About

Isha Foundation's US center, the Isha Institute of Inner-sciences, is a breathtaking mountain retreat providing stress relief, rejuvenation and outdoor recreation just 45 minutes outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee, on the spectacular Cumberland Plateau. The retreat is a world-class yoga center offering classical yoga and meditation classes from beginner to advanced levels. Guests journey from around the globe to visit this unique destination to relax, reflect, and reconnect with nature in this tranquil, idyllic setting.

Drop-by for a Day Visit--The Isha retreat center offers campus tours daily that include light hikes to one of many beautiful bluff vistas or waterfalls and a visit inside the largest yoga and meditation hall in the western hemisphere (39,000 Sq Ft). Free guided meditation sessions are available each day, offering guests an 18-minute meditation practice called ‘Isha Kriya’ that participants can take home and do on their own. Isha Kriya is a gentle practice for anyone age 12 or older.

Hiking and Mountain Biking on Pristine Forested Trails--The Isha retreat center also offers myriad opportunities for hiking and mountain biking on forested trails winding throughout nearly 1400 acres. The center's five miles of mountain biking trails have been professionally classified from beginner to intermediate skill levels, with steep climbs, water features, and tight switchbacks on the more challenging portions. The trails are part of an expanding network of over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails featuring beautiful waterfalls, a meandering spring-fed creek, and breathtaking bluff overlooks.

Relaxation & Wellness Retreats--Overnight stays include the option of private studio accommodations, delicious vegetarian buffet meals, and beginner-level yoga classes of the visitor`s choice, such as the 'yoga of sound', yoga for strengthening the joints, and yoga for purifying 'life energies'.  

Extended retreat packages feature Ayurvedic rejuvenation consultations and therapies; guided hikes and adventure outings to nearby caves, rivers and falls; and even cooking classes to bring home favorite vegetarian delights.  Guests can learn how to mix the pungent, tangy spices of the East, culture farm-fresh milk into yogurt, roll vegetarian sushi, or bake homemade sourdough bread in the Isha center's popular, international kitchen.

For over 30 years, Isha Institute programs have offered the immense benefits of classical yoga and meditation to over 7 million people around the globe. For further details on the Isha retreat center and the programs offered, visit IshaUSA.org.