The dry, arid climate of the Southwest means that sanctuaries in that region have mastered the art of soothing overheated well-seekers. Meanwhile, the stressors of existing in a chronically online society mean that people may need a little extra TLC when it comes to their mental health.
Here are four spas in Arizona that can soothe clients' skin and nerves.
1. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa in Tucson
Fully immerse yourself in the region's distinct flavors.Image courtesy of Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa.
Miraval Arizona’s Life in Balance Spa features their signature Prickly Pear Sugar Scrub in a full-body experience that includes cane sugar, prickly pear, calendula extract and a hydrating body butter.
The prickly pear, emblematic of the dry, dusty climes that cacti thrive in, excels at providing deep hydration to tired, dull skin. The amino acids in prickly pear can also stimulate collagen production, while its high antioxidant content can protect against damage from environmental stressors like pollution and UV.
Those with sensitive skin can benefit from a Desert Sage Body Polish, which uses aloe vera juice and essential oils of lavender, rosemary and wild sage.
2. Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
Reconnect and realign at the Hilton.Image courtesy of Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock.
Clients can engage in an 80-minute Sedona Energy Vortex Treatment that includes a combination of aromatherapy, Reiki, tuning forks and chakra stones intended for emotional release and easing nervous tension.
Energy work is a common thread in desert-based wellness, being right at home in the vast, quiet atmosphere the desert provides.
3. The Scottsdale Resort & Spa
Lose yourself to the natural gifts of this region.Image courtesy of The Scottsdale Resort & Spa.
This spa offers their Sonoran Escape, a serene body treatment that uses an aromatic sugar scrub, a nourishing clay, a pumpkin enzyme mud wrap and a soothing scalp massage.
The use of sugar and clay is an homage to the rugged landscape of the desert states, with the contrast between exfoliating and pro-absorption qualities respectively mirroring the various extremes demonstrated in environments like these.
4. Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Phoenix
Return to the earth with the grounded mineral treatments of the Royal Palms.Image courtesy of Royal Palms Resort & Spa.
Here clients can experience the Desert Sage Salt Stone Massage, a relaxing treatment with warmed Himalayan pink salt stones meant to alkalize the skin, remineralize the body and balance the mind.
This ritual feels very much like a return to earth, blending the tactile sensations we associate with the ruggedness of the Southwest, with the quiet communion with the spirit many observe in a more remote atmosphere.
Bringing together the vibrant desert flavors of more arid climates and grounded sensations reminiscent of the craggy landscape, these treatments seek to soothe and rejuvenate. Are you inspired by spa-ing in the Southwest?
