Meditation is hot, and the connection among the mental, emotional and physical challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and a surge of interest in the practice is clear. Still, the benefits of meditation are not news to local therapists, practitioners and teachers.
Local centers report that the silent meditation retreat business is booming. Ranging from a single day to a full two weeks off the grid, the retreats eliminate unnecessary external stimulation by emphasizing meditation, maintaining an inward focus — and, yes, disconnecting from all tech devices.
Asheville-area meditation instructors offer tips for starting a meditation practice, discuss common misconceptions about meditation and explore its health benefits.
A day-long mindfulness retreat will be held at Asheville Insight Meditation on Saturday, June 27. The retreat will explore mindfulness for “health, wellness, recovery and freedom from suffering,” says clinical psychologist Larry Cammarata, co-host of the retreat with Eddie LeShure, owner of Mindful Emergence.
