My Journey to Wellness: Jeanne Mackenzie

What does living life well mean to you?

For me, living life well is all about balance. I want to experience and see as much of this amazing world and city that I live in as possible. That’s why my weekends can look very different from one another - one weekend I might be sipping a glass of bubbles in a wood-fired hot tub or practising yoga at a retreat, the next hiking up a mountain, and the next dancing at a music festival. I believe that life is all about appreciating everything it has to offer, whether that's spending quality time with those who bring me joy (such as loved ones, dear friends, and even my cats), or dedicating time alone for self-care or activities that foster self-growth - embracing both the serene and the thrilling experiences.

What small habits do you practise to live life well daily?

The habits I prioritise to live life well revolve around continuous self-improvement and maintaining a healthy balance in all aspects of life. I make a point to engage in activities that stimulate my mind, such as listening to podcasts or reading, which keeps me continuously learning and growing. Physical activity is another cornerstone of my routine, whether it’s weight training, hiking, taking a yoga or Pilates class, or simply enjoying a long walk on the promenade (one of the times when I listen to podcasts). Movement is essential for both my body and mind.

Sleep is a non-negotiable for me - I ensure that I get at least eight hours of quality sleep each night to recharge and maintain my energy levels. To manage stress and anxiety naturally, I rely on adaptogens and magnesium supplements that support my well-being. I also indulge in magnesium / Epsom salt baths or a good sauna session to relax a couple of times a week.

Nurturing my gut health is also a priority. I take care to avoid caffeine (despite my love for coffee, I opt for a decaf flat white from my favourite coffee shops), as well as gluten and dairy, to protect my gut microbiome. I regularly incorporate pre- and probiotics or a good gut supplement into my routine. These habits, collectively, help me to feel my best and live life to the fullest.

Could you tell us more about your yoga journey?

I've been practising yoga on and off for years and have always loved it for its many benefits, such as improved flexibility, mental clarity, stress relief, and the sense of calm it brings with the meditation aspect. Yoga helps me to stay grounded and centred, whether I'm flowing through a challenging sequence or simply taking a few moments to breathe deeply, reset, and be present in the now. It's a practice that I return to time and again for its ability to enhance both my physical and mental well-being.

How do you use food and nourishment to live life well?

Balance is key for me. As I mentioned earlier, I prioritise gut health by avoiding gluten, dairy, and caffeine. Additionally, I make sure that I’m getting enough protein through shakes or meals. Chicken is a go-to protein source for me, but I also try to incorporate plenty of plant-based proteins, vegetables, and fruits into my diet.

That said, I believe in enjoying life’s pleasures, too. I love eating out and indulging in the occasional pastry or chocolate, though I often opt for dark chocolate or gluten-free treats from a farmers’ market or health shop such as Wellness Warehouse. For me, it’s all about striking a balance between nourishing my body and allowing myself to enjoy the foods I love, ensuring that my approach to food supports both my health and my happiness.

How does travelling help you to live life well?

Travelling plays a significant role in helping me live life well by broadening my perspective and enriching my experiences. Exploring new places allows me to immerse myself in different cultures, meet new people, and see the world from various viewpoints. It fuels my sense of adventure and curiosity, giving me the opportunity to discover both the beauty of distant landscapes and the hidden gems overseas or within my own city.

Travelling also provides a break from routine, offering me the chance to recharge, reflect, and return with fresh energy and inspiration. Whether it's a peaceful retreat in the beauty of Ballito, a vibrant city escape to London, or an island adventure, each journey contributes to my personal growth and reminds me of the endless possibilities life has to offer. Ultimately, travelling helps me to appreciate the diversity and richness of the world, making my life more fulfilling and balanced.

As a travel content creator, even if it’s on the side for now, travel is also a key source of inspiration and creativity for me. It pushes me to constantly improve my content and become more skilled with my equipment, whether it's my drone, camera, or other tools. Each new destination provides a fresh canvas for me to capture and share unique experiences.

Travelling also enhances my work as a freelance marketer with clients in the hospitality sector. The firsthand experiences I gain while travelling allow me to create more authentic and engaging content for my clients, ensuring that I can deliver high-quality visuals and stories that resonate with their audiences.

What wisdom or advice would you like to share with our readers?

Accept that there are things beyond your control, and give yourself the gift of rest. Follow through on the promises you make to yourself. Explore all the stress and trauma release options available to you, from yoga, breathwork, and therapy to magnesium and adaptogens (I personally love Tension and Trauma Release Exercise Therapy, or TRE). If something in your life is causing you to burn out, take a step back to reassess its value. Prioritise your relationships, and practise gratitude. Last but certainly not least, keep well hydrated and always wear sunscreen!

For more information or to get in touch, follow @jeannesadventures on Instagram or @jeannes_adventures on TikTok.