Ways to Wellness in NC: Retreats, Spas and Forest Bathing
Lost your zen? Reconnect with nature on a forest walk, say “aah” at a spa or take a whole weekend to recharge.
About the Author
Ginger Crichton
Ginger is a Contributing Editor for People Inc. Travel Content. A Virginia native, she has vacationed with her extended family in NC for more than 30 years.
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Lost your zen? Reconnect with nature on a forest walk, say “aah” at a spa or take a whole weekend to recharge.
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Featured by: Juneberry Ridge
Juneberry Ridge
Juneberry Ridge
Norwood
Research has shown what many have always known — time spent immersed in nature is good for us. Enter: Juneberry Ridge, where the farm’s two- or three-night stays offer a high-end, all-inclusive retreat experience. With every detail planned, you’re free to relax, dine on farm-fresh meals, and take part in wellness activities like yoga and forest bathing. And with 750 acres of grounds, that’s a lot of forest to bathe in.
Bed and breakfast rooms give guests a sample of life in this health-focused community. Try yoga, Tai Chi or one of the family-friendly offerings; schedule a fulfilling session with a holistic health practitioner; or hike by White Oak Creek in the Stewardship Forest.
The Blue Ridge Mountains form a peaceful backdrop for getaways focused on yoga, nutrition, creativity, meditation and the Ayurvedic lifestyle (holistic healing rooted in India). Choose from themes such as The Happiness Retreat and The Silent Meditation Retreat.
Expect vegetarian meals, juice cleansing, meditation, yoga and spa treatments during multiday retreats at this center on 150 acres in the forest. Reserve a bright, cozy private room or share a dorm room with new friends. Get to know them better in the community dining area.
Mindful treks among trees can be good for body, mind and soul. And when you’re with Mark Ellison, a walk in the woods is much more than a pleasant stroll. It’s a chance to practice the Japanese notion of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) — a concept he helped bring to the US and now practices at Pinnacle Park in Sylva. Ellison guides 2.5-hour forest bathing experiences along the state’s first Certified Forest Therapy Trail. The 0.5-mile treks within the park are all about relaxing and focusing on nature with your senses.
Two- and three-bedroom units give you plenty of space to enjoy all the amenities: views over Albemarle Sound, a private balcony and full kitchen. Create your own wellness itinerary relaxing in the pool, by the firepit and along the waterfront.
Earth-tone decor and art set a serene scene. The Warm Ginger Vanilla Soothing Wrap comes with access to the pools, fitness center, steam room and hot tub.
Indulge in a wide selection of massages, therapies or salon offerings and enjoy all-day access to the pool, sauna and eucalyptus steam room at this destination day spa.
