Appalachian Mountain Club Offers New Health and Wellness Weekend Series

Expert-led workshops combine the outdoors with yoga, Pilates, and Qigong

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 24, 2008

		Media Contact
		Laura Hurley, PR Assoc. Dir., amcpr@outdoors.org 617-391-6621

The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) this winter is introducing a new, expert-led health and wellness weekend series at its Highland Lodge in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, connecting the natural world with mind-body exercises that include yoga, Pilates, and Qigong. Guided hikes or snowshoe tours will complement indoor programs, revealing the serenity of the outdoors as the group explores local trails. The weekend dedicated to Qigong will take group outings a step further, incorporating breathing and movement techniques into the hikes.

Personal time for reflection and relaxation is also set aside as part of every weekend’s daily activities, along with a varied mix of featured talks on topics such as stress management, nutrition, and women’s health. Social hours and special evening speakers are also planned.    

Highland Lodge, surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest, offers doorstep access to many miles of hiking, snowshoe, and cross-country ski trails in the midst of diverse natural habitats for wildlife watching. Amenities include private rooms in a green-friendly setting and free use of L.L. Bean gear, such as snowshoes, water bottles, day packs, and outerwear. Yoga equipment is provided as well.  

The yoga and Qigong focused weekends in particular are designed for participants with some experience, although beginners are welcome.

Visit AMC’s Winter Planning Guide for more details, including information about new winter family weekends, adventure programs for ages 50+, Ski & Stay packages, and other deals – www.outdoors.org/winterguide.

Health and Wellness Weekend Series:

• April 3-5, Yoga and Wellness
  Choose from a variety of easier and moderate yoga-based workshops and hikes or snowshoe excursions, and then indulge in a massage for the ultimate in mind and body relaxation. Nutrition presentations, stress management techniques, featured evening speakers, and social activities are also part of the weekend. 
• February 27-March 1, Qigong in the Spirit of Winter
  Through selected principles of Chinese medicine and nutrition, explore ways of tapping into winter’s “yin” energy to seek balance for body, mind, and spirit. Learn about and practice several forms of meditation and “Qigong,” meaning energy cultivation, both indoors and on the trail while discovering how these ancient arts enrich outdoor experiences by helping to achieve center and focus.
• March 27-29, Women in the White Mountains
  Plan a girlfriend getaway that combines guided cross-country ski and snowshoe tours in the White Mountains with indoor wellness programs, including stretching, yoga, Pilates, massage, and evening talks by women’s health experts. Activities are planned for all ability levels.
  

Rates and reservations
All-inclusive rates for the health and wellness weekends start at $490.50, plus taxes, per person for adult non-members ($462.50 for members). Packages include two nights accommodations in a private bunkroom with shared bath for up to six people, all meals (dinner includes fresh baked bread, soup, salad, entree, and dessert), guided programs, instruction, use of snowshoes, and cross-country ski pass and yoga equipment when programmed. Individuals may be subject to a single supplement or be assigned to a shared room on a same-sex basis. Private rooms with private baths are available for an additional charge. For reservations, call (603) 466-2727.

Founded in 1876, the Appalachian Mountain Club is the oldest conservation and recreation organization in the nation. With 90,000 members in the Northeast and beyond, the nonprofit AMC promotes the protection, enjoyment, and wise use of the mountains, rivers and trails of the Appalachian region. The AMC supports natural resource conservation while encouraging responsible recreation, based on the philosophy that successful, long-term conservation depends upon first-hand enjoyment of the natural environment.