Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

Step Into Mii Amo, a Tranquil Wellness Retreat in the Arizona Desert

Originally opened in 2001 as a spa with 16 rooms, also called casitas, today Mii Amo is the premium wellness retreat that has recently opened to the public after its grand renovation. Now, it has 23 rooms, an updated spa, and a living room replacing the former indoor pool with lounge seating.

Located in Boynton Canyon, in Sedona, Arizona, Mii Amo, which in Native American means “one’s path or journey forward”, invites its guests to “Journey within”, just as its name suggests. Here, one can focus on their wellbeing, while connecting with nature in this picturesque desert.

Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

Mii Amo’s interior design, which became a winner in Interior Design Wellness (SPA, Yoga, Retreat) at the LIV Hospitality Design Awards, repeats the appearance of the canyon with its tones, shapes, and textures. It can be seen in the use of organic materials and textures resembling the canyon’s red rocks and soft green hues.

The design team of Gluckman Tang Architects together with EDG Interior Architecture + Design was able to refresh the esteemed property by integrating vivid design with architecture while keeping the original idea of the retreat’s oneness with nature. By combining simple forms with earthy tones, and minimalistic decorations, designers emphasized Mii Amo’s mission of embracing their internal power by inspiring its guests to focus on what’s within.

Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

There are 26 treatment and consultation rooms in the spa facility, including a relaxation space for private sessions with Mii Amo’s mindfulness team and therapists. Guests can find a variety of spa treatments here—from a wide range of massages, among them are Ancestral Stone Massage, Four Hands Abhyanga Shirodhara, Chakra Balancing, and Intentional Aromatherapy Massage; to body treatments, such as Desert Mist Body Renewal and Dosha Balancing Wrap.

Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

The renovation also unveiled new gathering places for the guests to enjoy a sense of community. Whether the Relaxation Lounge, the Journey Plunge Pool and Garden, or the Journey Lounge, the guests can unwind in between their busy schedules full of training, massages, and treatments, all custom-designed for their needs and preferences.  

Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

All 23 accommodations, including Casita guest rooms, suites, and three new Casita buildings, have fireplaces and heated bathroom floors, as well as private outdoor spaces within a quiet courtyard compound. The minimalist chic look of the rooms, mixed with environmental details, compliments the view, continuing the main theme of the retreat.

Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

Hummingbird restaurant offers the guests of Mii Amo retreat a wellness-infused cuisine, while its design echoes the atmosphere of the other rooms on the property. The menu offers a wide range of self-grown seasonal produce, as well as the juice bar with its refreshing and nutritious smoothies and fresh juices.

Photo credit: Douglas Friedman
Photo credit: Douglas Friedman

In conclusion, Mii Amo is an ideal place for anyone looking to reawaken themself to nature’s healing abilities combined with the guidance provided by qualified instructors and the unique wellness program.