Elevate your essence...

Discover the transformative power of breathwork and meditation for vitality, peace, and wellness—in the stunning natural setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Welcome to the Art of Living Breath & Bliss Weekend Retreat

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From $1,121 Based on housing | Wed–Sun

Elevate your essence...

Discover the transformative power of breathwork and meditation for vitality, peace, and wellness—in the stunning natural setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Welcome to the Art of Living Breath & Bliss Weekend Retreat

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5-Day/4-Night Retreat

Discover
serenity & joy

Find Purpose
& Clarity

Ready to hit the reset button and find balance?

Join us for the ultimate retreat—the perfect combination of tools and resources for self-care and rejuvenation. Our Breath & Bliss Retreat includes a day of R&R to settle in and unwind, combined with three days of exploring the transformative powers of pranayama and meditation. 

Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.

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Have questions? Call us at 800.392.6870

what you will experience

what you will experience

A Day for Your Self

Rest & Rejuvenate

Spend your first day on campus disconnecting from the chaos of everyday life and tuning in to your soul. Choose from a variety of life-enhancing workshops and activities that reduce stress, increase mental focus, revive your senses, and strengthen your overall well-being. 

Or simply enjoy time in the fresh mountain air and pristine forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Breathtaking vistas, peace, and serenity opens your heart and helps you settle into your program.

EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF YOUR BREATH

The Sudarshan Kriya

The Sudarshan Kriya (SKY Breath Meditation) utilizes specific rhythms of the breath to cleanse the body of accumulated stress and toxins, clear the mind of unwanted impressions, and allow for greater clarity and tranquility. 100+ independent studies back its immediate effectiveness.

Through regular practice, you can achieve a deeper state of rest for the entire system, beyond momentary relaxation. Research indicates that results are experienced from the very first session.

sahaj samadhi meditation

DISCOVER INNER SILENCE & DEEP REST

Sahaj Samadhi Meditation

Sahaj Samadhi Meditation is an ancient, effortless mantra-based technique. It facilitates deep rest and inner silence in the present moment, expands consciousness, and deepens self-connection. It brings the mind into the present moment.

If you’re looking for a way to remove unwanted thoughts and eliminate chatter of the mind, regret, anxiety, and worry, this technique helps you achieve that—effortlessly and effectively. The result is a clear peaceful state of mind that stays with you throughout the day.

Your Teachers

Radhika Prabhu

Radhika Prabhu

Radhika Prabhu has taught breathwork, yoga, and meditation for more than 22 years, unlocking peace and inner joy for countless people. Her study of these techniques started as a child. She attended meditation courses with her parents—both physicians—who taught her the critical link between mental fitness and overall health and well-being. …

Gopika Setlur

Gopika Setlur

Gopika Setlur’s journey into meditation began in childhood, setting the stage for a life dedicated to spiritual growth and teaching. As a certified Art of Living teacher with more than 18 years of experience, she has had the privilege of studying directly with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Alongside her spiritual work, Gopika runs a thriving design studio in Marin, where creativity and intention meet. As a mother to her 18-month-old, she gracefully navigates the balance between running her own business and motherhood. Through her teachings, Gopika invites others to reconnect with themselves and find peace amidst the ever-changing rhythms of life.

NBC News, CNN, The Washington Post, HuffPost, and Yoga Journal logos

Enjoy Our Wellness Activities

During your free time, participate in our many soul-feeding activities—daily yoga and meditation, Ayurveda workshops, nightly kirtan, miles of hiking trails, and more. 

ENHANCE YOUR WELL-BEING WITH NOURISHING FOOD

Soulful Dining Experience

Drawing on influences from the local harvest in Boone to Bombay and even the Caribbean, you’ll enjoy deeply satisfying vegetarian meals. Ayurvedic principles tell us to eat nature—real food grown by sun, soil, wind, and water full of nature’s prana, or life force. Our chefs know this, and they know that food prepared with love of the planet and the person being fed is the best food. ⁠Our campus is vegetarian and special dietary requests can be accommodated.

TESTIMONIALS

What People Say

Aryanne DiVito

This was just what I was looking for. It gave me a routine that allows me to feel empowered and peaceful. So much gratitude.

—Aryanne D.

Shivani R.

It was such a rejuvenating and liberating experience. I highly recommend it for anyone trying to find that inner peace and balance in their lives.

—Shivani R.

15 years in entertainment, from TV to content, It wasn’t till now I’ve been able to constantly create from the most loving depths of my heart. On and off the floor, All thanks to Sky Breath and Sahaj.

—Dominic S. (D-trix)

Truly life-changing…I wholeheartedly recommend the retreat to everyone. It was brimming with love and played a significant role in helping me find greater inner peace and balance.

—Amanda O.

THE ART OF LIVING RETREAT CENTER
UPGRADE OPTIONS

Shankara Ayurveda Wellness

Shankara Ayurveda Wellness is renowned as a premier destination for holistic well-being, earning accolades from top sources like USA Today, Organic Spa, and SpaFinder. More than just a spa, we offer the pinnacle of Ayurvedic healing, featuring an extensive range of award-winning treatments designed to provide whole-body nourishment and renewal.

Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or new to Ayurveda, our expert care caters to your unique needs, offering unparalleled support for detoxification, relaxation, and rejuvenation. 

Please Note Additional cost. We highly recommend booking your treatments at least four weeks in advance of your arrival date to ensure availability by calling 828.264.8382 during Shankara business hours.

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

shiro ayurveda wellness
Art of Living Retreat Center - Happiness Retreats and more
THE ART OF LIVING RETREAT CENTER

Scenic. Serene. Inspiring.

The perfect place to begin your journey to holistic wellness.

Since 2012, the Art of Living Retreat Center has offered wellness retreats featuring meditation, yoga, and Ayurveda. The Center is high in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone, North Carolina, surrounded by 380 acres of pristine forest. Beauty, nature, and time-honored architecture create the perfect setting that is authentic, not extravagant.
Chelsea Testimonial

“You drive up this mountain and it’s instant, total bliss. It’s beautiful. Everything about it is magical.”

—Chelsea H.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Ready for better focus and more energy?

And therefore, more happiness? Learn new ways to handle life’s challenges to feel more peace, more love, more fulfilled. Both during your stay—and when you return home.

Day 1

WEDNESDAY

Check In
4:00 pm

Dinner
6:00 pm

Orientation & Property Overview
7:00 pm

Meditative Chants/Kirtan
7:30 pm

THURSDAY

A Day of R&R
Spend the first full day of your retreat participating in our schedule of activities, indulging in spa treatments, or just relaxing during time in nature.

Session 1
The Secret of the Breath
7:30–9:30 pm

FRIDAY

Session 2
Morning Yoga
7:30–8:30 am

Session 3
The Rhythms of Life
10:00 am–1:00 pm

Session 4
Deepening Our Experience
5:15–6:30 pm

SATURDAY

Session 5
Morning Yoga
7:30–8:30 am

Session 6
Five Wisdom Keys
10:00 am–12:30 pm

Session 7
Effortless Meditation
5:00–6:30 pm

SUNDAY

Session 8
Morning Yoga
7:30–8:30 am

Session 9
New Start: Home Practice
10:00 am–1:00 pm

Breakfast  7:30–9:30 am • Lunch: 12:00–1:30 pm • Dinner: 6:00–7:30 pm

Retreat activities include Meditative Chants • Bonfires • Labyrinth • Nature trails

SPECIAL! Book at least 21 days before the program start date and save 10%!

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PRICING & ROOMS

All-inclusive options

Coming alone? Or with others? Choose a price and space for your needs. Prices below include everything—rooms, meals, and program sessions.

Private Hotel Room
$885 to $955

Shared Hotel Room (for 2)
$745 to $845

Private Retreat Room
$745 to $846

Shared Retreat Room (for 2)
$665 to $765

Shared Retreat Room (for 3)
$595 to $695

1-Bedroom Apartment
$1,095 to $1,195

1-Bedroom Apartment (w loft)
$1,235 to $1,335

Save $100 by registering 14 days in advance
Private Hotel Room

$885 to $955

Shared Hotel Room (for 2)

$745 to $845

Private Retreat Room

$745 to $846

Shared Retreat Room (for 2)

$665 to $765

Shared Retreat Room (for 3)

$595 to $695

1-Bedroom Apartment

$1,095 to $1,195

1-Bedroom Apartment (w loft)

$1,235 to $1,335

TRAVEL INFO

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.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

We are here to help.

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.

ALL THE WAYS TO VISIT

Every year, we offer hundreds of immersive programs, including our transformative Signature Meditation Retreats, deeply healing Ayurveda Wellness Escapes, restorative R&R retreats, and events with renowned leaders in the fields of spirituality, yoga, self-development, relationships, fitness, and health and wellness. 

Private Hotel Room

$1,825

per person + 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)​

$1,545

per person + 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​

$1,545

per person + 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)

$1,385

per person + 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)

$1,245

per person + 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

Premium 1-Bedroom Apartment​

$2,245

per person + tax

  • Fully Furnished 665 sq. ft. apartment
  • (Max: 2 persons)
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Kitchenette
  • Balcony
  • Washer & Dryer
  • Hair Dryer
  • Iron & Ironing Board
  • A Desk, chairs, and nightstand
  • Flat-screen TV with Cable
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Refrigerator | Stove Range | Microwave

Note furniture may vary; each apartment is different.

Premium 1-Bedroom Apartment w/ Loft

$2,525

per person + tax

  • Fully Furnished 995 sq. ft. apartment
  • (Max: 4 persons)
  • 1 king bed and 2 twin beds or 1 Full Bed
  • Kitchenette
  • Balcony
  • Washer & Dryer
  • Hair Dryer
  • Iron & Ironing Board
  • A Desk, chairs, and nightstand
  • Flat-screen TV with Cable
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Refrigerator | Stove Range | Microwave

Note furniture may vary; each apartment is different.

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.