Review: The Art of Living 'Happiness' Retreat In Boone, N.C.

“When __, I am happy.” It sounds like a simple prompt, but sitting in a small circle at the Art of Living Retreat in Boone, N.C., the answers carried weight. “When I accomplish something hard.” “When I wake up with absolutely nothing to do.” “When I am surrounded by people I love.” Our eclectic group of 10 included best friends reuniting, a father with his adult kids, and three solo travelers , plus our lovely instructor Katie. Together, we spent a weekend studying happiness through ancient Ayurvedic teachings and the rhythmic breathing techniques of founder Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.