6 Must-Packs for a Winter Yoga Retreat
The indulgence of a stay at Blackberry Farm plus a three-day yoga retreat equals my version of heaven, friends.
Today, I drive up to Blackberry to attend the H(OM)E: Sacred Space retreat with yoga and wellness pro Chrissy Carter. Situated in the Great Smoky Mountains, this celebrated luxury property is, in my opinion, the perfect spot to kick off the beginning of a new year with a wellness retreat.
So, what will be going in my bag for a relaxed winter visit to the Tennessee mountains where the days will be filled with yoga, meditating, and relaxing? Read on for six of my picks…
L.L. Bean Women's Mountain Classic Down Jacket
$159
L.L. Bean has been doing down coats since long before they were the cool thing to wear. (I remember my dad sporting his Bean puffer jacket on many a camping trip in the 80s.) So, when I needed a new quality coat this winter, I purchased this one. It’s snuggly, machine-washable, and features DownTek insulation (that is, treated down that stays dry longer and dries out faster).
Ink+Volt Undated Goal Planner with Notes
$32.50
Writing goals and to-dos down on real paper is one of my secrets to success. Sure, there is a place for my online calendars. But, my love for planners and physically writing down things to check off my list goes back to my elementary school days. This year, I decided to try an Ink+Volt option and really love the sleek look, paper quality, ribbon page markers, and the information included on each page. Whether you go with this version or the year-long version, you can’t lose.
Beyond Yoga Just Chillin Long Sleeve Pullover
$79
This snuggly long sleeve option is my go-to for a chilly day. The stretchy knit fabric feels like cashmere against your skin. It’s the perfect piece to get you to and from your yoga practice. (Plus, the white, black, or grey pullover looks at home whether you’re at the barre or headed to brunch.)
Spiritual Gangster Namaste Pom Beanie
$35
I mean, how perfect is this for a yoga retreat? When I need to keep my ears warm, you can typically find me in this beanie. I love how it allows me to wish everyone well — without ever having to say a word.
CARBON38
Regular Rise 7/8 Legging in Takara Shine
$95
Shiny and they stay up — that’s why these Takara leggings are some of my new favorites. The wide waistband is the key to keeping these black beauties in place. It’s just snug enough that it’s not going to slip. And if you’re like me and have more of a short, athletic waist (that is, no curves), the regular-rise option will likely fit better. (I also have other Takara’s that are high-waisted, but they hit a little too close to my sports bra for me. As a point of reference, I’m about 5’7”.)
Lululemon The Reversible Mat 5mm
$68
When I do ANY workout, I sweat buckets. And until I found this Lulu mat, I was forever slipping out of poses, because my hands were too sweaty. But, thanks to the grip I can get on this mat, I’m able to hold my body in wheel pose — even when I’m sweating buckets. Thank you, Lululemon!
P.S. Looking for a personalized approach to your wellness experience? I’ve spent a decade working as a wellness journalist — visiting more than 50 spas from Vail to Vienna — and 20 years in the fitness industry. The picks for my City Wellness Guides are based on my experience.