The Meditation Retreat

Sahaj Samadhi Meditation
TWICE MONTHLY | Art of Living Faculty
From
$695 Fri–Sun
meditation hero282

The Meditation Retreat

Retreat Type
Art of LivingArt of Living
Meditation & MindfulnessMeditation & Mindfulness
Must Be 18+Must Be 18+
Retreat Goals
Calm & Clear MindCalm & Clear Mind
Relieve StressRelieve Stress

Calm body and mind—effortlessly.

Do you wonder what prevents you from living each moment fully and with joy? Do you often feel that your mind is too busy, too tired or too overwhelmed by thoughts? Is that “monkey mind” causing insomnia, anger, depression, physical tension, or any of the other hosts of symptoms and diseases related to anxiety and chronic stress? You need a meditation retreat. The simple, powerful technique of meditation can effortlessly calm the mind, boost immunity, and decrease the physical and psychological stressors you’re experiencing.

Meditation Retreats Create Lifelong Habits

Anyone can learn to meditate. The key to success is a powerful technique, experienced guidance, and practice. Our signature Meditation Retreat offers all of this—and more. You’ll work with an experienced teacher to learn a technique you can easily use at home (or any where you may be, at any time), and receive individual guidance during those critical first few days of practice. You’ll learn to

  • Slow down, rest, and get centered
  • Recharge your energy and enthusiasm
  • Build resilience and use tools to deal with bad times
  • Tune in to your true self and life purpose.

Connect to the Source

In Sanskrit, Sahaj means effortless. Samadhi is meditation—a natural state beyond waking, sleeping, and dreaming that is an unlimited reservoir of energy, intelligence and creative power and a place of infinite peace and tranquility. The practice of Sahaj Samadhi meditation brings these qualities of increased energy, clarity, joy, and deep inner peace into our daily experience.

Anyone can learn Sahaj Samadhi Meditation, and become fully proficient with just a few hours of training. The benefits are rapid, tangible, and cumulative, and the practice itself is relaxing and enjoyable.

Pre-requisite: 18 years of age or older

Play Video

Research

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Sahaj Researchers from Western University Department of Psychiatry won the top award from 17th World Psychiatry Congress in Berlin. Learn more about this award and Sahaj Samadhi Meditation research.

Meditation Retreat Features

Meditation Retreat Schedule

Please note, because we want to ensure you get the full experience, attending all of these sessions is important, so make your travel plans accordingly.

Subject to change.

Day 1
Session 1  7:30–9:00 pm

Day 2
Session 2  7:30–8:30 am Morning Yoga
Session 3  10:30 am–12:30 pm 
Session 4 5:15–6:00 pm Session

Day 3

Session 5  7:30–8:30 am Morning Yoga
Session 6 10:30 am–12:30 pm

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES 
Guided nature walks, Ayurveda cooking demos, pottery classes, and other on-campus activities can be booked at Reception upon arrival.

Mealtimes

7:30–9:30 am Breakfast
12:00–2:00 pm Lunch (included on your departure day)
6:00–7:30 pm Dinner

  • Charlotte (CLT) is the closest airport to fly into.
  • From CLT to Boone is a 2-hour ride; book your travel accordingly.
  • Check-in is 3:00 pm on the day your program starts; dinner is included on this day.
  • The program ends at 1:00 pm on the last day. Lunch is included on your final day. Book your return flight anytime from 5:00 pm onward, keeping the commute and course sessions in mind.
Options for Transportation between CLT and AOLRC
Name Phone No. Website
Hickory Hop Shuttle Service 828.327.2340 hickoryhop.com
High Country Limo 828.898.9595 highcountrylimo.com
High Country Black Car 828.387.1977 highcountryblackcarservice.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 on the app on arrival.

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.

Presenters

Art of Living Retreat Center

Art of Living Faculty

Art of Living faculty are teachers from all over the world who integrate their passion for teaching with a dedication to service of others. Inspired by their own personal experiences of transformation and joy, our teachers blend ancient, timeless wisdom with contemporary approaches to well-being to bring you a heart-based approach rooted in the authentic, effective techniques of Ayurveda, meditation, and breathwork—the very best of health and wellness.

Rooms & Pricing for On-Campus Events

Private Hotel Room

$885 Weds–Fri | $985 Fri-Sun

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)

$745 Weds–Fri | $845 Fri-Sun

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

$745 Weds–Fri | $846 Fri-Sun

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)

$665 Weds-Fri | $765 Fri–Sun

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)

per person + tax

$595 Weds–Fri | $695 Fri–Sun
  • 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

$1,195 Weds–Friday | $1,195 Fri–Sun

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

$1,335 Weds-Fri | $1,335 Fri–Sun

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.

Reviews

Nathan S.
Program Participant
Read More
This has been a very emotional and life-changing experience for me. As a veteran of combat and seeing a lot of death, it has given me happiness and a hope for long-term happiness.
Carsten L.
Program Participant
Read More
Very clear that the faculty is passionate about what they are doing and helping people.
Lorrin F.
Program Participant
Read More
This was my introduction to meditation. It was very easy to understand and practice. The teachers were compassionate and instructive without showing any judgment.
Diane Y.
Program Participant
Read More
Both instructors and the program were highly effective for me and I am inspired to make this change in my life
Kelly G.
Program Participant
Read More
I learned a lot from this program. Our instructor was knowledgible and program length was good for a weekend retreat.
Alandra M.
Program Participant
Read More
The faculty were extremely knowledgeable in the practice and expert at presenting the material. Very relaxing and enjoyable.
Kristin O.
Program Participant
Read More
Program was very peaceful and helpful, especially since I had no experience meditating. It was better than expected for a beginner.
Gunjan M.
Program Participant
Read More
Experienced a heart felt program that gently guided me in going deeper into my meditation practice. Thank you!
Susan S.
Program Participate
Read More
This program was life-changing!
Tiffany C.
Program Participant
Read More
This has taught me how to breathe and deal with the stress of life. I can't wait to apply the techniques I learned.
Previous
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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.

A Retreat in the Mountains

During your stay, you have time for personal R & R also. Whether you want to explore forest trails and bask in the fresh mountain air, enjoy a pottery or watercolor painting class, release stress with a therapeutic spa treatment, the choice is yours. (Additional fees may apply.)

Make Your Retreat Extra Special

Combine your retreat with authentic Ayurveda for rejuvenation on all levels, body, mind and spirit. The recommended Ayurveda treatment for this retreat is an Abhyanga massage (“Abby” for short), followed by a relaxing steam to further release stress.

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

From
$695 Fri–Sun
Register

Art of Living Retreat Center

Google Reviews

695 Reviews
4.9/5
- Leslie E.
Read More
"If you want to relax, recharge, and find yourself again, this is the place!"
- Vasily T.
Read More
"A magnificent place for a refreshing retreat. So peaceful and close to nature as it can be."
- Becca N.
Read More
"Excellent food, spa, tons of activities outside of program warm environment for growth Thank you!"
- Rob H.
Read More
"The techniques I learned here have literally transformed my life."
- Michelle L.
Read More
"Excellent program, beautiful surroundings. Wonderful setting for deep connection & reset."
- Dan V.
Read More
"I did not know what to expect. I am very pleased with what I have learned and excited to bring back home."
- Bonnie M.
Read More
"Beautiful grounds with wonderful, genuinely loving instructors. This was a life changing experience!"
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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