FEATURE IN GOOD SPIRITS CONNECTING WITH SELF, NATURE, AND COMMUNITY AT PENNSYLVANIA’S WELLNESS RETREATS By Erica Levi Zelinger Bring your awareness to your breath. Set an intention for your day. Look around and take in the view. Allow yourself an intermission, a hiatus to connect with the natural world. The last few years are a reminder of the transformative effects that both travel and mental wellbeing can have on us. For many, that means infusing self-care with sightseeing. The travelers of today are seeking purpose and connection. We find ourselves wanting more meaningful and conscientious travel experiences, where we can both nurture ourselves holistically and create a positive impact on the places we visit. This desire has resorts and retreats in Pennsylvania (many of which have long practiced spirituality, healing, and meditation, plus newcomers offering mountain air and minimalist luxury) ready to rouse guests with natural remedies and intentional wellness offerings. The Lodge at Woodloch Hawley Gather in a safe and sacred space at Duncannon’s Amethyst Retreat Center for New Moon circles, wellness retreats, nature programs, and day camps and participate in guided meditations, intention-setting rituals, and the celebration of coming together. You’ll find spiritual healing, calmness, a connection with nature, and a nurturing community featuring wholesome food, music, and movement. And, on the fourth Sunday of each month, take part in Amethyst’s free open houses where you can tour the property, participate in a guided workshop, stroll the nature trails and gardens, or perform optional community service work at the retreat house. Escape to a serene sanctuary surrounded by the beauty of the Pocono Mountains at The Lodge at Woodloch , a luxury spa resort with a 500-acre forested property and daily wellness and adventure activities. Here, nature is woven into your experience. Take in views of the forest as you nourish your body with gourmet organic dishes served at TREE Restaurant. Unwind at the spa with a detoxifying Lodge Body Ritual – Deep Forest, using local herbs and plants. Then tap into the stillness of nature (and your inner self) with a guided session of forest bathing. While there is no literal “bathing,” you do soak in the sights, sounds, and tranquility of nature during a contemplative walk, breathing exercises, and an intentional mind-body connection. This decreases your heart rate and stress-hormone production, resulting in a relaxed state of bliss. Amethyst Retreat Center Duncannon 50 visitPA.com LEFT TO RIGHT: ANDREA KILLAM PHOTOGRAPHY; AMETHYST FOUNDATION (DBA AMETHYST RETREAT CENTER)
Pennsylvania Happy Traveler Guide 2023: Page 50
