The Zen of Golf

Birds chirping, a mild breeze blowing, the gentle whir of golf carts off in the distance—the natural soundtrack of golfing lends itself to being in the “here and now,” to immers-ing yourself in the present moment—ideal, since the mental challenge of the game requires maintained focus. Escape from your everyday life, if only for a few hours, with these luxurious golf resorts that pair mind-body experiences, spectacular scenery and world-class courses.

Quieting the mind is not always easy to do, but it’s very possible at The Boulders Resort & Spa in Scottsdale. Strolling around a meditation labyrinth helps spa and resort guests clear away stress and provide a level of mental clarity useful to playing well. That elevated consciousness is sure to help on the peaceful North and South Courses, both of which are dotted with massive, ancient examples of the resort’s namesake.

The Mitakuye Oyasin Morning Ritual at the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa is a centuries-old method of starting each day in a positive manner. Held at the resort’s Salud Terrace, the traditional American Indian ceremony includes the burning of sage and an eagle feather blessing, helping guests connect with nature and find a focused mindset. Use the latter to your advantage out on the resort’s 18-hole layout (formerly the Rattler and Roadrunner nines) or try your luck on the walker-friendly Coyote nine-hole course.

Just south of downtown Sedona sits Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. Natural beauty and awe-inspiring views set the meditative vibe here. Get your head in the game with a Signature Sedona Energy treatment at the onsite Eforea Spa, where soothing massage techniques are interwoven with energy work such as Reiki, sound healing and chakra balancing. Then, tee it up at the adjacent Sedona Golf Resort, featuring a 6,646-yard, par-71 course surrounded by dramatic buttes and the dome of Bell Rock.