In today’s busy world, the quest for wellness often leads us back to our roots. For me, as an Indian American, embracing ancient wellness practices like Ayurveda and yoga offers not only healing but also a heartfelt connection to my cultural heritage.
On my most recent trip to India, I experienced a few different Indian wellness therapies. Once I got back home to Los Angeles, I started to seek similiar experiences here in the USA. This is what motivated me to write this article.
If something about Indian culture, rituals and spirituality excites you, you may want to consider this list of Indian-inspired wellness retreats and Ayurvedic spas across the United States where you can enjoy authentic experiences.
This is an all-inclusive resort in the mountains. A coffee shop/cafe, a garden, and a playground are just a few of the amenities provided at Art of Living Retreat Center. Indulge in a body treatment, a massage, and a facial at Shankara Ayurveda Spa, the onsite spa. The on-site vegetarian cuisine buffet restaurant, Vegetarian Dining Hall, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Yoga classes are offered at the gym; other things to do include hiking/biking.
Surrounded by the breathtaking Sonoran Desert, CIVANA provides a peaceful setting for those looking to integrate Ayurveda into their wellness routine. This resort partners with Chopra Global to offer a wellness program with world-renowed health expert, Dr. Deepak Chopra. They host this retreat twice monthly, along with other spa offerings.
Situated in the Catskills Mountains in Monticello, New York, YO1 Longevity & Health Resorts offers guests the fresh air and serenity needed to make the profound changes in their lives that they are seeking. Their wellness center features Naturopathic, Ayurvedic therapies, Yoga and curated massages.
Named #1 best destination spa by Travel + Leisure Readers' World Best Awards 2024, this Wisconsin spa offers many traditional and new-age therapies - From Shirodhara and Marma energy to gemstone and meditative reflexology treatments. Their list of wellness activities include different forms of yoga, sound baths and breath work.
The Kripalu Retreat & Renewal experience allows you the freedom to choose what you need. Maybe it’s a full schedule of yoga classes, healing arts, and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Maybe free time for reflection and rest. This center offers a self-guided 3-day experience with accommodation, healthy meals, and daily classes in meditation, sound healing, Ayurveda, self-care and posture workshops, yoga dance, and mindfulness, etc.
At The Raj, you’ll find an authentic Ayurvedic sanctuary that feels like stepping into India itself. With expert practitioners, each in-residence program is tailored to individual needs, from customized therapeutic massages to personalized dietary recommendations. The Raj is the only facility outside of India specifically built to offer the traditional Ayurvedic purification treatments, known as Panchakarma. Located on 100 acres of rolling meadows and woodlands in Iowa’s heartland, The Raj offers an ideal environment to rejuvenate.
In the heart of Grass Valley, CA, Sivananda Ashram offers a disciplined yet nurturing environment where yoga and Ayurveda are a way of life. Experience warm herbal oil massages and partake in educational sessions on Ayurvedic nutrition. The community aspect of this retreat makes it feel like a second family, creating lasting connections with like-minded individuals on the path to wellness. Consider a Yoga Vacation, ayurvedic and holistic health retreats. They have also recently opened a Los Angeles location.
Known for its luxurious amenities and extensive wellness offerings, Canyon Ranch seamlessly integrates Ayurvedic treatments into its expansive menu. Here, you can indulge in personalized wellness programs that include traditional therapies alongside fitness activities and nutrition consultations. It’s a holistic retreat designed to inspire a healthier lifestyle while enveloping you in comfort.
At Miraval, wellness is an immersive experience where ancient and modern intersect. At their Life in Balance spa, they integrate modalities from Tibet, India, Europe, China and other global cultures. From Acupuncture to Vasudhara, Thai Massage to Crystal Energy Work, healing arts combine ancient traditions with time-honored techniques. Miraval organizes its offerings into journey types, a great starting point to figure out where your journey begins.