The mountains, valleys and waterways are alive with health and wellness opportunities. Inherent in the culture is a desire for wellbeing—both physical and spiritual. Maybe because close-up relationships with nature make it easier to live mindfully. Rural towns benefit from such activity, and offer many options ranging from peaceful retreats to rugged exercise. There are rail trails, monasteries, spas, organic farms, mountains, waterways, and, of course, four seasons for recreation and opportunities of all kinds. Cycling, hiking, kayaking, fly fishing, gardening, skiing, snowboarding, yoga, personal enlightenment, and more all make the region’s back-to-the-land lifestyle a big draw.