There’s no denying that the past year has been stressful for everyone. Whether you’re a medical frontliner, essential worker, remote worker, or business owner, the global crisis has taken a toll on your life, from your finances to your physical and mental health.
While working non-stop and dealing with life’s many challenges has always been there even before the pandemic, what we didn’t have this year are those brief pleasures like taking a walk, getting a haircut, going on a road trip or holiday abroad that allow us to restart and feel good about ourselves. That said, the collective stress had piled up, which led to warnings of a global mental health crisis.
For this reason, it’s no surprise that when people were asked what they’ll do once it’s safe to go out, most said that wellness trips would be their top priority. The recent surge of bookings, flights, and tour packages is a testament to this.
Luckily, there are plenty of places to go in the US, from full-blown wellness retreats to national parks and beaches that will melt your worries away. So if you’re planning your own wellness trip, here are some destinations and retreats worth visiting:
Tucson, Arizona
Arizona is one of the top destinations in the US for rejuvenation. Think desert landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see or the Santa Catalina Mountains right in your backyard. The dramatic landscape of Tucson and its laid-back lifestyle are enough to hit your reset button. Plus, it happens to host two noteworthy wellness retreats like the Miraval Resort and Spa and Canyon Ranch. Both retreats offer a relaxing stay, healthy homegrown food, meditation and counseling, body scrubs, and massages, you name it. On top of that, you can try plenty of other activities like trail cycling and horseback riding.
Waveland, Indiana
Indiana is rich in natural wonders, so it won’t be hard to find a wellness center or relaxing retreat to stay in for a weekend or even an entire week. In addition to its many state parks, nature reserves, hiking trails, and peaceful but charming towns, Indiana boasts the Sugar Creek Retreat, a wellness retreat and yoga center nestled in the middle of the forest. Before you go, you can also pay a visit to a doctor specializing in sports injuries to treat your lingering body aches.
Palm Springs, California
California is famous for its sunny and laid-back vibe, so it’s no surprise that it’s a top wellness destination in the US. Californians are all about wellness, so expect to have endless options. But when it comes to pure detox getaways Palm Springs is the place to go. It’s home to The Spa at Desert Springs, The Spring Resort and Day Spa, Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa, La Quinta Resort and Club, and We Care Spa, all of which promise a memorable healing experience.
Hawley, Pennsylvania
If your idea of healing and wellness is fishing and kayaking on a lake, sunbathing along the shore, and unwinding in a lakeside lodge, then you’ll find peace in Hawley, Pennsylvania. This famous lake town is home to The Lodge at Woodlock, which offers all kinds of massages, facials, and full-body treatments. Other activities include biking on forest trails, golfing, and skiing in the winter.
Stowe, Vermont
Among all states in this list, Vermont has the highest concentration of wellness getaways, and for a good reason. The state boasts beautiful forested mountains, quiet wilderness, world-famous fall colors, endless trails, artisanal food, and the list goes on. Milldale Farm Center for Wellness, Castle Hill Resort and Spa, and New Life Hiking Spa and Wellness Retreats are go-to getaways, while Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa and The Lodge at Spruce Peak offer luxury spa and healing experiences and world-class skiing in winter.
Canyon Point, Utah
Utah’s breathtaking mountain landscape alone can leave you feeling rejuvenated and reconnected. But if you’re looking for a wellness experience that will have lasting results, Canyon Point has plenty to offer. Treat yourself to a 5-star experience at Amangiri, a 25,000-sq-ft spa that offers a wide range of massages and treatments, from facials to flotation therapy. It also has world-class facilities like saunas, steam rooms, plunge pools, and fitness rooms. Plus, you can access hiking trails, lakes, and slot canyons literally from your lodging.
You can also check in your local area to see if there are wellness retreats nearby if you want to avoid traveling by air. But when it’s safe to travel, be sure to include these destinations in your list. Trust us; it will be worth every penny!
