Our bodies speak to us if we listen carefully. Growing up, I had my own definition of wellness—embodying strength, success, loveability, and worthiness. This was my idea of “perfect.” As a theatre enthusiast, I found solace on stage, dancing and singing. The applause was my validation, making me feel fulfilled. However, as performing became my identity, a crucial part of me started to diminish. Although I was living my dream, I lost touch with my essence offstage.
I vividly remember the day that changed everything. Walking into my favourite coffee shop in Cape Town, an injury and malnourishment had taken their toll. It was then I realized the masks I wore needed to come off. Being asked about my next performance triggered a profound realization—I was no longer the performer I used to be. This moment marked the beginning of my journey towards genuine wellness, listening to what I truly needed, rather than fulfilling others’ expectations.
The concept of wellness I held was heavily influenced by mentors and my surroundings. Striving to meet their expectations, I gradually lost my voice and identity. Acknowledging this disconnection was the first step in reclaiming my autonomy, leading me to question everything I knew, break unhealthy patterns, and finally listen to my inner self.
The process of healing was transformative, involving forgiving those who had unknowingly steered me away from my path and shedding the protective masks I had donned for years. A friend’s honest advice about being true to myself was a pivotal moment in my journey, guiding me towards real transformation.
Wellness, as I’ve come to understand, involves a deep connection with one’s inner voice, integrating the mind, body, and heart. It’s about identifying and fulfilling personal health needs, beyond societal pressures and expectations.
True wellness asks us to be brave, to embrace new experiences, and to be patient with our own growth. It means paying attention to our physical health, including the often-overlooked aspect of gut health, which plays a crucial role in our overall well-being.
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve learned that wellness is not about external appearances or following the latest trends. It’s about nurturing a relationship with oneself that’s rooted in understanding and love. This journey includes recognizing the importance of gut health, which is indicative of how we process life itself. Our gut health influences our immune system, nervous system, and much more, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to wellness.
In a world where we often compare ourselves to others, real wellness is about turning inward and asking what we truly need to thrive. It involves unpacking years of programming and facing our old patterns with courage and willingness. This journey of self-discovery requires us to pack patience, process, time, and feeling into our toolkit, as we learn to listen to our bodies and minds.
As I reflect on my path to wellness, I see it as a canvas I’m continually repainting. This canvas was once marred by injuries, unhealthy relationships, and a disconnection from my needs. However, by granting myself the permission to start anew, I’ve been able to rediscover the joy in movement, the value of mental health, and the importance of authentic connections.
Wellness is more than a state of being; it’s a state of becoming, constantly evolving as we grow and learn about ourselves. It requires a commitment to self-exploration, the courage to ask for help, and the strength to forge our own path toward health and happiness.
In embracing my journey, I’ve come to realize that wellness is not a destination but a way of living. It’s about making choices that align with our deepest truths, allowing us to live in harmony with ourselves and the world around us. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that true wellness comes from within, from listening to and honoring our inner voice.
My message to anyone on the path to wellness is to cherish the journey. Embrace your unique story, listen to your body, and remember that true health encompasses mind, body, and spirit. Together, let’s redefine wellness, making it a personal, inclusive, and empowering journey for all.
Credits:
Edited by: Priyanka S
Photography: Ira Shambary
Producer: Alexey Bogdanov
Production: Mixtape
Make-up and Hair: Anna Vasileva
