Southwest Healing

Just three miles from downtown Santa Fe, NM, and the setting for Willa Cather's book Death Comes for the Archbishop, the grounds of The Bishop's Lodge Resort & Spa have served as a retreat since 1985.

 SháNah Spa and Wellness Center offers a range of massage treatments to promote wellness
SháNah Spa and Wellness Center offers a range of massage treatments to promote wellness

In that spirit, the resort's SháNah Spa and Wellness Center emphasizes healing and well-being. All treatments begin with an optional drumming and blessing to set the intention and open the heart.

Outdoor massage allows guests to enjoy New Mexico's beautiful weather
Outdoor massage allows guests to enjoy New Mexico's beautiful weather

To offer guests a memorable opportunity to connect more deeply with themselves and the universe, the spa recently built an authentic Native American sweat lodge. For just $30 per person (six person minimum), Raven, an Algonquin Indian and a ceremonial leader in the Eagle Bear Clan, takes guests on a two-and-a-half hour journey. The ceremony peaks when the "Grandfather stone" splits from the heat of the fire in the lodge.

The spa's authentic Native American sweat lodge
The spa's authentic Native American sweat lodge

In explanation, marketing and communications manager Paul Kenney says, "The ancient wisdom of Mother Earth is contained within the stone people. If we listen and watch, we can perceive messages from them that will assist us in our own process." Afterwards, guests can discuss their experiences during a vegetarian feast.—D.D.

The relaxation area has decorative Southwestern accents.
The relaxation area has decorative Southwestern accents.