The French possess a kind of natural insouciance that translates across their cuisine and into their décor. Unsurprisingly, this nonchalance influences their approach to health and wellness as well—a field typically punctuated by fad diets and food trends. For some insight into the covetable French way of life, MindBodyGreen recently spoke with editorial makeup artist and native Parisian Violette Serrat.
Violette, who does not use her last name professionally, has amassed quite the Instagram following for her work with Vogue Paris, CR Fashion Book, and more. The makeup artist recounted her unique approach to wellness, starting with her interesting morning routine: "When I wake up, the first thing I do is brush my teeth and my tongue—it's super important to remove the toxins that your liver cleansed all night and left on your tongue," she told Mindbodygreen. "You definitely don't want to swallow them! Then I drink a warm (not hot) glass of water. I used to drink it with lemon juice, but my Ayurvedic doctor Pratima told me that lemon wasn't right for my dosha."
Violette also emphasizes the importance of dietary balance. "For breakfast, it's all about pleasure. I never diet, but I'll eat more healthy (but never eat less) if produce available isn't as fresh or natural as possible," she explains. "That doesn't fit my epicurean personality! I love food, life, and pleasure." The following six products also make an appearance in Violette's typical day:
- Rosemary herbal tea to cleanse the liver
- Holy Green herb juice from Stephan Jaulin
- Ingestible skin elixirs from CAP Beauty
- Bluebonnet Kosher Fish Oil
- Turmeric supplements
- Vitamin D
Finally, true to Parisian form, Violette never passes on a fine wine. "I avoid gluten and dairy for the most part, but I drink good wine," she confesses. "It's important to me to listen to my desires—I am not a saint, so you will totally see me eating Camembert, baguettes, and drinking the good grape." Amen to that.
What are your thoughts on the French approach to wellness? Share your opinion below!
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