Wellbeing rituals.
Growth Through Wellbeing: Insights from Vanessa Marx
Growth is an ongoing journey, one that requires intention, resilience, and self-compassion. Vanessa Marx, Executive Chef at the Bingham Riverhouse, has cultivated a personal wellbeing strategy that not only supports her demanding career but also nourishes her personal growth. Her approach integrates mindful practices, health-conscious choices, and a deep respect for nature, providing a holistic blueprint for anyone seeking to enhance their own life.
Vanessa Marx’s Wellbeing Strategies
Vanessa’s journey is a testament to the power of small, consistent actions. For her, growth begins with simple, daily practices that align with her values and support her health. As a type 1 diabetic, Vanessa understands the importance of managing stress and making dietary choices that keep her body balanced.
One of the key elements of Vanessa’s approach is her focus on nutrition. She advocates for a diet that is low in sugar and refined foods, and rich in wholesome, nourishing ingredients. Vanessa prepares sweet treats that cater to her health needs, such as her signature tahini fudge, made with raw cacao, coconut oil, and adaptogenic mushrooms.
She emphasises the value of incorporating small rituals into daily life, such as drinking water first thing in the morning, adding collagen and cinnamon to her coffee to balance blood sugar, and baking her own low-gluten, seed-packed bread for nourishment throughout the week. By making her own food, she not only controls what she consumes but also finds joy and satisfaction in the process.
Resilience
But growth, as Vanessa shows us, isn’t just about the physical body; it’s also about cultivating mental and emotional resilience. One of her favourite strategies is wild swimming, which she practices throughout the year. This ritual not only boosts her immune system but also clears her mind, reduces inflammation, and helps her manage the high stress levels that come with her role as an executive chef. Vanessa also integrates yoga, ecstatic dance, and meditation into her routine, recognizing that movement and mindfulness are key to maintaining a balanced state of being.
Being in Nature
Another essential aspect of Vanessa’s growth strategy is her connection to nature, particularly through foraging. She frequently gathers wild plants and herbs, which she incorporates into her cooking, adding both flavor and medicinal benefits to her dishes. This practice keeps her grounded, reminding her of the abundance and healing potential of the natural world.
Three Essential Oils to Support Growth
Young Living's Valor®: Valor is a blend known for promoting courage, confidence, and self-esteem. It’s perfect for those moments when you need to face challenges head-on or embark on new ventures. Applying Valor to your wrists or the back of your neck can help you maintain a balanced, centered mindset, supporting your personal growth.
Young Living's Stress Away™: This blend combines the calming and uplifting properties of lime, vanilla, and lavender. Stress Away is ideal for those who need to manage daily stress and find inner peace. Diffuse it during meditation or apply it topically to soothe your nerves and create a sense of tranquility.
Thieves: This blend of Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Rosemary is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. By supporting your body’s natural defenses, Thieves helps maintain your physical health, which is foundational for growth. A healthy body is better equipped to support a resilient mind.
These blends can be used in various ways, such as diffusing them, applying them topically (diluted as needed), or incorporating them into meditative or therapeutic practices. Each blend has specific properties that can support emotional well-being, aiding in the journey from suffering to a place of safety, purpose, and healing. I am a Brand Partner with Young Living if you wish to order these oil blends at a discount.
Do you want to join our next Brave New Girls Wellbeing Growth Retreat? Find out more.
Ten Actionable Steps for Personal Growth
Start Your Day with Intention: Begin your day with a practice that sets a positive tone, such as meditation, journaling, or a mindful cup of tea.
Incorporate Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on foods that nourish your body, like whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Exercise Regularly: Find a form of movement you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, swimming, or a brisk walk, and make it a regular part of your routine.
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate moments of mindfulness throughout your day to stay grounded and present.
Use Essential Oils: Integrate essential oils like Valor, Thieves, and Stress Away into your daily routine to support your mental and physical health.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your body’s natural processes.
Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest each night, as sleep is crucial for physical and mental recovery.
Set Small Achievable Goals: Break down your growth goals into manageable steps that can be accomplished daily or weekly.
Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, whether through gardening, foraging, or simply taking a walk, to refresh your mind and body.
Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your progress and adjust your practices as needed to stay aligned with your growth journey.
Vanessa Marx’s approach to growth integrates mindful practices, a healthy diet, connection with nature, and the use of essential oils, offering a holistic path to personal development.
If you have worries around life’s juggles & health challenges, and want to grow a healthier, happier life, work with your Wellbeing Coach Lou Hamilton who will guide you through the steps you need to take, to get to where you want to be.
See which bespoke coaching package works for you & we can tailor them further to your growth needs.
