Over the past six months, I made a conscious effort to be more mindful of the media I consume, spending much of that time completely disconnected from social media. I’d somewhat expected this digital detox to have a positive impact on my mental health and productivity. This intentional break allowed me to be more present and engaged in my daily life, spending more time doing the things that make me feel good! However, feeling my best wasn’t just about eliminating one toxin; during my summer holiday in Europe, I discovered that the more notable improvement in my overall wellbeing came when I consistently incorporated specific, small changes in my daily routine.

As summer draws to a close, the beautiful weather this past week prompted me to reflect on my rejuvenating Mediterranean summer and the importance of remembering the little things in life that make us happy! These lessons were not just fleeting moments of vacation bliss. They were profound insights into how removing a range of lifestyle toxicities and replacing them with healthy habits brought greater joy and a noticeable sense of calm and wellness.

Before my son and I boarded our 9-hour flight to Athens, Greece, life felt like an endless race. As a busy single mom and small business owner, my days were packed with stress and responsibilities, leaving little room for 'me time.' Though wellness has always been my passion, I rarely had the energy to truly nurture my mind, body, and spirit. Then came my transformative European adventure with Italy capturing my heart and Greece rejuvenating my soul. On this journey, I immersed myself in a ‘whole body, mind, and soul detox’ that was about consistently doing the things that made me feel my best!!

This wasn’t just a digital detox—it was a 'whole detox'.  I’m excited to share these insights, which have helped me create an environment that enhances my overall well-being. I hope they inspire you to find moments of self-nurturing in your own everyday life.

Lesson #1: Wake Up with the Sun: A Morning Ritual

There’s something magical about greeting the day as the sun rises. Waking up naturally, instead of with an alarm, sets the tone for the whole day! While it may sound simple, this practice eases anxiety and creates a sense of calm. In Greece, I left the curtains open one morning and woke up with a noticeable feeling of peace and joy!  I deliberately allowed the soft morning light to gently wake me up for the rest of my holidays. 6:15 a.m. might not be optimal for everyone, especially on vacation, but I truly cherished the quiet, early mornings on the balcony, sipping coffee, gently easing into the day and watching the sun come up and the world come alive.

Bringing It Home: While we may not all have a Mediterranean sunrise, we can still create morning routines that foster tranquility and serve as a calming reminder of the joy that comes from slowing down. Consider waking up a bit earlier to enjoy a quiet cup of tea or coffee, meditate, journal, stretch or simply sit in silence before the day begins. You might even take a quiet moment to sit with your eyes closed for just a few minutes, gently letting yourself recenter. These mindfulness practices can reduce stress, boost mood and calm our mind before going out into the busy world.

Lesson #2: Embrace Movement as a Joy, Not a Chore

One of the most refreshing aspects of my trip was how naturally I incorporated physical activity throughout the day. Walking everywhere—whether to the local bakery, the beach, or famous landmarks—felt effortless and joyful. There was no traffic to navigate or parking to worry about; it was simply about enjoying the journey and discovering unexpected surprises along the way.

At home, exercise often felt like another task on my to-do list. This summer, however, movement became a joyful part of my daily rhythm! From strolling through the charming streets of Rome to kayaking the serene waters of the Argolic Gulf, hiking the ancient hills around Athens to snorkelling along the stunning coastline in Nafplio, every movement brought me closer to a sense of freedom and well-being.

Though this type of movement didn’t feel like exercise in the traditional sense, it made a significant difference in my overall well-being. I felt centered, present and more connected to my surroundings.

Bringing It Home: While walking everywhere may not be feasible in your daily life, seek out small, mindful moments of movement that bring you joy. Whether it’s adding a 15-minute walk to your morning routine, dancing in your living room, or playing a sport you love, these small shifts can help you feel more grounded and present. Be active because it feels good, not because you think you have to.

Lesson #3: The Healing Power of Nature and Grounding

Walking barefoot on the beach was one of the most soothing and uplifting experiences of my trip. The warm sand between my toes, the calming sound of the waves, and the refreshing ocean breeze worked their magic, helping me feel balanced and present. One of my favorite moments was running barefoot along the shore in the early morning, followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. With the world still asleep, it felt like nature was sharing its peaceful energy with me—it was truly transformative. Grounding myself in that beautiful setting cleared my mind and left me feeling refreshed, happy, and completely at ease.

Bringing It Home:Even if you can’t get to a beach, you can still tap into the benefits of grounding. Take a moment to walk barefoot in your garden, sit quietly under a tree, or even care for an indoor plant. These small connections with nature can help lift your mood, reduce stress, and offer a bit of calm in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Lesson #4: Savor the Simplicity of the Mediterranean Diet

During my time in Greece, I realized just how nourishing fresh, whole foods can be! My mornings kicked off with a glass of water (and my probiotic, of course!) and a comforting cup of coffee, paired with fresh pastries or yogurt drizzled in golden Greek honey. For lunch, I loved enjoying fresh bread with a light meal like a Greek salad or baked dishes packed with seasonal veggies—think stuffed tomatoes and veggie casseroles. Dinner was a treat, featuring fresh fish, perfectly grilled and drizzled with olive oil and lemon, add in the abundance of seasonal produce—ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, roasted peppers—and meals felt light yet deeply satisfying.

What I adored most was the simplicity. Each meal was crafted with whole, locally sourced ingredients, free from the overly processed stuff. This way of eating made me feel good—no tummy issues, no bloating, just a sense of lightness and satisfaction. I truly enjoyed savoring the natural flavors and being mindful of how I was nourishing my body.

Bringing It Home:Eating well doesn’t have to be a chore! You don’t need to hop on a plane or spend hours meal-prepping to feel your best. Start adding more whole foods to your meals—think colorful fruits and veggies, hearty whole grains, and delicious healthy fats like olive oil. It’s all about choosing real, minimally processed foods that support your health and make you feel your best!

Lesson #5: Stay Hydrated: Nourishing from Within

With temperatures hitting 40 degrees (and then some!), staying hydrated was non-negotiable during my European adventure. The heat made water my constant sidekick—I didn’t go anywhere without my trusty reusable bottle! Sipping water throughout the day became second nature, and honestly, it made all the difference. It kept me cool, refreshed, and ready to soak in every moment without feeling drained.

Water does more than just keep you from overheating. It’s like the ultimate multitasker, helping your body flush out toxins, keep your skin glowing, and improve digestion. I found that staying hydrated not only gave me more energy, but it also helped me stay focused and present, making everything—from wandering ancient ruins to relaxing on the beach—that much better.

And let’s face it, compared to drinking lots of soft drinks or alcohol, water’s a far better deal. Sure, those other drinks might feel satisfying in the moment, but without enough water, you're more likely to feel sluggish and foggy. Hydration is like the fuel your body actually needs to keep everything running smoothly.

Bringing It Home: Staying hydrated doesn’t have to be hard! Keep a water bottle nearby and make refilling it part of your daily routine. You can even jazz it up with a little lemon, cucumber, or berries for a fun twist. Your body will thank you, and you’ll feel the difference!

Lesson #6: The Freedom of Minimalism

Packing for six weeks was my crash course in living with less. With just a handful of outfits and essentials, decision-making became effortless. I didn’t miss a thing, and it felt amazing! By minimizing my belongings, I spent less time worrying about what to wear and more time fully immersing myself in the experiences around me.  It was refreshing to appreciate what I had without feeling overwhelmed by choices.

Having too many options can be mentally exhausting.  By simplifying, I was able to focus more on what truly mattered. The more choices we have, the more we second-guess ourselves and end up feeling less satisfied with our decision. Living out of a small suitcase in a hotel room taught me that less really is more. I knew exactly where everything was, and decision fatigue? Not a thing! We had just one ball to kick around, one pair of sandals each, and my skincare routine was as simple as it gets.

And let’s not forget how our surroundings impact our mental health. A cluttered space can clutter your mind, while a tidy environment brings a sense of calm and clarity. When I returned to Canada, I was hit with a wave of overwhelm from all the stuff in my home! I’ve done some decluttering, but this trip really motivated me to simplify even more. By keeping only what I truly need and love, I’m creating a sanctuary that nurtures my well-being.

Bringing It Home:Why not take a little time to declutter one area of your home—maybe your closet, kitchen, or garage? Donate anything you don’t use or love. By surrounding yourself with just the essentials, you create a refreshing space that supports your mental and emotional health.

Lesson #7: Rediscover the Joy of Reading

One of the best gifts I gave myself during those six weeks was time to read. I started with just two physical books, but after finishing them in the first few days, I discovered Kindle and suddenly had a whole library at my fingertips! I ended up reading 12 books, exploring everything from captivating fiction to insightful self-improvement. Reading became my little escape—a way to unwind, disconnect from the world, and reconnect with myself.

It’s amazing how reading can offer a mental break and melt away stress. Each book is a chance to learn something new, gain fresh perspectives, and broaden your understanding of the world. Whether you’re laughing out loud, feeling inspired, or simply getting lost in a story, reading is like a mini-vacation for the mind.

Bringing It Home: In our fast-paced lives, it’s all too easy to let hobbies slip away. So, I encourage you to carve out time for what you love. Whether it’s diving into a good book, painting, or tending to your garden, these moments of self-care enrich your life and help detox your mind from daily distractions. Make reading a priority—it might just become your new favorite way to recharge!

Lesson #8: Digital Detox and Mental Clarity

One of the biggest game-changers for me this summer was stepping away from all those digital distractions that usually seem to follow me on vacation. You know the drill: endless notifications, and mindless social media scrolling. This time, I had already largely disconnected from social media before the trip, and wow, what a difference it made! My mind felt clearer and more present, and I noticed I was calmer, more confident, and just generally more at ease than during previous holidays. I truly felt like I was living the life I want—Instagram-worthy or not!

Bringing It Home: Why not carve out some tech-free time in your day? It could be as simple as an hour before bed, a phone-free morning, or even a weekend without screens. These breaks can clear the mental clutter and help you feel more focused, relaxed, and truly present in your life.

Reflections and Moving Forward

As I settle back into my daily routine, I carry these invaluable lessons from my European adventure with me. Wellness isn’t a destination—it’s a journey of small, meaningful choices we make each day. During my travels, I felt a sense of freedom and connection I hadn’t experienced in a while. With the absence of toxic influences and the stress of daily life, I found it easier to prioritize my well-being. I slept well, embraced nourishing foods, and simply enjoyed being present.

I hope my experiences inspire you to carve out your own moments of wellness. Start with small steps—savor a fresh meal, take a leisurely walk, bask in the beauty of a sunrise, or lose yourself in a good book. These simple acts can lead to profound changes, helping you feel more connected, balanced, and fulfilled.

Remember, wellness is not a luxury; it’s a gift you can give yourself every day. By removing the toxic buildup from our systems—be it from unhealthy foods, stressful environments, or draining relationships—we allow our bodies to thrive as they are meant to. You deserve to feel your best, so embrace these opportunities to nurture yourself. Every moment you spend focusing on your well-being is a step toward a healthier, happier you. Let’s embark on this journey together, one mindful choice at a time.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—what small changes have made a difference in your wellness journey? Share in the comments below!

 ❤ Melissa