leslie E.
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"If you want to relax, recharge, and find yourself again, this is the place!"
- Vasily T.
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"A magnificent place for a refreshing retreat. So peaceful and close to nature as it can be."
- Becca N.
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"Excellent food, spa, tons of activities outside of program warm environment for growth Thank you!"
- Rob H.
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"The techniques I learned here have literally transformed my life."
- Michelle L.
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"Excellent program, beautiful surroundings. Wonderful setting for deep connection & reset."
- Dan V.
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"I did not know what to expect. I am very pleased with what I have learned and excited to bring back home."
- Bonnie M.
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"Beautiful grounds with wonderful, genuinely loving instructors. This was a life changing experience!"
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Related Events

Add a day—or more!—to your stay!

Arriving at the Center a day early lets you embrace the serenity, adjust to peace, and reflect before the retreat. Extra days also allow you to participate in R&R workshops and Ayurvedic healing arts, or use the time to reflect, process, and internalize your retreat experience before you head home. 

Either way, you’ll save 20% off our regular R&R rates! Select your added day(s) on the registration page.

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