French Inspiration for a Beautiful Life

We talk a lot about creating a beautiful life here at Life With Dee and I’m always on the lookout for inspiration. Let’s examine one of my favorites ~ French inspiration for a beautiful life.

French Inspiration for a Beautiful Life

Here are ten French-inspired ideas for creating a beautiful life:

 

Make Mealtime Special

The French consider mealtime to be almost sacred. Follow their example by eating together at the table. Use real dishes, eat in courses, take your time and enjoy conversation.

Create a Beautiful Life: Cloth Napkins and Real Dishes

 

Enjoy Daily Rituals

Create enjoyable rituals to anchor your day and remind you to enjoy life. I’ve shared a number of my rituals here on the blog to give you some ideas for establishing your own. 

Parisian Morning Rituals That Will Upgrade Your Daily Routine

 

Make Walking a Habit

Walking is simply a way of life for most French people and surely contributes to their overall health. For many of us in the U.S. it takes a concerted effort to “get in our daily steps”. But it’s well worth the effort. If, like me, you don’t live in a walkable community, you’ll have to be more creative. One of my current goals is to make a daily walk part of my regular routine. 

 

Reject Excessive Consumerism

For a number of reasons, the French are less likely to be materialistic. They tend to shun overconsumption. Homes and apartments are smaller, many don’t have closets, and they have less disposable income. But just because one might have the means to buy more “stuff” doesn’t mean one should. Consider creating a capsule wardrobe of quality clothing and avoid purchasing things just because it’s the latest trend.

 

Look Your Best

Each day make a point to dress attractively, even if you aren’t going anywhere. Fix your hair and put on a bit of makeup. Add some simple jewelry and a spritz of your favorite perfume. With practice, you can look put together in less than 15 minutes. The French woman values her appearance and that no doubt contributes to her self-confidence. 

 

Consider the Environment

Be environmentally conscious. Such things as reusable bags, buying produce from markets rather than sealed in plastic, hanging clothes to dry, etc. are simple ways to have less impact on our increasingly fragile environment. 

 

Practice Doing Nothing

One of the things I adored about Paris was the way people would spend time just sitting at a sidewalk café doing nothing more than sipping coffee and watching people walk by. There is real value in taking time to do nothing. Learn to say “non” to some of life’s demands and make time to simply enjoy life. 

Slow Down and Savor Life

Eat Seasonally

The French value the freshest and tastiest foods so eating seasonally is a no-brainer. They have many farmers markets which are at the heart of their food culture. Look up what’s in season in your area and plan your meals around those foods. Everything will taste better and you’ll save money, as well.

 

Take Care of Yourself

Self-care isn’t an indulgence. Take a leisurely bath. Get a massage or a manicure. Make time for your hobbies. You’ll feel better about yourself and life in general.

Self-Care Routines for the Francophile

 

Indulge in Small Treats

Life is too short to deny yourself pleasure. Buy that weekly bunch of fresh flowers. Treat yourself to a delicious pastry once in awhile. Spend an afternoon with a good book instead of scrubbing the floor. You deserve it!

 

You may also enjoy…

Living a French-Inspired Life ~ 24 Ideas

 

If you enjoyed this post…

Check out the other French inspiration posts here on the blog.

I also have a private group on Facebook you might enjoy:

French Chic