In Greater Palm Springs, “being mindful” comes naturally. While staying in the present moment — without judging it, merely experiencing it – can take some practice (and even some work), that step-by-step journey toward mindfulness is exactly the point.  

Take two leisurely days to awaken, observe, explore, and heal, all in the name of self-care and wellness. Whether deep in a yoga pose, under the palms at the swimming pool, or soaking up the scenery on a hushed canyon trail, there’s no better place to mind your mindfulness than naturally beautiful Greater Palm Springs. 

DAY 1 – RELAX 

MORNING 

GPS23_Palm_Springs_Power_Yoga_061

Ease into your mindful escape by devoting your first day to relaxation. A morning yoga session will quiet the mind and release any lingering tensions. Join Urban Yoga Center for an outdoor Longevity, Stretch & Strength class at Ruth Hardy or Frances Stevens Park, where desert breezes rustle the palms overhead. Or head to Power Yoga Palm Springs for a flowing class on the rooftop or in the studio. Choose from gentle, slow, or hot yoga to synchronize body and breath. Afterward, refuel with a nutrient-packed breakfast at one of locals’ favorite casual spots for fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, wellness shots, and hearty vegan options. Nature’s Health Food & Café offers an umbrella-shaded patio setting, while Palm Greens Café welcomes with a green-walled space and colorful lanterns overhead. 

 

AFTERNOON 

Scenic Tahquitz Canyon


Keep the calm going with a meditative hike through Tahquitz Canyon, where a scenic two-mile loop leads to a 60-foot seasonal waterfall. It’s a rare desert sight and the perfect place to pause for reflection, as you take in the sound of water mingling with birdsong. After the canyon’s cool shade, let the afternoon unfold at your own pace, under the warm sun with a stint of poolside relaxation before or after a leisurely lunch. Azúcar, the stylish restaurant at La Serena Villas, satisfies your wellness intentions with a crisp salad or grilled fish tacos, whether with a mountain view from the rooftop patio or from a table facing the courtyard pool. 

 

EVENING 

Good Vibes Sound Bath


As golden hour softens the scenery, slip into stillness with a sound bath meditation. Sukha Life hosts a Friday evening session that combines soothing tones of crystal bowls, chimes, and Tibetan bowls, while Crystal Fantasy offers Saturday evening sound baths behind its iconic downtown shop. Or check the schedule for Good Vibes Sound Bath, whose pop-up meditations at desert resorts add a water element as guests drift on pool floats. Close the day with mindful indulgence at a trendy newcomer: Lola Rose Grand Mezze for elevated Mediterranean flavors across an array of small plates, or Ponzu Sushi, known for its posh setting and modern take on Japanese cuisine. 

 

Day 2 – RENEW 

MORNING 

The Blushing Peony
Photo by Amber Linn Photography
 

Awaken naturally with the desert light — a simple yet grounding practice that helps reset the circadian rhythm. Your second day is all about renewal. If you’re feeling fancy, head to The Pink Cabana for turmeric-honey granola or smoked salmon tartine at Sands Hotel and Spa or to The Blushing Peony, a sweet little gem showcasing farm-fresh California fare with a Spanish twist, both in Indian Wells. For a more casual start, Luscious Lorraine’s in Palm Desert serves an “unapologetically clean” menu featuring organic juices, breakfast burritos, and avocado toast.  
 

Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture GardenPhoto courtesy of Palm Springs Art Museum
 

Then, choose your own adventure in nature. A compact, contemplative walk awaits at Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden, a microcosm of refreshment balancing art with desert flora; or tackle the Art Smith Trail for a rugged oasis in the foothills, both in Palm Desert. For cultivated calm, visit Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage — a midcentury estate turned tranquil garden retreat to discover peaceful pathways for wandering. 
 

SunnylandsPhoto by Millicent Harvey

 

AFTERNOON 

Continue your reset at Desert Serenity & Float Spa in Palm Desert. An optional 45 minute detox in the infrared sauna preps the body to fully let go — weightless, quiet, and deeply restorative. The zero-gravity, sensory-deprivation experience of floatation therapy allows you to emerge lighter, both physically and mentally, with loosened muscles, reduced cortisol levels, and a fresh sense of clarity. Your stop for a nourishing lunch is Chef Tanya’s Kitchen, where the plant-based menu surprises even the skeptics. 

 

EVENING 

Complete your renewal at Bliss Chakra Spa on El Paseo. Their signature, sensory-driven massages include the energy-balancing Reiki Massage and the harmonizing Heaven and Earth Massage that incorporates a sound healing component with “raindrop therapy” of essential oils along the spine. Each promise a gentle recalibration of body and spirit. Step out feeling restored and ready to celebrate your wellness journey with dinner at Wildest Restaurant + Bar. This vegetarian-friendly (but not exclusively so) hot spot receives high praise for creative, globally inspired dishes that highlight wild seafood, grass-fed meats, locally grown produce, and gluten-free plates, all beautifully – mindfully – presented.  
 

PLACES FOR A MINDFUL STAY 

Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis

Lush & Tranquil 

Restorative Mineral Waters

Peaceful Boutique Luxury 

Rejuvenating Resorts

 

Craving more ways to unwind? These Greater Palm Springs spas serve delicious meals, and are a perfect way to pamper every sense!