This year has been A LOT. We’re confident even the Zen masters have been left reeling by the challenges and crises 2020 has thrown at us. For the perfect antidote to recover from the stress, anxiety, and uncertainty of our new normal, make your next travel adventure a trip to a healing wellness retreat. Here’s our round-up of the top meditation retreats in the U.S. that promise to bring you back to bliss.
The Art of Meditation
The ancient healing practice of meditation has a host of science-backed health and wellness benefits like improved mental health and clarity, better sleep, increased energy, and overall feelings of calm and contentment. So in the name of self-care and self-love, make the commitment to check into these luxe retreats to unwind, reset and recharge in the beauty and tranquility of nature.
The Ranch Malibu, California
A luxury health, wellness, and meditation retreat, The Ranch Malibu is a sacred place designed for personal awareness and life transformation. Nested on 200 acres in the Santa Monica Mountains above the Pacific Ocean, there’s 19 private cottages which feel more like sanctuaries, no television or cell phone use and the design is rustic with earthy reclaimed wood flooring and calming neutral linens.
Reclaim your zen: Retreat packages range from one to four weeks and are an invigorating daily schedule of yoga, meditation classes, four hour hiking excursions, massage, sound bath all fuel by an organic plant based menu. The nutrient rich diet is important for fueling active days and promoting weight loss. In order to maximize the onsite experience guests are encouraged to follow a 30 day healthy living program prior to arrival.
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
This luxury estate in the Great Smoky Mountain is a secluded nature retreat to escape and unwind. Known for its farm-to-table dining, nature-focused activities, and panoramic Smoky Mountain views, Blackberry Farm is also on Travel Curator’s list of beautiful National Park Hotels you have to see to believe.
Reclaim your zen: The mediation line-up includes one-on-one guided meditation classes in the rustic Well House, as well as outdoor Deep Healing Woods meditations, or Shin-rin Yoku, which promise accelerated healing and increased mental focus. For wellness, there’s signature massage and facial treatments and lectures on topics like juicing and aromatherapy so you continue to enjoy the benefits of Blackberry Farm at home.
Castle Hot Springs, Arizona
Arizona’s first wellness resort, Castle Hot Springs is a historical icon found in the remote desert of the Bradshaw Mountains. Just driving the long dusty Senora desert road to get there will take you on the path to tranquility. A desert oasis of mid-century bungalows, highlights include natural hot springs, pools, and private soak tubs in each room with water piped directly from the springs themselves. Brave the 200ft suspension bridge above the canyon or lounge in one of the three hot spring pools until your heart’s content.
Reclaim your zen: There’s yoga and meditation as well as farm tours, guided hikes and holistic practices like Tai Chi and Qigong led by knowledgeable instructors.
Golden Door, California
An oasis of healing and serenity in the valley between San Diego and Los Angeles, the Golden Door regularly ranks as one of the top luxury wellness retreats in the US and globally. Reconnecting with your inner self is the mantra here and your personal health goals are assessed prior to your arrival and a daily schedule is delivered to your door each evening. Mountain hikes, pilates, and blindfolded pottery classes are just a few of the activities meant to encourage you to move beyond your comfort zone.
Reclaim your zen: Try biofeedback, a holistic treatment where patients learn to control bodily processes that are normally involuntary, such as muscle tension, or heart rate. Chakra meditation, zen rock gardens, healing breathing and archery is also the restorative wellness menu.
