about Scottsdale spas was how much emphasis they put on overall wellness. Sanctuary Spa at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort is one of several Scottsdale spas offering yoga classes for guests. Whether you’re looking for the challenge of Power Yoga or the relaxation of Thai Yoga, Sanctuary Spa has the perfect class to help you feel balanced, flexible and focused. After your class, take advantage of one of Sanctuary Spa’s Asian-inspired treatments like the Wild Lime Blossom massage. For a little his-and-hers pampering, Dave and I booked Sanctum, an outdoor couple’s treatment suite that’s nestled within the spa’s peaceful, shrine-like setting.

I got my metabolism going with a cardio session on one of the spa’s outdoor stationary bikes. The stunning views of Camelback Mountain from kept me inspired as I pedaled. Next, I retreated to Joya’s lavish interior for a Hammam Ritual. This ancient purification and detoxification ritual begins with a steam treatment, cold deluge, whirlpool and relaxing sauna, then finishes with a full-body Moroccan black olive charcoal soap cleansing and exfoliation, and a 50-minute Joyambrosia Signature Massage. Pure bliss!

the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch for a Crushed Pearl Mani-Pedi. As my hands and feet were being buffed and polished, my aesthetician explained the way Spa Avania’s treatments center around a unique “time-of-day” philosophy and how our bodies prepare to awaken in the morning, balance at midday and renew in the evening. Everything from treatment products, personal iPods, lighting, aromatherapy and specialty teas are all keyed to what each individual’s body physi¬ology requires to operate at its peak.

the look and feel of Willow Stream Spa was inspired by Havasupai, an oasis tucked away deep in the Grand Canyon. Even Havasupai’s signature waterfall is re-created at the spa, flowing from the rooftop pool area over red-hued stones into the courtyard below. At Willow Stream, Dave enjoyed a Golf Performance Massage while I indulged in The Ultimate facial, which included a skin exfoliation, contour lifting face massage, protein rich marine energy sheet and the spa’s antioxidant-rich Marine Energy Ampoule. Afterward, my skin was smooth, hydrated and luminous and Dave swears he shaved a few strokes of his game.

was a long-time favorite, the Spa at Camelback Inn. This spa’s one-of-a-kind spa therapies are inspired by indigenous Sonoran Desert ingredients as well as the techniques and traditions of the area’s Native American cultures. When you go, be sure to treat yourself to lunch at Sprouts, the spa’s on-site restaurant. Served poolside or in the dining room, Sprouts’ cuisine is healthy, delicious and made with the freshest ingredients. Our favorites include the Bruschetta Pomodoro, Seared Salmon with ponzu sauce and, of course, the sinful-sounding Chocolate Fondue with fresh fruit.