Wyndham Wisdom

Stressbusters

Need to relax and recharge? You can't beat a yoga retreat

Even with today's economic challenges, you'd be wrong to give up on relaxing getaways--especially those involving yoga. Scientific evidence shows that stress can lead to chronic health problems and disease, and yoga is known to help reduce stress. The practice can also strengthen muscles, increase flexibility and help you focus. We sussed out six of the best and most affordable yoga retreats. What better way to plan for your future than to invest in your health?

1. The Esalen Institute, a New Age center on California's Big Sur coast, offers workshops like "Yoga, Health and Happiness" (June 21-26), with meditation, breathwork, "laughing yoga"--and hot springs. 831-667-3000; esalen.org; from $1,155*
2. Shoshoni Yoga Retreat, an ashram in the Colorado Rockies, combines hatha yoga and meditation with hiking and vegetarian meals. Ayurvedic massages are worth the extra fee. 303-642-0116; shoshoni.org; from $95 (dorm) to $180 (private cabin) per night
3. In northern Minnesota, Kathy Horak hosts two Iyengar yoga weekends at her Cobblestone Cabins. Between sessions, hike, bike or relax in the sauna. 218-663-7957; cobblestonecabins.biz; May 28-30, June 4-6; from $70 per night, plus $130 for yoga
4. At the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Massachusetts' Berkshires, choose from several styles of yoga or combine yoga with fitness programs. 800-741-7353; kripalu.org; "Blooming Open" yoga and nature retreat (July 19-24), from $720
5. Via Yoga runs six-night retreats in Sayulita, a hip surfer town on Mexico's Pacific coast. Participants sleep in open-air villas and get twice-daily yoga, a massage, a snorkeling trip and surfing lessons. 800-603-9642; viayoga.com; Nov. 28-Dec. 4; from $1,695
6. Hollyhock is set on glorious Cortes Island in British Columbia. Six-day "restorative getaways" (June 5-10 and other dates) include daily yoga, three massages and a guided kayak trip. 800-933-6339; hollyhock.ca; $284, room and board extra

*All prices are per person.