Wellness is essential to my well-being

I live in Paris. It is a city I love. It offers endless layers of delight and discovery. But like any big city, it has its daily challenges. It is bustling with people, busy and full of life. To thrive in this environment, I have made the conscious decision to practice self-care. Amongst the hustle and bustle of my Parisian life, I prioritize good health and fitness in a wide variety of themes. As part of a holistic approach to my wellness journey in Paris, as well as the culture, restaurants, and sightseeing, I love discovering new fitness and experiences. I seek out new yoga and pilates studios, spas, beauty treatments.

Achieving and maintaining my personal sense of wellness is a fascinating pasttime that nourishes my desire for self-care as well as my sense of adventure. Unsurprisingly, Paris has an enormous array of wellness options and the choices continue to grow. Whether you are a resident, an expat or a visitor, you are guaranteed to find an activity or experience that stimulates you.

My wellness journey

Over the years, I have explored Paris from a number of different perspectives – as an awestruck teenager, backpacker, tourist, expat, young mother, working mother, confirmed French citizen, and so it continues. Paris never ceases to amaze me and I am now discovering a new side to the city through my wellness experiences.

What is my definition of wellness? Essentially, my goal is to be not just surviving, but thriving. Feeling healthy inside and out, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, spiritually. Comfortable in my skin, happy in my life. Sure of my strengths and my weaknesses – and owning them.

In addition to being in good health, for me, wellness is a unique feeling of peace, inner calm, when I am relaxed and my mind is still. Optimism, satisfaction, relief, gratitude, inner calm, and physical strength. I feel quietly invincible.

How do I nourish my wellness? Healthy living, good food, yoga, beauty, ballet, cultural delights, travel, and more. Decluttering, cooking, learning new skills, challenging my beliefs and convictions. Taking time out of my comfort zone, enjoying delicious food and good wine. Not forgetting to dance on the table from time to time.

Of course, to maintain my love of Paris and all things Parisian, sometimes I need to take a little break to regroup and come back reinvigorated. When this happens I discover new destinations (most often in France) and I get my fix of fresh country or sea air.

Life stages change your perception

This is my wellness journey in Paris. It might not look exactly like yours, but you might also see something that speaks to you or incites you to try something new. I’m constantly deciding to try new activities – cyrotherapy, aerial yoga, EMS, to name a few! Sometimes I go back for more and other times I’m pleased to have had the experience.

Clearly our ages, responsibilities, and fitness levels have an impact on our approach to wellness. In my 20s I didn’t even think about wellness on a regular basis. I would have said at that age that wellness was the same as happiness. I didn’t take much notice of my health.

However, in my 30s, wellness was a different beast. I had so much stamina and optimism that I could work long hours, spend quality time with my kids, have drinks with friends, and then go to the gym on the weekend. Sleep was less essential and I nourished my wellness and well-being in a less conscious, structured way.

Now in my 40s, wellness is a priority, a clear necessity – physical and emotional – for my strength, sanity, and inner peace. It also benefits those around me. I carve out time for myself through regular fitness classes, beauty treatments, good sleep and pursuits that bring me joy and personal satisfaction. Local cultural discoveries and plans to visit awe-inspiring, foreign destinations are also pieces of my wellness puzzle. It is an ever-evolving journey.

Sharing my Paris wellness experiences

My goal is to share what I have learned so far on my wellness journey. Yes, I’m focussing on Paris, but at times it extends past the city limits. As I continue to learn and grow and take care of me, I’ll share my experiences with you.