French Wisdom for the Soul: Nurturing Well-Being and Personal Development

The French have always been know for their ability to embrace the emotional side of life. This is why Paris is often referred to as the “City of Love”. Have you been hoping to adopt a similar mindset or to connect with your inner self?

Although those who have been bitten by the wanderlust bug could very well choose to participate in a private French class before exploring regions such as the Riviera or Aquitaine, there are other ways to imbue a decidedly French “flavour” within your soul. Let us examine some practical suggestions that can be used on a daily basis and with very little effort.

Take Inspiration from the Best

It can be difficult to find a bit of much-needed inspiration within today’s hectic world. This will often lead to feelings of isolation or a sensation that our actions have little impact upon society as a whole.

Thankfully, changing this perspective is easier than you may have been led to believe. Many find it useful to adopt French proverbs as a means to find inner direction and peace. Be sure to check out this comprehensive list; you will be impressed by the sheer variety as well as how specific phrases may relate to your current situation.

Live Life at a Slower Pace

Western society has become wrapped up in the notion that more is better. We need to work more hours to earn more money to buy more creature comforts to feel more connected. However, this is certainly not the way humans were intended to live. Why not instead aim to follow the relaxed lives of regions such as the Pyrenees or the Côte d’Azur? Similar to other nations such as Spain and Portugal, French citizens tend to take life in stride as opposed to viewing it as a race. After all, we are only given so much time upon this earth and no one knows exactly when theirs may come to a halt.

A Truly French Mentality

One common expression throughout France is “Mangez bien, riez souvent, aimez beaucoup”. This roughly translates to “Eat well, laugh frequently and love as much as you can”. In other words, seize the day as much as possible. The French will often use such a phrase to comfort a friend who is enduring a difficult moment or recently suffered a loss. This mantra can serve to remind us all that life is about the journey as opposed to the destination. It will also help to put things into perspective in order to better appreciate the “big picture”.

Of course, personal development will also require striking a balance between the maxims outlined above and your real-world responsibilities. The main point to remember here is that self-improvement takes time and commitment. Although not all of us may be able to hop on a plane and life out our lives on a French vineyard, there are many ways in which we can become inspired by what this nation has to offer.