10 Dreamy Meditation Retreats for Your Most Relaxing Vacation Ever
Travelers are making meditation retreats increasingly popular. Wellness tourism is growing at twice the rate as the tourism industry overall, according to the Global Wellness Institute. Some of these trips last for a day, while others can span a week or more — and they’re often held at a meditation center or in nature, where attendees engage in mindfulness activities, sometimes in complete silence.
“This period of extended meditation practice gives you a chance to focus without the usual distractions or responsibilities of daily life,” says Ted Merriness, online program and community development manager for the University of Massachusetts Medical School’s Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society.
That doesn’t mean you spend your hours sitting cross-legged on a cushion. Instead, everything you do during the retreat — walking, eating, yoga, or hiking — is done mindfully. This constant state of mindfulness gives your body and mind the opportunity to experience its effects more deeply than shorter spurts do. “Common outcomes retreat ants experience are states of calm, reduction in tension, and a lower heart rate,” Merriness says.
Looking for some zen? Check out these top meditation retreats
. 1 Kadampa Meditation Center NY
If you’re a meditation newbie, this center in the Catskills of New York is for you. Kadampa Meditation Center NY offers a variety of personal or group retreats throughout the year, all held at the World Peach Temple just two hours outside of bustling New York City. Choose from 24-hour, weekend, or five-day beginner retreats that seek to help visitors find their inner peace.
2 Shambhala Mountain Center
Sitting on 600 acres of mountains, forests, meadows, and valleys, Shambhala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, is a nature lover’s delight. The center offers an array of mindfulness and retreat offerings — such as yoga, hiking, and workshops — and it also welcomes day visitors looking for a shorter burst of zen.
3 Rolling Meadows
Quiet the mind in the beautiful New England countryside at Rolling Meadows in Brooks, Maine. This center hosts small group retreats of up to 11 people. Expect to participate in yoga, shared meals, and unstructured “me” time where you can explore the landscape. The center also hosts international retreats in locations like Costa Rica and India.
4 Esalen
What better way to rejuvenate your soul than on the beautiful California coast? Esalen in Big Sur, California, offers workshops in yoga, meditation, dance, art, and more. There’s also a farm and garden that guests can volunteer at, or you can choose to zone out in its hot springs. And if you’re worried about trying to disconnect, don’t be — there’s no cell service.
5 Kripalu
Nestled in the Berkshires, Kripalu Yoga and Meditation Center in Stock bridge, Massachusetts, lets you create a retreat that’s just right for you. Choose from guided workshops or simply spend your days exploring the hiking trails, sweating it out in the fitness center and sauna, or floating in the lake.
6 Ala Kukui
At Ala Kukui in Maui, there’s a retreat for everyone. Opt for a wellness or family experience, or try their Hulu retreat, a cultural deep dive into Hawaii where participants engage in spiritual activities and learn traditions like lei making. You can also customize your visit and fill your time with everything from yoga to reiki to massage therapy and even life coaching. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
7 Simple Peace Retreats
Visitors have visited Simple Peace Retreats in Assisi, Italy, since 1985. Guests engage in yoga, meditation, meditative walks, and soak in ancient baths — and while trips to sacred sites are offered, the retreats cater to all faiths
. 8 Spirit Rock
Whether you’re looking to unwind for a day, a week, or even a couple months, Spirit Rock in West Marin County, California, has something for every type of schedule. What sets this meditation center apart is that most retreats are held in silence.
9 The Raj
The Raj is an Ayurvedic health center in Fairfield, Iowa, that’s known for its award-winning healing programs. There’s a five-day retreat focused on the practice of transcendental meditation, but visitors can also choose more general packages that provide on a variety of wellness offerings.
10 Feathered Pipe Ranch
If sleeping in a tipi is on your bucket list, book a retreat at Feathered Pipe Ranch in Helena, Montana. Guests can stay in tips, cabins, or yurts while they unplug
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12 Yoga Retreats Near Delhi Which You Should Definitely Visit In 2020!
Originated in India, yoga has gained prominence all around the globe due to its benefits like enhanced well-being and improved control of both body and mind. Yoga not only includes physical practice but it is a blend of all practices and principles including mental and spiritual. Different breathing techniques, meditation, and physical postures are required to do yoga effectively. Due to the fast-paced and inactive lifestyle, the working population has started to opt for yoga as a physical exercise. This has led to the establishment of several yoga retreats near Delhi, catering to the requirements of yoga enthusiasts. If you are looking for some inner peace and better health yourself, then don’t forget to check out these places.
11 Best Yoga Retreats Near New Delhi
There are several associated benefits of yoga if performed correctly and regularly. Some of them are increased flexibility, improved muscle strength, weight reduction, better cardio health and many more. We have shortlisted 11 best yoga retreats near New Delhi where you can gain both physical and psychological benefits of yoga. Note them down
1. Amatra By The Ganges
Situated on the banks of the river Ganga, Amatra is a luxury hotel popular for spa, yoga, and wellness in Haridwar. Its a luxury yoga retreats near Delhi where one can take closer glimpse of nature as it is located amidst lush greenery. You can pamper yourself here by indulging in spa treatments also. Apart from this, as Rishikesh is famous for river rafting, you can also opt for water activities and treat the adventurous enthusiast in yourself. This abode is counted as one of the nearest yoga retreats near Delhi as it can be reached by driving for 4-5 hours only.
2. Ananda In The Himalayas
This place is among st the best Ayurveda retreats near Delhi which is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Ananda is not at all far from Rishikesh and Haridwar. A retreat to this place is blissful as it reformulates the manner of living through the wellness regimes of Yoga coupled with Ayurveda. The center is stretched over a huge area of 24,000 sq.ft. where you can get access to personalized therapies so as to detoxify and de-stress your body. Besides this, Ananda also provides other facilities and amenities like a Golf Course, white water rafting, gymnasium and many more. Depending on the number of breaks you take, it takes 5-8 hours to cover the distance and thus it is considered one of the top yoga retreats near Delhi India.
3. Neemrana Fort-Palace
Neemrana Fort-Palace is one of the well-known and oldest spa resorts near Delhi. Sprawled over 25 acres of land, the fort has gained popularity due to its strategic location and world-class amenities. For the wellness of mind, soul and body, the Palace not only offers rejuvenating spa treatments but also provides both outdoor and indoor yoga and meditation sessions. This place is settled in between Jaipur and Delhi which makes is easily accessible for people living nearby. If you want to explore one of the best yoga retreats around Delhi, then this should be top on your list.
4. Wildflower Hall
Wildflower Hall, by the Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, is spread over 23 acres in a cedar forest in Shimla and is one of the best yoga retreats near New Delhi, India. The Hotel provides an extensive variety of massages, Ayurvedic treatments, yoga sessions, and spa therapies. Imagine yourself practicing yoga amidst the Himalayas in the fresh air. I know you want to go there as soon as possible. Moreover, this place is easily accessible through road and takes a 9 hours drive, whereas trains from Delhi to Kalka take 5 hours.
5. The Terraces
Equipped with some luxuries and located at an altitude of 8,500 ft., The Terraces provides a peaceful view of the Garhwal Himalayas. If you are looking for an unspoiled place for a summer retreat along with yoga sessions then this is the place to be. It has an in-house spa where you can pamper yourself by booking an exclusive treatment. You can also heighten your senses by indulging in yoga and meditation here. Considered as one of the famous yoga retreats close to Delhi, this place is easily accessible for common people as it takes only 6 hours to drive from the capital city.
6. Heritage Village Resort & Spa
This four-star property is indeed one of the best spa resorts and yoga retreats in India. Tucked in Manesar, this Havel-Resort has well-equipped suites along with elaborated dinner options and amenities. Not only this, but it also holds yoga, meditation and spa sessions for its guests to enliven their souls and rejuvenate their bodies. This place is perfect for people who are seeking for a yoga retreat near Delhi.
7. House Of Kapaali
Situated amidst the verdant greens of Greater Noida, House of Kapaali is just a couple of hours drive away from Delhi and is one of the best yoga retreats close to Delhi. Established by two sisters, this place welcomes guests to its health and wellness sanctuary. They regularly host yoga & meditation retreats along with spiritual workshops that are attended by numerous people. House of Kapaali is the perfect destination for a yoga retreat near Delhi. So, if you want to beat the heat of this summer and want to cool your body, then go to this place and perform some asanas.
8. Awaken Inner Buddha Yoga
This amazing yoga and meditation organization purveys learning sessions and therapies in more than 30 countries. The New Delhi center offers numerous services such as a 2, 5 hours yoga & meditation class, a half-day yoga & meditation workshop, Reiki, Transcendental, Healing Massage, and Life Transforming therapies. This spot is a perfect escape for someone seeking an interesting yoga session and reviving therapies to unwind the stressful city life. You just need to book a session in advance before visiting this amazing yoga center located in South Delhi for a reviving experience.
9. AumYogaShala
This is a stunning yoga spot near Delhi where one can master numerous yoga formations namely, Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Flow Yoga. They also offer separate sessions for kids and budding yoga teachers. One can visit the place for regular yoga classes. You can pay here for each session or can book a complete package, as this spot is an amazing retreat for yoga lovers.
10. Studio Yogashayan
This is an organization that provides the best of ancient and authentic yogic knowledge with a blend of modern practices and understanding. It is quite a lively place ensuring an exciting yogic lifestyle. You can hop in for regular classes or exclusive workshops where one can spend peaceful and illuminating hours. This spot will also make you learn some rare positions of yoga derived from the ancient texts.
11. Hitch Yoga
Hith Yoga is among the amazing yoga retreats near Delhi, India; that has been working to guide people to lead a healthy and happy life. One can improve their daily habits and lifestyle by following their unique ways of yoga. The environment here creates a conducive environment for the internal growth of the individuals. This spot is an interesting escape for people with a busy work schedule.
12. Sattva Retreat
For all those looking out to calm their soul and let spirituality heal and transform them, Sattva Retreat is the best place to be at. Situated in Rishikesh this yoga retreat focuses on all aspects of Hatha yoga and offers special facilities for the guests and you can also enjoy an ayurvedic spa here and a nutritious vegetarian diet is another added bonus
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Spirituality is not synonymous with religion, that’s one thing we should all know straight off the boat. Having said that, adopting a more spiritual outlook on life, whether it’s based on the teachings of Mirra Alfasa or Osho, can lead to a range of benefits, especially for the mind, body and consciousness. If you think you need to get away and find a different kind of inner peace to the one you drink on the weekends, maybe you should give these places a visit.
1. Sivananda, Kerala
Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram is set in a beautiful environment, inclusive of the lush greenery and gentle waters that are synonymous with Kerala. Everyone is expected to stay silent from 7.30 am to 10.30 pm and to attend morning and evening satsangs.
2. Vipassana International Academy, Nashik
This center is also known as ‘Dhamma Giri: Hill of Dhamma’ and is said to be the principle center of Vipassana meditation in the world. Apart from the stringently followed rule of complete silence, it also demands abstinence from sex and intoxicants. The days start at 4 am and the course, which last for around 10 days, is said to rid one of craving, unhappiness and ignorance.
3. Osho International Meditation Resort, Pune
One of the most recognizable places on the list, the black marble of the Osho International Meditation Resort in Pune is said to be place where the mind, body and soul can string together as one. They have 10 meditation sessions every day, starting at 6am. It’s also pretty luxurious, with a pool, spa, gym, cyber café, tennis courts and three dining areas. Maroon and white robes abound.
4. Auroville, Pondicherry
Auroville, based on the philosophic of Mirra Alfasa and Sri Aurobindo, is a multicultural forested township. It believes in a sustainable community where every inhabitant contributes to its welfare. The looming golden Matrimandir sits at the center, signifying the birth of a new consciousness. It’s dedicated to the ideal of human unity.
5. The Art of Living International Center, Bangalore
Founded by the now-maligned Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, this center is built around the Vishalakshi Man-tap, and focuses on encouraging spiritual growth and happiness through the path of the art of living tenets and sutras. The day begins with yoga, meditation, volunatry service and ends with music and dance.
6. Krishnamurti Foundation, Chennai
Based on the teachings of J. Krishnamurti, the Krishnamurti Foundation in Chennai is dedicated to study and the idea of setting man absolutely and unconditionally free. It’s set over a sprawling 6.5 acres of lush greens, an ideal setting for spiritual betterment.
7. Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh
Set along the banks of the Ganga, this ashram was founded in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj and is the largest ashram in Rishikesh. The daily activities include yoga, morning universal prayers and meditation classes, daily sat-sang and lecture programs, kirtan, and a world-renowned Ganga aarti at sunset.
8. Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore
Located in the scenic greens of the Velliangiri Mountains, a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and its chief patron is Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. There’s 4 kinds of yoga offered here—kriya (energy), gnana (knowledge), karma (action) and bhakti (devotion). The center houses the Spanda Hall and garden and a 64,000 sq. ft. meditation hall, apart from other facilities.
9. Root Institute, Bihar
From October to April, Root Institute offers introductory and intermediate courses and retreats covering a wide range of Buddhist topics. Located in the holy land of Bodhgaya, the place got its name from its founder Lama Thubten Yeshe, who considered this place to be the root from which the branches emerged to the rest of the world.
10. Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation, Delhi
The legendary Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Transcendental Meditation philosophy doesn’t have any links to religion as such, and believes more in the workings of the soul and consciousness. The aim is to reach the deepest state of awareness that will lead to inner peace, and sessions usually last for around 2 to 5 days.
11. Blue Mango Retreats, Spiti Valley
Also known as the highest spiritual retreat in the world, Blue Mango is perfectly located to provide peace and seclusion within the stunning vista of the high Himalayas. offers a six day spiritual and meditation retreat that promises a mental, emotional, and spiritual detox that is designed to raise consciousness, self-awareness and reduce stress.