Living Well in Valencia: A Journey of Health and Wellness

Hello Friends! I'm thrilled to share my experiences and lessons learned from my recent move to the vibrant city of Valencia. In this blog post, I'll dive into my journey of health and wellness, exploring the unique aspects of living in this beautiful coastal city, and the valuable insights I've gained so far.

Discovering Valencia: A Wellness Oasis

Valencia, a city seamlessly blending history and modernity, emerges as a captivating wellness oasis. With ceramics dating back 7,000 years, the city's ancient roots underscore a legacy of innovation. Nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia offers natural spaces like the Turia Gardens for outdoor activities and contemplation. The city's commitment to well-being extends to its culinary scene, emphasizing the renowned Mediterranean diet with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether strolling through the historic Old Town or immersing oneself in the modern marvels of the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia invites a holistic lifestyle where ancient traditions and contemporary comforts converge to create a harmonious haven for wellness seekers.

The Mediterranean Diet and Wellness

One of the first things I embraced in Valencia is the Mediterranean diet. Fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and olive oil are staples in this cuisine. Ummmm Yum, am I right?! Not only is it delicious, but it's also known for its numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting overall well-being.

Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a staple in the Mediterranean diet, providing monounsaturated fats that are considered heart-healthy. Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, are also included, providing omega-3 fatty acids.

Moderate Consumption of Dairy and Poultry: Dairy products, particularly Greek yogurt and cheese, are consumed in moderation. Poultry, eggs, and other lean protein sources are also part of the diet but are not the primary focus.

Red Wine in Moderation: The Mediterranean diet often includes red wine in moderation, usually consumed with meals. Red wine contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which may contribute to heart health.

Limited Red Meat and Sweets: Red meat is consumed sparingly, and sweets and desserts are typically enjoyed on special occasions. The emphasis is on choosing lean protein sources and minimizing added sugars.

Herbs and Spices for Flavor: Herbs and spices play a significant role in Mediterranean cuisine, providing flavor without the need for excessive salt. Common additions include garlic, basil, rosemary, and oregano.

Social and Lifestyle Factors: The Mediterranean diet is not just about food; it encompasses a holistic lifestyle. Meals are often enjoyed with family and friends, encouraging a relaxed and social atmosphere during dining. Regular physical activity, such as walking, is also emphasized. Health Benefits: Numerous studies suggest that the Mediterranean diet is associated with various health benefits. It has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and improved weight management. The abundance of nutrient-rich foods and the focus on healthy fats contribute to overall well-being.

Cycling Culture and Active Living

Valencia's flat terrain, bike-friendly infrastructure, and warm climate make it a haven for cycling enthusiasts. It didn't take long for me to join the locals in peddling through the city, enjoying the sense of freedom and staying active as I explore the stunning scenery. Discover the city at your own pace with Valenbisi, Valencia's bike-sharing system.

Cruise through the charming streets, cycle along the Turia Gardens, and enjoy the flexibility to explore iconic landmarks like the beach or the City of Arts and Sciences. With easily accessible bike stations, Valenbisi offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to experience the best of Valencia's diverse attractions. Grab a bike, feel the breeze, and immerse yourself in the city's beauty while maintaining an active and sustainable approach to exploration.

Historic architecture:

Uncovering the medieval charm of Valencia by exploring its historic castles was an amazing experience. The Torres de Serranos were built in the late 14th century, stand as majestic gateways to the city and are emblematic of Valencia's medieval past. From the iconic castles offering panoramic views to the amazing surrounding landscape with its rich history, these places provide a glimpse into Valencia's past and offer a scenic backdrop for your exploration.

Fallas Festival:

The Fallas Festival, known locally as "Las Fallas," is an exhilarating and culturally rich celebration that takes place annually in Valencia, Spain. I was so excited to find out I would be here for this amazing festival. The festival typically runs from March 15 to March 19, culminating on Saint Joseph's Day but, there are celebrations all throughout march surrounding the festival. Check out the photo above to get a closer look at the elements that make Fallas a captivating and unforgettable experience.

Artists and local communities spend months creating intricate and often satirical sculptures made of combustible materials such as wood, papier-mâché, and polystyrene. These sculptures, often reaching impressive heights, are displayed throughout the city streets. Competitions are held to evaluate the fallas, and awards are given for categories such as creativity, craftsmanship, and overall artistic excellence. Each neighborhood typically has its own falla, and these competitions contribute to the competitive spirit of the festival. On the night of March 18, known as Nit del Foc (Night of Fire), the fallas are illuminated with intricate lighting displays. This night is dedicated to showcasing the artistic beauty of the sculptures before their eventual fate. The end of Fallas occurs on the night of March 19 and the early hours of March 20 with La Cremà. In a symbolic and spectacular event, all the fallas are set ablaze called La Cremà (The Burning). This act of burning the sculptures represents the ephemeral nature of art and life, and it's a cathartic conclusion to the festival.

City of Arts and Sciences:

One of the first things I got to experience in Valencia was stepping into the future with a visit to the City of Arts and Sciences. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, is a stunning ensemble of futuristic buildings. From the Hemisfèric to the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, each structure is a testament to Valencia's commitment to innovation and culture. It is a forward-thinking approach to architecture, science, and culture. Its futuristic designs, commitment to sustainability, and integration with the natural surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Valencia. The complex stands as a testament to the city's dedication to innovation and the seamless integration of art and science in a visually stunning and educational environment.

Orange Trees:

Valencia's streets adorned with fragrant orange trees not only add to the city's aesthetic appeal but also hold a significant place in its history and culture. The presence of these iconic trees is something I had heard about but, did not realized how many I would see. It is a testament to Valencia's agricultural heritage and commitment to preserving its historical identity.

Historical Significance: The cultivation of orange trees in Valencia dates back centuries, with the trees introduced to the region by the Moors during their rule. Over time, orange groves became an integral part of Valencia's landscape, contributing to the city's identity and economy.

Harvesting Season: The vibrant orange hue of the fruit becomes particularly prominent during the harvesting season. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the sight of Valencia's streets adorned with the vivid colors of ripe oranges, creating a picturesque scene that captures the essence of the city. There are mechanical shakers or harvesters that may be used to gently shake the branches, causing excess fruit to fall to the ground. While these machines can expedite the process, care is taken to minimize damage to the remaining fruit and the tree itself. (I literally marked it in my calendar so I could see this in the process! haha)

Mindfulness and Beach Therapy

Valencia's proximity to the sea has been a significant source of peace and inspiration for me and is one of the main reasons I moved here. The calming sound of the waves and the breathtaking sunsets have become essential parts of my daily mindfulness practice. The beach serves as a reminder that wellness is not only about physical health but also about the well-being of the mind and soul.

Well-Being

Valencia also provides excellent healthcare services, which is an essential component of overall wellness. Sports (Padel is a popular one), outdoor workout classes, beach volleyball, running groups and more, make it really easy to live a healthy lifestyle here.

In Conclusion: A Journey of Wellness

My journey to Valencia has been a remarkable experience, filled with valuable lessons in health and wellness. This coastal city's unique combination of a healthy Mediterranean diet, active lifestyle, work-life balance, and a vibrant wellness community has reinforced my belief in the importance of holistic well-being.

As I continue to explore and learn in this beautiful city, I am excited to share more insights and experiences with you. Living well in Valencia is not just a destination; it's an ongoing journey, and I look forward to embracing every moment of it.

Stay tuned for more updates and wellness adventures from the heart of Valencia. Here's to a life filled with health, happiness, and endless discoveries!

-Coach Tiff