Rhythm and Resilience

Rediscover Power, Joy, and Community through Cultural Belly Dance

Nurjahan Boulden

Step into a world of self-expression, connection, and healing with a liberating, soul-expanding weekend retreat rooted in the powerful East African tradition of Kucheza Kiuno (waist dance). Led by Nurjahan Boulden, renowned belly dance teacher, speaker, and survivor of gun violence, this experience offers more than just learning belly dance moves; it’s about celebrating your body, releasing trauma, and tapping into your natural rhythm. Through gentle, sensual movement, you’ll discover how to break free from body insecurities, silence self-criticism, and embrace the joy of moving with others. This is a space where mirrors are replaced by connection, and judgment gives way to celebration. By the end of the weekend, you’ll feel empowered, rejuvenated, and ready to move with more confidence, strength, and joy. Recommended (but not required) viewing: Free Lesson with Nurjahan Note: This retreat is exclusively for women and welcomes participants from novice to advanced dance experience levels.

Starting at $380 (Tuition) + $616 (Lodging + Meals) plus tax

Reserve Your Spot Now

SAVE! Add a day or two and save 20% off our R&R rates. Select your added day(s) on the Registration page.

What to Expect

This weekend is not about perfection; it’s about letting go of shame and embracing the dance that’s been passed down for generations. Experience the freedom of movement and the power of community. Nurjahan will guide you through foundational belly dance techniques like hip circles, lifts, drops, and figure eights, helping you connect with your body in ways that foster healing and resilience. You’ll laugh, dance, and build deep connections with like-minded women, shedding stress, increasing your strength, and celebrating the full expression of who you are. The highlight? A belly dance party to celebrate your newfound sense of freedom and joy, just like the ones from Nurjahan’s childhood. This retreat isn’t just about movement—it’s about reclaiming your birthright to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Rhythm & Resilience Program Schedule

This experiential retreat offers a well-balanced schedule that combines structured educational sessions with flexible time blocks – ensuring you have ample opportunity to engage in learning while also allowing personal time to explore the retreat center and enjoy moments of reflection and relaxation.
(Program schedule subject to change.)

Nurjahan Boulden

Nurjahan Boulden has always dreamed of sharing the empowering practice of belly dance with the world. At 21, after being shot in a random attack, she faced physical and emotional struggles that left her questioning if she would ever dance again. After nearly a decade of recovery, Nurjahan found the…

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Have questions?

We’re here to help.

What is your cancellation policy?

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.

Are there any age restrictions?

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

Is your property meat-, alcohol-, and smoke-free?

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.

Are you able to accommodate food allergies?

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. You may email us at info@artoflivingretreatcenter.org.

Do you have air conditioning?

Thanks to the cool climate of the Blue Ridge Mountains, air conditioning is rarely needed. For the occasional warm day, there is a fan in each room to help keep you comfortable.

Is your property ADA compliant?

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.

How safe is the property?

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.

How do I get there?

We are remote—yet easy to get to.

The Art of Living Retreat Center offers the right balance between serenity and easy access.

Fly into Charlotte, NC—Two hours away by drive.
Check-in at 4:00 pm first day—eat dinner shortly after that.
Leave after lunch the last day—schedule your flight anytime
after 5:00 pm.

Transportation Options Between Charlotte and the Center

Hickory Hop Shuttle Service Book online hickoryhop.com The Hickory Hop shuttle goes from Charlotte airport to Boone five times daily. Reservations are required, so book ahead online and be sure to confirm shuttle times coordinate with your travel plans.

High Country Limo 828.898.9595 highcountrylimo.com

Oscar’s Car Service 704.965.5800

Edwardo’s Car Service 704.949.6775

Blue Bird Transportation 828.989.7286 Blue Bird of Boone

Abby Cab 828.475.2988 abbycab.com

Uber or Lyft Book in app on arrival.

Other airports within driving distance from the Art of Living Retreat Center include

Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) in Johnson City, TN (80 miles)
Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in Greensboro, NC (110 miles)

Visit our directions page for more information.

Reserve Your Spot Now

SAVE! Add a day or two and save 20% off our R&R rates. Select your added day(s) on the Registration page.