Gray Bear FAQ
How rustic is Gray Bear?
Gray Bear is advertised as a rustic, retreat center, very comfortable
environment. We have all the comforts of home such as bedding, linens,
and towels. Being "in the woods" does not exclude the luxuries of hot
showers, indoor plumbing and quiet lighting for night reading at Gray
Bear. We want you to feel at home without the stresses sometimes
experienced in our modern urban lifestyles.
We use very little outdoor "strong lighting", choosing instead to keep
light pollution to a minimum and star gazing at a maximum.
Do we serve coffee?
Yes, (you can breathe a sigh of relief now) Coffee is served at
breakfast, but not before. We begin each morning with quiet
meditation…. a time to contemplate… and allow your morning to
gracefully greet you. A sweet awakening. Organic coffee or tea, soy
and milk creams will be there to start your day.
Can I bring my dogs?
We're sorry, but no. As much as we love nature and all the wonderful
things it has to offer, we do not allow pets at Gray Bear. Gray Bear
is a space for people to let go of their outside responsibilities,
like taking care of animals.
Do you serve alcohol at Gray Bear?
It is our direction with the retreats we offer to focus on cleansing,
renewing, and revitalizing the body and mind. We find alcohol is not
necessary for this process and so we do not serve or offer alcohol.
Will my cell phone work at Gray Bear?
We encourage your ability to take full advantage of retreats and
arrange your schedule to be as free as possible. Because we are in a
secluded area your cell phone may or may not work. In the event that
your phone works and you feel the need to use it, we ask that you do
so in a way that will not disturb other attendees, staff, instructors,
classes, classes, or time the group spends together.A direct number will be provided during your stay for Emergency needs.
Do you do retreats during the summer? Winter?
We are normally not open during the summer or winter. Winter at Gray
Bear is spent preparing for the upcoming year's workshops, and
renewing ourselves, so that we can continue to provide the best
quality workshops and events possible.
Where is the nearest airport to fly into?
Nashville is the nearest
airport. The drive from BNA (Nashville Airport is about 2 hours.
Please plan plenty of time for arrival and departure/check in. Leaving
the airport, I65 South is the route, which takes you to Gray Bear.
I can't find a map on your web site, Why is that?
A map and directions are sent with registration to keep unannounced
guests from entering without permission or notice, as well as
interrupting a retreat. Because we are a small community, living and
working at Gray Bear visits must be coordinated with our schedule and
staff.
Is Gray Bear ever open during non-listed times?
At times we do have guests who reserve Gray Bear for private retreats
that fall within our mission statement. To inquire about reserving
Gray Bear during non-listed times please first check our calendar and
then email Adam or call 615-782-0469.
Do I need to bring my own yoga props?
We provide most everything needed (straps, blankets, sticky mats,
bolsters, chairs, etc). However, some guests prefer to bring their own
mats, which is perfectly fine. Please make sure any and all props you
bring are well marked to avoid confusion.
Is Gray Bear open for massage appointments?
No, Gray Bear is not open for massage sessions. We are a seasonal private retreat center, open in the Spring and the Fall. GB does not directly provide massage therapy, but has a network of highly trained professional licensed LMT’s who provide their skillful services for your retreat with us.