The Art of Living
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PAUL SELIG

The Upper Room

Annual Summer Retreat

August 10-15, 2026

Guest Presenter
Spirituality
2-Night/3-Day Program
July 9-12, 2026
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Shamanism & Herbalism

Teaching from Plant and Animal Medicines

Matthew Wood

Discover the Hidden Language of Nature

Discover the transformative wisdom of shamanism and herbalism in a retreat that reconnects you with the profound teachings of plants, animals, and the natural world. Guided by renowned herbalist and educator Matthew Wood, this experiential journey blends ancient traditions with modern understanding, offering you tools to awaken your spiritual path, deepen self-awareness, and unlock the healing power of nature. Learn to listen to the language of nature, explore plant and animal medicines, and rediscover your connection to the living world around you.

July 9-12, 2026
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Starting at $340 (Tuition) + $924 (Lodging + Meals) plus tax

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Reserve Your Spot Now

July 9-12, 2026
REGISTER NOW

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

Retreat Benefits

Deep Spiritual Insights

Gain a greater understanding of shamanism as a spiritual path.

Intuitive Healing Skills

Develop techniques to attune with nature for personal and collective healing.

Practical Herbal Knowledge

Learn how to use herbs for self-discovery and holistic well-being.

Cultural Awareness

Uncover linguistic and cultural biases that distance us from nature’s truths and hinder spiritual connection.

Plant & Animal Wisdom

Learn how to harness non-hallucinogenic plant and animal medicines for self-awareness and spiritual growth.

Nature-Based Integration

Walk away with actionable tools to integrate nature’s wisdom into your life.

What to Expect

Awaken Inner Wisdom Through Nature’s Teachings

Dive into a transformative weekend where experiential learning meets profound spiritual exploration. Through plant journeying, shamanic stories, and reflective practices, you’ll gain tools to uncover personal biases, deepen your understanding of nature-based spirituality, and align with the wisdom of the natural world. Walk away with practical techniques for self-care, a renewed connection to your spiritual path, and a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all life.

1. Shamanic Storytelling

Learn through the power of traditional stories that reveal deeper truths.

2. Guided Plant Journeying

Practice TNT with other participants, gaining real-time experience in angelic energy work.

3. Herb Walks (Weather Permitting)

Explore the landscape to identify and connect with medicinal plants in their natural habitat.

4. Meditation in Nature

Ground yourself with mindfulness practices surrounded by the beauty of the natural world.

Disclaimer: Information shared during this retreat is offered for educational purposes only. The views, opinions, teachings, recommendations, and methodologies expressed by guest presenters are solely their own, do not constitute medical advice, and do not necessarily reflect those of the Art of Living Retreat Center. Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider regarding medical concerns or before making changes to your health routine.

Reserve Your Spot Now

July 9-12, 2026
REGISTER NOW

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

Program Schedule

Check-in Begins 4:00 pm

Dinner 6:00–7:00 pm

Property Orientation 7:00–7:20 pm

Session 1 7:30–9:00 pm

Breakfast 7:30–9:00 am

Session 2 9:30 am–12:30 pm

Lunch 12:30–1:30 pm

Session 3 2:00–4:00 pm

Free Time 4:00–6:00 pm

Dinner 6:00–7:30 pm

Session 4 7:30–9:00 pm

Breakfast 7:30–9:00 am

Session 5 9:30 am–12:30 pm

Lunch 12:30–1:30 pm

Session 6 2:00–4:00 pm

Free Time 4:00–6:00 pm

Dinner 6:00–7:30 pm

Breakfast 7:30–9:00 am

Session 7 9:30–11:30 am

Room Checkout 11:00 am Luggage may be held at Reception.

Lunch 12:00–1:30 pm

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

Optional activities include
Yoga • Meditation • Kirtan • Bonfire • Labyrinth • Nature Trails

Matthew's teaching is just the best and feels like coming home.

—Sonny S. (Past Participant)

I've worked in the herbal field in TCM and Tibetan medicine for 30 years. Matthew Wood's program is an excellent introduction to traditional herbal practice with many unique perspectives not found in any other program.

—E.J. Coughlin AP, DOM (Past Participant)

This program is phenomenal. It's a must-take training.

—Piers W. (Past Participant)

There is no comparison. I could not be more proud to be attending Matthew's school and I would happily recommend it to anyone.

—Jennifer C. (Past Participant)

Matthew's stories help solidify the knowledge. He gives Herbalists like myself a jump up to get to know, retain and recall the plants spoken of. Thank you!

—Robin (Past Participant)

Meet the Presenter

Matthew Wood

Matthew Wood, MS, is a distinguished herbal health practitioner with nearly 45 years of experience helping thousands of individuals on their healing journeys. His approach blends intuitive problem-solving and hands-on experience, enriched by a master's degree in herbal medicine accredited by the University of Wales.

Learn More
Matthew Wood

Our Accommodations

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

Private Hotel Room

Ideal for individuals, couples, or friends seeking hotel-style comfort and amenities.

  • King bed or two queen beds
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Refrigerator
  • Private bath
  • Hair dryer
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Access to the coffee/tea lounge
  • Desk and office chair

Shared Hotel Room (2 People)

Ideal for friends seeking hotel-style comfort and amenities.

  • 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

Ideal for individuals, couples, or friends seeking simple surroundings for peace and clarity.

  • Twin beds
  • Private bath
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Access to the coffee/tea lounge
  • Desk and office chair

Note Room may contain extra single beds.

 

Premium 1Bedroom Apartment

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 a nightstand
  • Flat-screen TV with cable
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Refrigerator, stove range & microwave

Note Furniture may vary; each apartment is different.

 

Premium 1Bedroom Apartment with Loft

Fully furnished 995 sq.-ft. apartment (max: 4 persons)

  • 1 queen bed and 2 twin beds or 1 full bed
  • Kitchenette
  • Balcony
  • Washer & dryer
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron & ironing board
  • A desk, chairs, and a nightstand
  • Flat-screen TV with cable
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Refrigerator, stove range & microwave

Note Furniture may vary; each apartment is different.

 

Upgrade Options

Extend your Stay and Don’t Miss a Thing

Add a day and enjoy R&R activities!

Free activities include
Interactive Nature Hikes
Cooking Demos
Meditation & Movement Classes
Wellness Workshops

Paid activities include
Pottery Classes
Ayurvedic Wellness & Healing Arts Treatments

Learn More

Nourish Your Body

Take your rejuvenation to another level. Our spa offers treatments and therapies that integrate ancient Ayurveda with contemporary wellness.

Call to check availability during Shankara Ayurveda Spa business hours; seven days a week, 9:00 am–6:00 pm.

Learn More

Have questions?

We’re 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. You may email us at info@theartoflivingretreatcenter.kinsta.cloud.

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.

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.

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

July 9-12, 2026
REGISTER NOW

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