The value of the"well" lifestyle

Thoughts on the value of nutrition and wellness: Is Cape Town a “well” city? Does it foster a wellness lifestyle? Exercise?

Today I woke up and went to campus to get a few things organized for class registration, which is Friday. I needed to go to an appointment with the head of the Humanities Department in an effort to get approved for the Medical Anthropology class that I am really wanting to take. After that my friend Isa and I met up with Paige and Rachel. We sat in the middle of campus, taking in the people, sounds, air, sunshine and daily hustle and bustle. I can’t wait to find my little spots on campus to journal and read. We bought UCT sweatshirts from the campus bookstore—I’m feeling like this is starting to be my place. From there we went into town, near Long Street, which is similar to Bourbon Street in New Orleans. This is where most of the big bars are and where the majority of our going out nights are spent. During the day though, Long Street is an amazing place to go shopping and take in the city. There are a few traditional African Markets and many many vintage thrift stores. We bounced for a few hours through them, finding organic healthy restaurants along the way. I was loving every single second of it. Each place has their own feel. This brings me to the topic of wellness here.

It is obvious that South Africans value their health and wellness. Cape Town for sure is considered an alive and well city—and I think that’s really special. It makes me feel so happy. When people value their health and bodies, it creates a common ground. Anyone can relate to feeling good and whole about themselves. I think those values also add to the character of the people here. When you care about yourself and feel good about who you are that reflects your relationships with other people.

So what makes Cape Town a wellness hub? Many reasons.

The nature beauty of the city pulls people to spend a majority of their time outside. Walking, hiking, beaching, amazing weather, sunshine and nature—it’s all at the tip of your fingers and with that easy accessibility you can make it a part of your life that much quicker.

There also is a huge value of fresh food products. There are numerous health markets and outdoor markets focusing on the concept of farm to table, clean eating cuisine. These are also just simply part of their culture, they don’t up the prices like an all organic market would be in the US. Healthy food should be affordable for everyone regardless of socioeconomic status.

Every Saturday in an area called Woodstock there is this absolutely incredible market- The Old Biscuit Mill. I went last Saturday and was very close to tears. I loved it so much and my friends and I have already decided that we want to go every single week. It is filled with small vendors selling healthy, organic, locally sourced food. I want to try every vendor by the time June rolls around. The vibe here is happy, relaxed and so exciting. Local bands come and play South African music and there is a whole section of thrifty, hipster knick knacks and clothes. It definitely goes along with the wellness theme of the city.

Happy people equal a happy body.

I’m feeling really good today- present, content and thankful. Tomorrow is going to be another exciting day.

Some good songs to listen to that’s been keeping me alive and well:

-Things Are Changin” by Gary Clark Junior

-This Feeling by Alabama Shakes

-The Crane Wife 3- The Decembrists