The Top 4 Takeaways from Our Recent Wellness Retreat in Provence

We recently had the incredible opportunity to attend a wellness retreat in Provence, France. Sounds dreamy, right?! We are still in awe that we were finally able to go to this magical place after having connected with the founder, Salem of Gallivant & Gather, years ago when we were both building our businesses. 

Beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, our recent wellness retreat here taught us lessons that go much deeper than the surface. 

Here are the top 4 takeaways we’re bringing home — and why they just might change how we move through the rest of the year.

1 - Slowing down is a power move

We live in a world that glorifies the hustle — but Provence reminded us that rest isn’t weakness, it’s fuel. From long lunches under the olive trees to the art of doing absolutely nothing without guilt, we learned that slowing down helps you tune back into what matters. You can’t hear your intuition over the noise of constant productivity.

Takeaway: Build small moments of slowness into your day — even five minutes of quiet or a mindful cup of tea can reconnect you to yourself.

2 - Presence creates beauty

Wearing our best selling Luna slippers in Ivory while in Provence 

There’s a reason the French make even the simplest moments feel beautiful. It’s not about perfection; it’s about presence. Whether it was the ritual of setting a pretty table, savoring a meal, or walking through the market with no agenda, we saw firsthand how beauty blooms when you’re fully here, now.

Takeaway: Make the everyday feel special. Light a candle, wear the outfit you love, or plate your lunch like it’s art — it’s not indulgence, it’s a practice in appreciation.

3 - True alignment feels effortless

The retreat drew together women from all over the world — and the magic happened not because we forced connection, but because we showed up as we are.

The people, practices, and habits that truly align with you won’t require constant pushing. They feel light, expansive, and effortless.

Takeaway: Notice where you feel drained vs. where you feel energized. Lean into the people and activities that make you feel most like you.

4 - Joy is the ultimate wellness practice

Wellness isn’t just green juice and meditation; it’s also laughter, adventure, and joy. Some of the most healing moments on this retreat were the unplanned ones: dancing barefoot in the grass, sharing late-night stories, jumping into cold water on a dare.

Takeaway: Don’t over-schedule your joy. Leave room for spontaneity, silliness, and moments that spark delight — they’re just as vital as any self-care ritual.

Until next time, Provence! We’ll be carrying with us this feeling of rejuvenation, peace and calm and dreaming of the next time we have the opportunity to return. 

PS: You don’t have to fly to Provence to live this out — sometimes all it takes is slipping on your favorite sandals, stepping outside, and remembering to savor the moment.

Stay tuned for our Provence South of France guide!