by Valerie Brooks
There are few places more appealing to a traveler with spiritual interests than Northern New Mexico, particularly Santa Fe. The state’s capital, named “The City Different,” literally means The “Saint of Faith” or “Holy Faith.” This southwestern gem is a haven for artists, healers and progressive thinkers. A wealth of spiritual resources and places for exploration permeate this small exciting city.

Places to expand your spiritual mind in Santa Fe abound. One place most people can’t wait to explore is the Loretto Chapel. Legend has it that this structure was being built in 1873 when the nuns ran out of money and couldn’t afford to complete its creation. So, they prayed about it when suddenly a carpenter appeared, finished its construction, and then disappeared without accepting payment. The miracle is that he erected a huge spiral staircase made only with wooden pegs. Modern architects were and still are dumbfounded as to how this staircase remains intact. It is named “The Miraculous Stairway.”

Santa Fe is a place that blends many cultures, and you can find places of worship that addresses all faiths. Buddhism is one of the most popular spiritual paths here and there are a number of places to practice. One of the largest and most comprehensive is the Upaya Zen Center (covered more fully under “Guide to Ashrams in North America). Their gorgeous temple hosts daily meditations and weekly Wednesday night Dharma Talks. Another place to take in a lecture on a Buddhist topic is the Tushita Buddhist Center, or try attending a silent meditation or Dharma talk at the Santa Fe Vipassana Sangha.

For a rich history lesson on Santa Fe’s spiritual history, take a tour at the Ghost Ranch or experience one of their many offerings at the Spirituality & Retreat Center at Casa del Sol. If you’d like to experience the works of Georgia O’Keeffe and how Santa Fe deeply informed her work, a visit to the Goergia O’Keeffe Museum is a must.

Another inspiring place to visit is the White Cloud Institue. Stay for a three-day meditation retreat or just drop in on a Qi Gong class. If you’re looking for more of a resort-type of place, check out the Sunrise Spings Inn & Resort. In addition to spa offerings, this eco-conscious place of bliss offers yoga and tai chi classes as well as some unusal events such as a Lavender Weekend or Raku pottery classes. Spas are big business in Santa Fe since this city is all about natural healing. Just take your pick, whether it’s Ten Thousand Waves, a gorgeous Japanese Spa with private outdoor baths (try them at night!) or Ojo Caliente, a natural hot springs resort where you can go for the day and experience an oudoor mud bath or one of several mineral pools. They also have a spa, bike paths, and wonderful hiking.

If you want to get a real feel for what the locals do for their spiritual fixes, spend the day at BODY. This is by far the most popular place catering to mind, body, and spirit. It has a huge studio where you can take in a yoga class; they have a wealth of programs every month that may include a lesson in herbs one day and a discussion of the mysteries of the Mayan calendar the next. They have a fabulous organic café with delicious foods (although a bit pricey.) Their spa offerings are widespread to include massage, salt glows, or a Reiki session. They even have on-site child care so you can spend the whole day there. A massive store is also part of the BODY experience where you can pick up incense, a book on Tarot readings, or new yoga pants. If you plan it right, you could be there to catch a Kirtan concert. Check out their schedule online.

Santa Fe’s landscape is its own spiritual experience. The majestic mountains rest against turquoise skies with the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen. Hiking is one of the greatest joys of this city and there’s a trail to fit every need.