Your Road to Wellness: Jess Ekstrom
Image of Jess Ekstrom, courtesy of Viviimage Photography
Wellness is not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. We all approach it differently. And I think we can benefit from hearing one another’s stories and strategies.
The “Your Road to Wellness” feature highlights people from all walks of life and their thoughts on wellness. (Would you like to be featured or know of someone who would be a good fit? Let me know!) This week, let’s catch up with Jess Ekstrom, founder of Headbands of Hope and Bright Pages.
Q: Who is your wellness inspiration?
Kate Rosenow, founder of Work Well With Kate. The way she balances work and life as an entrepreneur is what I'm aspiring to do.
Q: What is one piece of advice you’d give your younger self about wellness?
Rest is a requirement, not a reward. Listen to your body, and take a break whenever you feel like you need it. Your work will be better after a recharge.
Q: What do you typically do for exercise?
Hiking or high intensity interval training (HIIT).
Q: What do you consider your greatest wellness indulgence and why?
I love treating myself to professional massage. I carry a lot of tension in my neck and jaw, so massage is a monthly thing for me.
Q: What is your greatest self-care/wellness challenge, and how do you deal with it?
If I'm by myself, I'll work all hours of the day — and it's unhealthy. My husband is great at breaking up my day and encouraging me to close my computer and turn off my phone. Just taking a walk around the block is a great reset!
Q: What resource (e.g., website, blog, book, etc.) do you look to for wellness/self-care and why?
I use the Waking Up app for my daily meditation. I love learning the science behind meditation, and Sam Harris does a great job at explaining it.
Q: Which do you prefer to drink — green juice or bubbly? Why?
Green juice! There's something about the taste that makes me feel healthier as soon as I take the first sip.
Q: If you received $1 million to use for your wellness/self-care, how would you spend it?
Hire a personal chef and an in-house massage therapist.
Looking for a personalized approach to your wellness experience? I’ve spent a decade working as a wellness journalist (visiting more than 50 spas from Vail to Vienna) and 20 years in the fitness industry. Let me help you create your perfect half or full day of wellness — wherever you live or might be visiting.