Kate Waitzkin
As an Austin-based yoga and meditation teacher, I am always seeking the spirit of presence – and I can feel it wash over me as I touch down in Tucson. A stay at Canyon Ranch allows me to curate my day around the practices that nourish me most, from sunrise yoga to energy-balancing Qi Gong and restorative sound work — creating a personal retreat that mirrors the grounded ease and mindful spaciousness I aim to bring to my community back home. Explore my perfect day at Canyon Ranch Tucson and find inspiration for your own journey.
Wake Up with Yoga in the Wild
Begin the morning grounded in nature. As the sun rises over the desert, move through gentle stretches and mindful breathwork at Sabino Canyon for Yoga in the Wild. The quiet, the light, and the wide-open landscape create a moving meditation before the day even begins.
Fuel the Morning at Vaquero
Back at the Ranch, stop for breakfast in Vaquero and dine on The Conscious Cowboy Bowl — scrambled Burmese-style tofu (made with chickpea flour), Cowboy Caviar, quinoa, sautéed greens, crispy house-made tofu bacon — and top it off with a green juice, a refreshing mix of celery, cucumber, kale, honeydew, lemon, green apple, and coconut water. It’s grounding, vibrant, and the perfect fuel for a full day ahead.
Ground with Qi Gong
Late morning, slip into a Qi Gong class to balance energy. The fluid movements, breath connection, and meditative focus offer just what you need: clarity, calm, and a reset from the inside out — a gentle recalibration that stays with you long after class ends.
Fun in the Sun at BOGA Fitmat® Class
With perfect temperatures year-round, there's nothing like enjoying the water in Tucson, especially at the T-Pool. The BOGA Fitmat® Class is a unique fitness class held on floating mats in the pool. This high-intensity, low-impact workout combines yoga, strength training, balance exercises, and cardio for a playful and challenging experience that always leaves everyone smiling.
Enjoy a Poolside Lunch at the Double U Café
Opt for half portions to try more things on the menu. Choose half of the Bright Vitality Bowl — black bean spaghetti, avocado, roasted carrot, arugula, roasted red peppers, citrus vinaigrette, everything bagel seasoning, and roasted pumpkin and sunflower seeds — and half of the Mushroom Pesto Pizza, always with the delicious gluten-free crust. On the way out, grab a matcha and one of Canyon Ranch’s famous oat bars at the Double U — a sweet midday ritual.
Unwind with a Floating Sound Meditation
Sink into the healing power of sound. Wind down for the day with this sunset experience before heading over to the Javelina Cantina for a pre-dinner mocktail. Floating effortlessly while immersed in resonant tones, allow any lingering tension to melt away.
Explore the Desert with Night Vision Goggles
Don't miss out on the seeing the nocturnal magic of Saguaro National Park with military-grade night vision goggles. Set out on a guided walk along a flat trail as you take in the wonders of the night sky and search for the park’s elusive desert wildlife. It’s an unforgettable way to end the day, connected to nature in a way few people ever get to experience.
Meet the Guest
Kate Waitzkin
Kate is an Austin-based yoga and meditation teacher known for her soulful, grounding approach to the practice. With more than a decade of guiding students in studios across the country, Kate has become beloved for the way she seamlessly weaves mindful movement, breathwork, intuitive stillness, and heart-centered intention into every class. Her teaching helps others return to themselves — creating space for clarity, balance, and deeper connection.
CONTACT A STAY EXPERT
Call 800-742-9000 to speak with an experience consultant and create your personalized stay experience or book online