June Field Notes 2024

Relax, Unwind, and Be Well in Transylvania County. Breathe in… and breathe out. Do you hear that? It’s the sound of life’s hectic moments melting away in the peaceful mountain oasis that is Transylvania County. Here, you can find calm moments in the company of nature as you take in the awe of an unending vista, soak up the sunlit canopy of the forests, and find your balance through movement and relaxation. Ready to find your inner peace? Let’s go.

Find your zen outside. With 100,000+ acres of public lands to explore in the county, there’s plenty of room to spread out and find your moments of zen in nature. One increasingly popular way to enjoy the calm and rich, sensory experience of the outdoors is through forest bathing. Forest bathing is a practice that engages your senses to find a deeper connection with nature. To get the most out of this relaxing experience, make sure to turn off your devices to decrease distractions, move slowly along a trail, take deep breaths, and check in often to observe what is around you.

You can also find serenity while admiring Transylvania’s naturally beautiful views. Of course, the Land of Waterfalls has many cascades to explore. If a mountain vista sounds more like your idea of peace, there are several incredible overlooks that await. Maybe the river is calling your name. Whether you decide to cast a line or paddle your way through mountain streams, our rivers are sure to help you decompress.

Mindful Movement. Sometimes, the perfect way to engage with inner peace is by finding your balance — literally! You can find camaraderie with the surrounding hills by moving into a mountain pose through group yoga classes. Brevard Yoga offers yoga classes for yogis of all abilities throughout the week. D. D. Bullwinkel’s Outdoors has a Community Yoga Class on Wednesdays, and the Brevard Library hosts yoga in the library amphitheater every Friday through October. Amber Shadwick and Wild Souls Authentic Movement should also be on your movement radar. Looking for yoga with a view? Outdoor Fitness Brevard offers stretch and flow classes in various scenic locations.

Treat Yourself. You deserve some time to be pampered, so let’s take this journey indoors for some time to unwind. Find the ultimate calm and relaxation with a trip to one of Transylvania County’s highly-rated area spas. Each one offers a unique list of services to choose from for your self-care — from luxurious skin treatments and deep-tissue massages to invigorating exfoliations and calming therapies. Whichever place you choose, you’re guaranteed to have an experience of serenity.

Elements

Greystone Inn

Le Petite Spa and Wellness

Healthy Eats. Fuel your wellness journey with fresh and nutritious foods from local markets and farms. There are many delicious, healthy food spots throughout the county where you can stop and grab nutritious eats while traveling to that next waterfall, river, vista, or forest bathing session. Food Matters has a cafe menu with freshly made smoothies and salads, Nature Hollow offers farm fresh produce and groceries, and the weekly Transylvania Farmers’ Market features dozens of local vendors, selling everything from locally grown produce and honey to baked goods and green cleaners.

Our natural wonders deserve a little relaxation too, so remember while exploring to Leave It Better. Do your part to keep our parks and forests free of trash.