GREETINGS FROM SOHUM RESORT!

Greetings from North Carolina! Eberhard and I are currently having an incredible time at the SoHum Mountain Healing Resort, indulging in a rejuvenating Ayurveda Retreat. This hidden gem, formerly known as Sourwood Inn, is nestled in the lush forests of Elk Mountain, near Asheville. Founded by a team of Ayurvedic Practitioners and guided by the esteemed Dr. Lad (who has also established a new school and clinic in Asheville), the resort has been lovingly crafted and cared for with boundless creativity.   ​

Sourwood Inn House

One of the highlights of our retreat has been the opportunity to stroll along the enchanting paths that wind through a beautiful pocket of nature. It's such a refreshing experience to connect with the natural surroundings.

After returning from Albuquerque, NM a decade ago, we mainly practiced our semi-annual PK, Ayurvedic Cleanse, at home. However, after this long period, we felt a strong desire to seek a consultation with Dr. Lad and visit my former Ayurveda classmate, Harish. So, we decided to book our stay at SoHum, and we're absolutely delighted that we did!

​PANCHA KARMA!
​As you may recall from my previous Yoga and Ayurvedic Cleanse Workshops, Pancha Karma is an effective regimen for cleansing the body from the inside out. To prepare for the retreat, we began with a week of Kitchari-like foods. Our journey to North Carolina began, and we were pleasantly surprised by the culinary creativity at SoHum! The chef goes above and beyond, not only serving delicious Kitchari, but also delighting us with Ayurvedic-inspired menus that feature fresh herbs, incredible sauces, and artistic presentations that rival a la carte de Paris! Each day, we were treated to a new meal that maintained the cleansing effects required for Pancha Karma. And to our delight, even a small piece of chocolate awaited us in our spacious and beautiful room, ensuring that all six tastes were included. What a delightful touch!

Another aspect that caught my attention was the sattvic (serene) atmosphere of the kitchen. It exuded a calmness and tranquility, with the chef serving each dish with a smile, showing genuine care and ease. It truly enhanced the overall experience!
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In addition to the gourmet meals, we indulged in our daily "Whole Body Serenity" routine, which included Abhyanga, an oil massage, followed by a visit to the sweat box, then Siro Dhara, where a continuous warm stream of oil cascaded onto our foreheads, calming the nervous system and supporting the flow of energy to the Ajna Chakra. Needless to say, I often found myself dozing off in bliss! Furthermore, my dry eyes received the healing touch of Netra Basti, an oil bath, and I'm amazed at how refreshed and revitalized they feel. Even my floaters have diminished in size!

We also had the privilege of seeing Dr. Lad and receiving his advice. We had daily check-ups with a warm and caring Ayurvedic Practitioner, and enjoyed experiencing treatments like Janu Basti for aching knees, Prushta Basti for the spine, and many other Ayurvedic therapies aimed at promoting holistic well-being.

One of the memorable daily rituals we enjoyed was the Sunrise Ritual Homa, also known as Agnihotra, a beautiful fire ceremony infused with herbs and intentions. And of course, there were daily practices of Pranayama, Yoga sessions, enlightening lectures on living wisdom and nutrition, invigorating Forest Bathing, calming winding-down rituals, chanting, and ceremonies.

What truly made our stay exceptional was the genuine care, support, and authenticity exuded by everyone at SoHum Resort. We have formed beautiful connections and gained new friends along this transformative journey.
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With much Love, Hannelore