Southwest spas: Hot springs, warm serenity

Spas exist to relax the body, rest the mind, and soothe the soul. Each location has its own ambiance and attributes, often reflective of it’s region. With holistic hot springs, wellness rituals, and plethora of grooming services, you’ll find it all in New Mexico.

Southwest spas for health and wellness

North of Santa Fe is Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-style hot springs health spa. Tucked away in the forest on the western slopes of Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it’s the ultimate in lush silent serenity. The nine baths include choices of indoor or outdoor, communal or private, regular or premium. The fenced-in courtyard is designed with a rock garden, waterfall, large concrete pool, cold plunge, and sauna.

They offer the full gamut of wraps, scrubs, and glows. As well as unique treatments like the ‘four hands massage’. Where two therapists move in unison, with two sets of hands massaging simultaneously.

Sanctuary in the centre of town

BODYSpa in Santa Fe is a sanctuary in the middle of the city for every body and every budget. The Therapeutic Massage with Alpine Arnica Rub uses an anti-inflammatory minty-smelling herbal gel to treat sore muscles. Resulting in taking care of any aches that might be present.

BODYSpa also has a yoga studio, fitness classes, and the BODYBoutique where you can purchase goods from companies with fair-trade, sustainable and organic practices. While BODYCafe serves up juices, smoothies, and cuisine for raw, vegan and other special diets.

Pamper yourself at day spa

Fuchsia is a fun and fresh day spa in Mesa, Arizona. It’s all about the little things, like playing ‘chick flicks’ on flat screen TVs, having bowls of candy for guests, and options for music. Express services like pedicures, manicures, facials, airbrush tanning, and blow dry bar, have you covered from head to toe.

Fuchsia now has five locations to add to your list of favourite southwest spas – in Mesa, Gilbert, Phoenix and Tuscon. So if you often spend time in the area, their monthly membership comes with complimentary services, generous discounts, and special offers and events.

Luxury hotels with luxurious spas

In Phoenix, the Royal Palms Resort boasts the rustic splendor of a Mediterranean villa, with the majestic backdrop of Camelback Mountain. Stone walkways, fragrant groves and exotic foliage embellish the property.

Alvadora Spa at the Royal Palms offers signature treatments to indulge the senses, like the 80-minute Citrus Ritual that involves exfoliating scrub and massage, outdoor waterfall shower in a private garden, lounge chairs, fireplace, and an herbal whirlpool bath.

There are accommodations for all tastes and lengths of stay while visiting New Mexico. When I travel, I often book my stays through Booking.com.