A question of taking back control

According to Élodie Jacquemond, founder of the Holissence digital ecosystem that is all about establishing connections between individuals in search of natural well-being, it is high time for a paradigm shift.

"Happiness is not a consequence of beauty: it is beauty that reflects our happiness!"

"Happiness is not a consequence of beauty: it is beauty that reflects our happiness!" she explains. This means it is important to deconstruct our somewhat neurotic and passive definition of beauty. Unlike a constraint we impose on ourselves or a cream we apply, holistic beauty is a matter of awareness. It is a path involving introspection that translates into a decision: to do (oneself) good in order to enhance. In the end, it is the story of taking back control. Naturally, the way other people look at us matters because our social ties are reflected in their gaze. But under no circumstances should our choices be motivated by their approval. Holistic beauty empowers our concept of well-being and beauty by placing it firmly in our hands. It is no longer a question of waiting until after consumption, but instead of producing one's happiness. As Élodie expresses it: "Knowing what we no longer want is an excellent starting point. Refusing to submit to a lifestyle that is too artificial, fast-paced or anxiety-provoking can give rise to a whole new inner dimension. Thanks to the inspirational content, writing and testimonials of young women who decide to transform their lifestyle that can be found on the internet and social media, holistic beauty is now a more accessible approach.”

The power of letting go

You might be thinking that that all sounds well and good, but that inner peace can only be reached after 16 yoga poses, three of them standing on your head. Far from it!

Simply working on your breathing through sophrology exercises increases concentration, thus boosting creativity and self-satisfaction. Yoga and gentle sports, even in small doses, can increase flexibility in your limbs and therefore your mind.

 

This in turn optimizes your ability to adapt and to no longer suffer through certain situations. Meditating for two to three minutes a day, concentrating on each part of your body in order to feel it more clearly, develops awareness and inner calm. In other words, all the signs of love that you show your being will make you beautiful. Claire Nouy, founder of holistic beauty brand Atelier Nubio confirms that our radiance is a question of inner energy: "The charm we radiate, which is far more magnetic than mere cosmetic beauty, stems from positive thinking. To think that one is beautiful is to be beautiful. Of course, we have to give ourselves the means of achieving this goal by eating healthy and organic food, giving priority to sleep, making love, developing the full potential of facial massages etc. Nonetheless, the source of our well-being lies in gratitude for being oneself in the here and now." We couldn't have asked for a better conclusion.

text by Les Confettis
photos ®Maeva Delacroix