how wellness makes you feel like you're doing it wrong

akin to a toxic boyfriend

I have this refrain that repeats in my head, courtesy of my inner critic: “You’re doing it wrong”. We all have some version of this- maybe yours is “I’m not enough”, or “When is the other shoe going to drop?”. That nagging thought in the background that makes us feel anxious or insecure often comes from a protective part. A part of ourselves that has experienced something negative and is trying to avoid repeating the experience and the feelings that came along with it. The irony is, when we (subconsciously) put so much energy into avoiding something, the thing which we are trying to avoid is more present inside of us than ever.

Wellness culture pedals quick fix after quick fix, which makes us feel like our health and wellbeing is solely in our own control and if we aren’t operating at an optimal level, it must be our fault. Hormone issues? Take these supplements. Sleep problems? Buy this drink powder. Depressed? Get some exercise. This is what happens when you commodify healthcare-our capitalist system depends on you feeling shitty about yourself and listening to that voice. What would it be like to reclaim your inner critic, and steer it toward noticing these messages for what the are: advertisements. Not the key to your health and happiness, but just marketing. Because the more supplements we buy or protocols we try the more chances we are giving that voice to say that you’re doing it wrong. WE aren’t doing it wrong, wellness culture is.

If you’re feeling jerked around by wellness culture, you’re not alone. In April, I’ll be leading a What is Well group: we will gather weekly for zoom meetings to untangle some of this messaging and reclaim our inner voice, share our experiences and gain support in a group chat, and more. Sign up here!

I am so excited to go to the Le Marche region of Italy this fall! This retreat will be an incredible experience of travel and yoga. Our host, the gorgeous Oliveto Estates has two swimming pools, a yoga room, a platform deck for outdoor practice, a gym, dry sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi, not to mention amazing views and plenty of spaces to rest and relax. Enjoy three daily fresh farm to table meals prepared by our private chef, free time to relax by the pool or explore the region, and daily yoga. There are only 4 rooms available for this specialized, small group experience. Click here for more and reach out to me with any questions! 

Cheers to finding true wellbeing,

xoxo Gabrielle