Came here for a weekend meditation retreat and gained exactly what I was seeking: peace,…read moretranquility and inspiration. The original building is almost 100 years old & the property is in definite need of improvement. But, that's actually the charm. Also, as a Buddhist interfaith organization, the cost is affordable, as most of the operations rely on Dana (generosity in Pali - the language of the Buddha). The idea is that the teachings are accessible to all. So don't let money be a deterrent from visiting. Each room has its own bathroom, so there's no need to share, which is unusual for a Buddhist meditation retreat center. They also provide all towels & sheets. You will need to bring your own toiletries. Also, I loved the "meditation pool" (the original swimming pool has been filled in) and took in the sun from one of the reclining chairs. They are also putting in an infrared sauna. And, you can walk down to the lake from their property in 2 minutes. Finally, be sure to attend a talk by the Venerable Pannavati. Each Sunday at 12 noon, there is a public talk. She's inspiring, kind and welcoming. I'll definitely be back!

Just spent a fabulous weekend at a retreat at Heartwood Refuge. The schedule was well-planned and…read moreexecuted, the staff warm and welcoming, and the lodging, grounds and vibe just beautiful. Will return soon; highly recommended.

Urban Dharma is a welcoming, fun spot. It is a Buddhist community center of sorts, with weekly…read moreclasses and 'drop in' sessions. Check it out!

I first came to Great Tree to meditate in 2010. Asheville is lucky to have a women's practice…read morecenter so nearby, which is unusual internationally. Great Tree offers Family Meditation once a month, which is wonderful, as well as retreats for children and mothers. There are monastics in residence, and the teacher Teijo Munnich, is a student of Katagiri Roshi's in the Soto Zen tradition. I have enjoyed practicing morning meditation and attending a Tuesday afternoon study group at Great Tree. The location is beautiful and peaceful, with gardens and located on a hilltop.

I really like this place. I have visited every Thursday that I am able to and will continue to do…read moreso as much as I can. The meditation instructions are easy to understand and the greater Shambhala philosophy is really great. Overall even if you are not into Buddhism I think it is worth a visit.

From the owner: The Shambhala Meditation Center of Asheville is part of an international community of urban…read moremeditation and rural retreat centers founded by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche and further developed by his son and lineage holder Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche. Shambhala vision is rooted in the contemplative teachings of Buddhism, yet is a fresh expression of the spiritual journey for our time. We offer the practice of meditation, the study of the Shambhala Buddhist teachings and a community dedicated to open-hearted interaction. Regular Drop-in Public Programs: * Thursday Evening Sitting 6-7pm * Sunday Morning Sitting and Chants 10am-12pm * Wednesday Evening Yoga 6-7pm * Young Adult Meditation Group 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 7-8:30pm * Pema Chodron Discussion Group 2nd and 4th Thursdays 7-8pm * 1st Thursdays Open House 6-7:30pm Free Meditation Instruction is available on Thursday evenings and Sunday Mornings. It is best to contact us ahead to insure an instructor is available.

I have been seeing Raymond since I moved here a year and a half ago. As his other reviewer said,…read morehe is a wonderful therapist and a wonderful person. He is by far the best practitioner I have found here and have gone to PT, chiropractor, and acupuncture. I always leave each session grateful.

I was the lucky beneficiary of Raymond's skills while he was training. A shiatsu skeptic, I watched…read morewith amazement as my insomnia and anxiety began to disappear, and also enjoyed my wonderful post-shiatsu naps (even googling to confirm the connection). So shiatsu is wonderful and effective. But I really can't say enough good things about Raymond as a person and shiatsu therapist. He is kind, professional, and completely non-judgmental. His attitude is just as healing as his technical skills, which are considerable. I just wish he still lived in Illinois.

Mountain Mindfulness Sangha is a Buddhist community in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh and Plum…read moreVillage. They offer weekly meditation practices in West Asheville, Days of Mindfulness, and Retreats.