Refocusing on Health

One of the reasons I felt it was so important to leave the United States and to retire from working full time was to focus on living a healthier lifestyle. With my weight piling on while I worked a sedentary job, I really felt like the American Dream was going to kill me if I did not make a change.

So far, I am moving far more in Ecuador than I could dream of while working in the United States (we have no car, so we walk whenever feasible). However, the stress of such a big move caused a shingles outbreak. Now that the outbreak is mostly cleared up (after three weeks) and my daughter is in pre-school, I have a new opportunity to focus on joyful movement, adapting to a healthier diet, and making self-care a priority.

Living a healthier lifestyle in Cuenca can be a joyful journey, especially when it comes to movement. The city’s stunning landscape, with its winding cobblestone streets, riverside paths, and nearby mountains, makes physical activity feel less like exercise and more like an adventure. Whether it’s taking a morning stroll along the Tomebamba River, joining a local yoga class, or hiking in Cajas National Park, I plan to make movement a natural and joyful part of daily life. The temperate climate year-round also means there’s always an opportunity to get outside and stay active without the extremes of hot summers or cold winters.

Another cornerstone of my wellness journey in Cuenca is embracing a whole food diet. The vibrant mercados throughout the city offer an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes grown locally in the fertile Andes soil. Shopping at places like Mercado 27 de Febrero has already become part of my weekly routine. Instead of relying on processed foods, my family can enjoy colorful produce, fresh herbs, and traditional Ecuadorian staples like quinoa, beans, and corn. Preparing meals with these nutrient-rich ingredients not only supports better health but also connects us to the local traditions of wholesome, farm-to-table cooking.

Finally, making time for self-care is an essential part of thriving in Cuenca’s slower-paced lifestyle. The city encourages mindfulness with its many quiet plazas, riverside benches, and cozy cafés perfect for reflection or journaling. I am looking forward to a visit to Baños to experience the local hot springs and mud bathes. It is an exciting time for me to just slow down, breathe, and enjoy simple pleasures.