Life is a journey, not of survival but of profound self-discovery, balance, and harmony. Having once created my own wellness retreat in Dordogne at the Domaine de Sirius, I now carry its essence within me, living a lifestyle rooted in nature, simplicity, and deep reflection. Here, I’d like to share the principles and practices that guide my daily life and well-being.
Reconnecting with Nature
Nature is not just a backdrop to our lives; it is an active participant in our healing and growth. I start my mornings looking at the sky outside (if only I had a sea view with it!), welcoming the sun (and looking for its warmth on my skin!). When I can, I like to immerse myself in the rhythm of the earth—listening to the rustle of leaves, feeling the texture of soil underfoot, and observing the seasonal shifts. This practice reminds me of life’s impermanence and the beauty in its cycles.
Even in a more urban setting, I nurture a connection to green spaces. Cultivating my energetic roots is essential for my balance. Whether it’s tending to a small garden, foraging, or simply gazing at the clouds, reconnecting with nature grounds me and provides clarity.
The Nourishment of the Body and Soul
I believe deeply in the power of food to nourish both body and spirit. My meals are entirely plant-based, prepared with love and care, and when possible, featuring ingredients harvested the same day from a nearby garden (we don't have the amazing vegetable garden we had at Domaine de Sirius, but the local producers in Opio are amazing). I avoid processed foods entirely, finding joy in creating dishes from seasonal, local, and organic produce.
Cooking is an act of mindfulness, a time for creativity, and a way to connect with the abundance of nature. I love to cook several meals in the same time, instead of preparing food before each meal. In terms of recipes, my go-to inspirations include those from Ottolenghi, in particular his book Simple, as well as Lloyd Lang.
Daily Rituals for Inner Peace
I find strength in rituals—small, intentional acts that anchor my days. Whether it’s lighting a candle to set intentions, practicing meditation, reflecting on a tarot card or performing a fire ritual to release old energy, these moments create space for reflection and renewal.
One of my most cherished practices is the fire ritual. Writing down fears, regrets, or anything no longer serving me, I watch as they turn to ash, symbolizing transformation. This is especially powerful during the new moon, a time of fresh starts.
Books as Companions on the Journey
I’ve always been an avid reader, and books have been some of my greatest teachers. Here are a few that have profoundly influenced my philosophy:
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle – A guide to living in the present moment.
Why Are We on Earth? (pourquoi sommes-nous sur Terre, in French) by Michel Coquet – An exploration of life’s purpose.
A Nous La Liberté by Matthieu Ricard and Alexandre Jollien – Reflections on freedom and simplicity.
The Magic of the Gods by Graham Hancock – A captivating dive into the mysteries of our origins.
Reading isn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about expanding horizons, sparking ideas, and sometimes finding the words to articulate your inner world.
The Philosophy of Zero Waste Living
Sustainability is more than a choice; it’s a responsibility. At the Domaine, we embraced nearly zero waste practices, and I continue this commitment. From composting to choosing reusable materials and minimizing consumption, every small act aligns with the greater good of our planet.
Permaculture principles also remain central. I love nurturing soil health, whether on a small plot of land or simply supporting farmers who grow responsibly. And I often miss our forest at Domaine de Sirius, but I can't complain given how much nature surrounds Opio and Antibes back-country, where we live today.
Finding Balance Amidst the Chaos
In the hustle of modern life, balance can seem elusive. For me, it’s about prioritizing what truly matters: health, connection, and inner peace. I dedicate just 15 minutes daily to mindfulness, gratitude, and setting intentions:
- 10-12 minutes in the morning, with mantras, tarot and intentions
- 3-5 minutes before going to sleep, with gratitude and intentions
Whether through Qi Gong, Tibetan mantras, or tarot and journaling, these moments help me stay centered and resilient.
Sharing the Journey
Perhaps my greatest joy is sharing these practices and insights with others. Hosting retreats and connecting with individuals in search of purpose was a profound experience, and though I no longer live at the Domaine de Sirius, I still offer guidance remotely, and help others progress on their journey - each of us is on a different path and it is beautiful and perfect.
A Life Well-Lived
Living this way isn’t about achieving perfection but cultivating joy, balance, and presence in the everyday. It’s about stepping outside, breathing deeply, and realizing the vast interconnectedness of life.
My hope is that through these shared insights, you find inspiration to live more mindfully and authentically. Life is a gift, and every day is an opportunity to celebrate it fully.
If you would like to book a consultation with me, you can do so here. I will be happy to reflect with you on your life-style and how you see your journey forward, to help you embrace well-being every day.
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