ASK FOR YOUR OWN WELLNESS EXPERIENCES IN ATHENS

Sophie Themelis, Wellness Coach, Pilates Instructor, Free Spirit.

Athens is more than just the blue sky, the Acropolis, iced coffees, spicy feta cheese in a Greek salad, a hidden tavern in Plaka, the sound of the bouzouki and a few glasses of ouzo!

Athens is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in Europe, visited by many history and art lovers, nature admirers, foodies and adventure lovers. Sometimes tourists live longer in a city than its inhabitants. Athens is one such case. How many of us have experienced some of the wellness practices I suggest next?

Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon, Sounion.

Stop for a moment and think about how you can do this? The answer lies in living as an ancient Greek lived. Sleep well, eat healthy foods, walk, be physically and mentally balanced, grounded and find your inner peace. First, plan a day or two in which you will spend a quiet and relaxing evening with the intention, the next day, to follow a wellness programme.

Wake up before dawn and catch the first train at 5:30am. Get off at the Acropolis metro station. Walk at a brisk pace for ten to fifteen minutes to reach the hill of the Supreme Court and watch the magic of the sunrise behind the Acropolis as the church bells begin to ring. These magical moments will help you connect with Mother Earth. Afterwards, take a stroll through the Ancient Agora in Thiseion. Continue your tours and “awaken” your senses. See, smell and taste wonderful spices, herbs and oils in small shops around Athinas Street.

Η μαγεία της ανατολής του ηλίου πίσω από την Ακρόπολη

Start your day with a walk in the National Garden. Located right in the heart of the city, this garden offers peace and tranquillity. It is ideal for a walk, a workout or even a picnic.

The National Garden of Athens for unique moments of relaxation and discovery

When it comes to spiritual well-being, the words of the Greek mathematician and philosopher, Pythagoras, come to mind: “Learn to be silent. Let your quiet mind listen and absorb.” Pythagoras spoke about the importance of silence and the value of prayer and meditation. There is no better place than Athens to do both. Countless churches and chapels are spread throughout the city for you to visit and perhaps light a candle and pray.

As far as meditation is concerned, the options are again many. Although you can meditate anywhere, these wonderful locations are ideal for mindfulness exercises:

Lycabettus, which is visible from every part of Athens, is accessible on foot. At the top of the hill stands the white-washed church of Agios Georgios. The view of the city from above will make your heart skip a beat and at the same time you will feel peace, tranquility and harmony.
The hill of Filopappou is another great location for walking, jogging, meditation and picnics. It is located between the Acropolis and Thiseio and offers great views of Athens and the Acropolis.

Speaking of peaks, don’t forget the mountain of Penteli with its paths, springs and waterfalls. Interestingly enough, there is a specific location from which one can enjoy both sunrise and sunset without moving from one’s seat. There are few organised hiking trails in Penteli, unlike in Ymittos and Parnitha, where the paths are marked. Hikes in these mountains bring hikers in direct contact with nature, cultivating awareness, respect and appreciation for life in all its forms. Our wellbeing lies in the wellbeing of our habitat.

Take a few hours for a session with a natural face and body treatment in a thalassotherapy centre – Spa. Some of these healers use organic products that are grown, preserved, distilled in monasteries all over Greece where monks and nuns collect roses, wild chestnuts and other plants. Without chemicals and additives. Enjoy a massage and an invigorating body scrub using candles, organic soaps and seductive essential oils. Drink black mint tea served with a free loukoumaki in most of the city’s hammams and visit an excellent wellness location, Lake Vouliagmeni with its thermal waters, a stunning natural outdoor spa, just 20 minutes from the centre of Athens.

To top off this excellent self-care treatment, enjoy a smoothie with colourful fresh fruits and vegetables! If you have time, enjoy a brunch at one of the many healthy food spots that are popping up in various areas of Athens. They use organic ingredients and superfoods derived from small farms. Some even make products on the spot, such as cashew milk, energy bars, special vegan wraps, taking healthy eating to another level with a creative spirit. When was the last time you had a scoop of vanilla or cocoa ice cream made with extra virgin olive oil? The epitome of the Mediterranean diet cannot be considered complete without a glass of red wine and a cup of Greek coffee, both packed with antioxidants. Ideally, enjoy your coffee in a small picturesque café.

Take some time to explore the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, which, in addition to the National Library and the National Opera, has a huge park that hosts countless recreational programs: pilates, yoga, tai chi, qi gong, games and more. Let’s say it’s a paradise for joggers and cyclists. However, due to the coronavirus many of these activities have been suspended.

Jog along Vassilis Sophia Avenue, making sure to pass by the statue of the Runner. This impressive glass statue of an athlete running will inspire and enhance your course.
Finish your day enjoying the Sunset at Sounion. Visit the Temple of Poseidon at 18:30 and on the way back stop at the beach of KAPE Legraeon. Descend the 99 steps that separate you from the dreamy island-like beach. Take a dip at the idyllic time of sunset. Be sure to bring flashlights and picnic supplies, but don’t overload, as you’ll have to climb those 99 steps!

Most of the proposals are all-weather. Even if the coronavirus persists, you can stay safe, wear a mask and keep your distance. Get up off the couch, get out of your comfort zone, dare, discover, discover, get energized and at the same time feel free to create your own wellness experiences. You will never look at Athens with the same eyes again once you discover its secrets.