Retreat in Virginia Beach

Association for Research and Enlightenment - A.R.E.
including Cayce/Reilly School of Massotherapy, Atlantic University for transpersonal studies, Edgar Cayce Library and Conference Center, Health and Rejuvenation Research Center.
215 57th Street 
Virginia Beach, VA
1 800 333 4499
www.edgarcayce.org

As a curious person with widely diverse interests there was a time when I read many books and attended lectures on various metaphysical subjects including the readings of Edgar Cayce. If you are not familiar with the sleeping prophet, Cayce (1877 -1945 ), was a psychic healer and spiritual counselor whose fascinating ability to diagnose ailments and advise treatment through readings continue to be used and studied today. 

In 1928 he established his permanent home and clinic at this location in Virginia Beach and today the original hospital serves as the Association for Research and Enlightenment administrative offices, and Cayce/Reilly School of Massotherapy. Followers throughout the world make pilgrimages here to study, learn and be treated. 

I had briefly visited the bookstore and meditation room years ago but realize now all my return trips to Virginia Beach will be focused on additional body work at the School of Massotherapy. 

Beaten down by a dreary long winter and short of non-work time, I opted for a one hour massage and thirty minute facial. Next time it will be for a half day session but someone else will need to drive! My rave reviews were sufficiently inspiring to motivate a friend to make the trip a week later. She spent 5 1/2 hours getting a full gamut of treatments including reflexology and the steam cabinet. 

Robert, my masseuse, was an experienced professional with a firm but not painful technique. He also did my facial using a number of steamed herbal scented towels, a mask, creams, mist and massage.

A package price for a 4 1/2 hour session of varied treatments runs $189 for non members and $154 for members. Individual treatments are quite reasonable with massages at $35-65 depending on length and facials $45. I felt this was comparable or less than many other spa facilities I’ve visited. 

Throughout the A.R.E. property there is a calm peaceful atmosphere and nice vibes. An interesting and thoughtful touch was “pay before” you receive your services. “ We don’t want to break the pleasant mood after your treatment by talking about money.” I found that logical.

In a jello like state, about two hours after my royal regimen, I collapsed in my hotel room so relaxed my blood pressure was probably 30/30. Speaking my dads favorite words just going to rest my eyes before dinner......it was midnight when I woke up. Thank goodness for an in-room microwave and popcorn.

The A.R.E. visitors and conference center includes their library with the largest metaphysical and spiritual collection in the world, a beautiful meditation room, garden, a book and gift shop carrying a most comprehensive selection of books, tapes and videos, and an auditorium for films and lectures.

Every day there are tours, an Edgar Cayce film and free informative lectures available to members and the general public. If you have an interest in transpersonal studies the Atlantic University offers courses related to holistic studies, psychology, creativity, visual arts and more.

One can join the A.R.E. for one year or life and receive a discount on services as well as their magazine and other benefits. You do not have to be a member to participate in the programs. The next time I will try a half day program with its larger variety of services. They offer reflexology, lymphatic massage, Reiki, Craniosacral therapy and more. I’m wondering if there is a Guineas Book of Records entry for receiving the longest continuous massage and could I challenge it!

The Health and Rejuvenation Research Center provides noninvasive evaluation procedures based on Cayce philosophies. Treatment plans and follow-up are included in various research protocols. A.R.E. can arrange for rooms with kitchenettes at special rates in a nearby hotel for your stay. 

Send or call for information before you visit. Your appointments can be preset and you can review the lecture and class schedule. Everything is accessible. I felt my visit here was a highlight of an already great trip.