SCOTTSDALE, AZ — From Native Americans transforming prickly cacti into soothing balms and sun-baked river rocks into muscle relaxants hundreds of years ago to the sumptuous treatments offered in resorts and day spas today, Scottsdale has a long history of being one of the spa capitals of the world. Now, “The World’s Finest Resort-Spa Destination” elevates its status once more, offering several comprehensive packages that draw upon the destination’s curative powers.
Achieve true inner-peace during a Satori retreat at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain. Named after the Japanese word for enlightenment, the property offers five Satori retreats for you to choose from including spa, wellness, adventure, executive or romance. While each four- to five- day retreat focuses on its overarching theme, all incorporate spa and fitness activities in an inspirational desert setting. Satori’s signature retreat is spa, which offers four nights and five days of pampering that begins the moment the resort’s town car whisks you from the airport to a Sanctuary casita or private home. Days are filled with luxurious spa treatments, private rejuvenating exercise classes, nature walks, and spa meals individually created by Sanctuary’s award-winning Chef Beau MacMillan. Package rates start at $2,800.
Rooted on ancient spiritual grounds, the Waldorf Astoria Spa at The Boulders Resort The Boulders recently introduced The Dance of the Sacred Circle, its most transformative, most immersive experience ever for changing course and healing emotional wounds. The Dance of the Sacred Circle was created using the Native American belief system as their guide. The dance is a series of spa services that follows a Medicine Wheel of human experiences. Achieve enlightenment, introspection, release and transformation during this journey that seeks to not only heal the body, but also the mind and heart. Experience the entire dance during four, 75-minute services for $985 or opt for four, 30-minute services for $400. Spa-goers can also experience one component of the dance during a 75-minute service for $260.
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ new spa concept, Well & Being at Willow Stream Spa, invites you to experience complete wellness with The Healthy Executive program, which highlights the importance of a healthy mind and body during a two- or three-day course. Begin the program with an integrative medicine consultation with board-certified physician Dr. Diane Downing, who will assess your medical history, health goals, and use of prescription medicines and nutritional supplements. Then, create a customized food plan with a nutritionist and undergo a fitness assessment that culminates with an exercise program that’s tailored for you. Step into the bod pod for a complete analysis of your body fat to lean muscle mass. End the program with a stress management session with an intentional living coach, providing you with the skills to proactively manage your stress and counter its adverse effects. The program costs $7500 plus gratuity. (Check out www.vannuysnewspress.com for more travel information on Scottsdale, AZ.)