Located on Old Point Washington, the East of Eden Retreat and Spa is minutes away from busy Walton County beaches, yet remains in a rural setting, secluded among the oaks and bamboo. The layout of the grounds is striking; a juxtaposition of modern architecture and serene, natural foliage. The resulting environment is a sanctuary for those seeking a variety of spa services, holistic therapies, yoga and yoga retreats, as well as educational workshops relating to physical and emotional health.

Owner Dr. Eric Scheufler, a Miramar Beach oral and maxillofacial surgeon, opened East of Eden in August 2014. Originally serving as a peaceful place for him to escape the bustle and noise of the outside world, East of Eden today is a holistic haven designed to help people find their own inner peace and balance.

The spa’s motto, “Find your path to Eden,” befits the cloistered nature of the spa, inspired by a “lifelong quest for serenity and rejuvenation in the midst of hectic 21st-century life,” according to Scheufler.

The East of Eden staff includes a range of holistic health care providers, including licensed massage therapists, acupuncture physicians, naturopaths, estheticians, yoga instructors and hair stylists, all operating under the supervision of a medical doctor.

Spa programs at East of Eden are customizable from a several hours to several days, and the day begins with a morning yoga class, followed by a freshly prepared green juice or almond milk smoothie delivered from the Raw and Juicy kitchen. A visit to the complimentary sauna warms muscles before a 60- or 90-minute massage session. Afterward, guests are guided to a wet steam room for cromotherapy (colorology) and a facial or other healing treatment such as acupuncture or a naturopathic consultation. East of Eden also features a saltwater pool with an adjoining hot tub, both warmed by solar power. Lunch options include a healthy menu and private sushi dinner parties are available with advance notice.

Manager Eve Blair explains that the spa can comfortably accommodate groups of up to 10 people. “We have four treatment rooms where services can be provided, while our lounge area can fit about another six people,” she says. “The spa offers a variety of contemporary residencies for couples, families or groups that seek an extended stay within a paradisal haven unlike other commercial resorts.”

Upcoming events at East of Eden include an Active Recovery workshop. with Dylan Churchwell, Eden Energy Medicine 101, with Tanni Hall, Uncommon Faith, with Felicia McQuaid, and Conscious Connected Breathing, with Jack Fontana, on May 16.

 

East of Eden Retreat and Spa is located at 234 Dog Hobble Ln., in Santa Rosa Beach. For more information or to make a reservation, call 850-797-4754, email [email protected] or visit EastOfEdenRetreatAndSpa.com.