Environmental Wellness Abroad

Wellness Intern here, reporting from France!

Just wanted to share some things that I've learned about how the French care for their environment...

First, water and electricity are highly conserved here. Most restaurants, homes, and classrooms don't have air conditioning; they use good old-fashioned air to help cool things down. Also, you'll never see a dishwasher that's not packed to the max running; they make sure that it's a FULL load to make good use of the water. Same goes with washing clothes. And showers! SHORT! Get in, get out, and you'd better turn off that water when soaping up!

The second thing is transportation. While people have cars and drive around, the large majority of people take public transportation (buses and trams), and especially in Bordeaux, PEOPLE BIKE! You'd think you were at UC Davis with the amount of people who bike in this city! Not only is it great for the environment, but it's good for your health too! I was looking at transportation options for the region and found a bus company that tells you how much CO2 you save from being put in the environment if you take a bus for your trip instead of a car. How cool!

Finally (and it wouldn't be France without it)--food. Outdoor markets are very common all over Europe. It's local people, selling their local produce as well as goods like honey, jams, and pastries. Not only are you helping support local farmers, but you're also getting good quality food. At the grocery stores, there are big organic sections (called "Bio" in France) for things like soy milk, cereal, fruits... you name it!

So, while you're abroad, you can still take care of the environment, and maybe pick up habits to bring back home and share with friends and family!

Yay, environment!!!

Too Much Good Food!

Hello Again Everyone,

Wellness Intern here!I'm studying abroad in France right now: the country most well-known for their sophisticated appreciation for good food and wine.

I must say, there is PLENTY of good food here, and it could be quite easy to leave the country a few kilos heavier if one doesn't watch what they're eating.

Here's what I've discovered:

Resist temptation! Chocolatines may look and smell really good, but croissants have a lot of butter. Limit yourself to eating them as a treat, not a daily snack. Same goes with Nutella.... I know, bummer.

Slow down! I've always heard that the French love conversation, and I've discovered for myself that is very true! What also happens with good conversation, is that sometimes you're so busy talking, you forget to eat! When people get to talking, they tend to slow down on eating (because their mouths are already busy!) and end up not eating as much; probably because they've given their brain time to recognize the stomach it's not as hungry as it thought!

Desserts: Yes, they do make AMAZING desserts here, but typical French people eat yogurt, cheese, or fresh fruit for dessert. We may be used to ice cream bars, but adapting to the culture you're in, might mean healthier food choices!

Get Off Public Transportation!

Hi Everyone,
I'm a Wellness Intern and I'm studying abroad in Bordeaux, France this quarter. I wanted to share with you a physical wellness tip that I've discovered since arriving here.

I live quite far away from school, so I have to take a 40 minute tram ride everyday. I decided one day to get off a stop early and walk the rest of the way home, as a way to stretch my legs and to get to know the area I was living in. Walking along the street, I was able to better get to know the town that's now my home until December. I was able to smell the delicious boulangeries (bread and pastry shops), as well as the not so wonderful smelling poissonnerie (fish market), all while getting in my 30 minutes of recommended daily exercise.

Getting off a stop early is an easy way to stay fit and discover the sights and smells of the country you're visiting.