Finding Balance: Decorah's Wellness Weekend Promises Health, Fun, and Community

DECORAH — Decorah-area businesses and wellness providers have joined together to celebrate wellness in all its forms this November 1-3 for the second annual Wellness Weekend. The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce has curated a list of more than a dozen opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy. In addition to the outdoor recreation for which Decorah is nationally recognized, the town boasts a surprisingly high number of yoga and pilates businesses, fitness studios & gyms, massage providers, and health-minded eateries. "As we head into the winter season where daylight is short and we take extra care to stay healthy, the Chamber is pleased to lead a wellness weekend," says Chamber Director Jessica Rilling. "The weekend is about celebrating how blessed we are with access to healthcare providers, wellness professionals, opportunities for physical activity, and caring humans who have small businesses to support mind, body and spirit. Our residents lead healthier and happier lives because we have so many choices here and this dynamic wellness portfolio remains a top community characteristic for businesses doing workforce recruitment." The free, three-day wellness-focused effort is a thematic weekend where all businesses and organizations are encouraged to host or share a wellness activity, product, or service. Individuals are encouraged to participate at any level that is right for them—that could be as simple as scheduling an appointment with a provider, supporting a local eatery that serves heart-healthy meals, taking a hike on one of the City of Decorah park trails, or purchasing items at a small business that supports self care. For people who might enjoy a more organized class or event, there are great choices. Oneota Valley Family Eye Care is sharing information about eyelid health for a Friday "Love Your Lids" event, Driftless Yoga Center and Salú Sauna + Wellness Spa both host open houses on Saturday. The Well at Crater Fitness hosts special indoor cycling rides all weekend, Root 43 Juicery launches their new juice Hydrate + as an exclusive collaboration with Salú, and Blazing Star will offer a special Apple Fennel Salad and Carrot Apple Ginger Mocktail. Oneota Community Food Co-op will also have Evan Healy onsite for demos and sampling on Saturday. Then, on Sunday, Decorah Yoga Room will host a Rejuvenate & Restore Yoga Class and Serenity Fitness will host an afternoon Zumba Fitness class. For families looking to do something together, The Driftless Yoga Center offers a free "Wiggles & Giggles" yoga and movement class at 10 a.m. on Friday in partnership with the Decorah Public Library. Feel like being outdoors? Decorah Park & Recreation says this weekend is a perfect time to walk to Ice Cave. The park's limestone staircase was redone in the last year, and a new limestone bench installed this month—offering a picture-perfect place for rest and reflection. For a full list of Wellness Weekend offerings around the Decorah Area visit decorahareachamber.com Knowledge is power! Stay empowered by subscribing to the free newsletter, packed with valuable insights, stories of local newsmakers and ideas to get your weekend started.