YourpHLevel Newsletter - reflections into the New Year

Dear loyal subscriber, 💫

This isn't my usual post, but rather an invitation to pause, reflect, and set intentions for the exciting new ventures ahead in 2025! 🙏🌟

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each of you for the positive, constructive feedback on this platform. Your patience as I work on reinventing things for 2025 means the world to me. ❤️

Recently, I've undergone a major life shift—moving to a new country and stepping into a new role. 🌍💼 This change is of course a lot of hard work but has given me time for deep reflection, gratitude, and moments to simply breathe. As I reflect on my time in Spain which I am now making my new home, I wanted to share some insights with you, hoping they inspire you to embrace new adventures, prioritize your health, and make 2025 your best year yet. 💪✨

While moving to a new country prompts new routines and changes, you can conduct this right from where you stand - it takes only a willingness and an intentional commitment on your part.

While I can't yet say exactly where this journey will take the content and platform, I want to thank you for being a part of it. Please continue to follow along—exciting things are coming in 2025! 🎉

For now, I invite you to take a moment to breathe deeply 🌬️, step back, and set intentional goals for the year ahead—both for your personal growth and for your health. 🌱

I hope my reflections spark inspiration for you on your own journey. 🌟

**🌍 Life in Spain: Almost two Months In**

As I settle into life here I’ve been picking up on the little quirks and unique parts of daily living. Here’s what I’ve learned so far:

- 🛏️ Pillowcases: Their pillowcases are open on both ends! It’s such a small thing, but it drove me nuts at first. I’m slowly getting used to it, though I still miss the snug fit of Canadian ones.

- 🛌 Beds: Big beds aren’t common here. We went from a King in Canada to a Queen, and now we’re on a Full-size bed. It’s definitely cozy, but part of adapting to a new space!

- 🛒 the older and wiser generation : They wake up early for here at least, they sit and have their cortada coffees savouring the morning . They are rolling their little grocery bags (which I’ve nicknamed “bagiee carts”) to shop daily. Often, they’re holding hands with their partners. It’s one of the sweetest and most endearing things to see.

- 😊 Smiles: People here don’t smile much when you pass them on the street. But if you give them a big, friendly smile ( a good Nova Scotian one), they usually smile back – and it’s heartwarming when they do.

- ☕ Coffee Culture: Around 5 PM, you’ll see people enjoying coffee and dessert outdoors. It’s not rushed – just a relaxed part of daily life. Dinner doesn’t start until much later in the evening, so this break is almost sacred.

- 🏋️ Gym Hours: Forget early morning workouts! Most gyms here don’t open until later in the morning, so my 6 AM gym routine has vanished. Instead, I’ve been enjoying slower, more peaceful mornings.

- 🚶 Walking Everywhere: Living in the city means walking a lot. I haven’t driven in weeks, and honestly, I don’t miss it. Walking everywhere has become part of my routine.

- 🍺 Beer for Breakfast: Believe it or not, beer in the morning isn’t unusual here. We’ve seen people casually sipping beer at breakfast – maybe not at work, but definitely while out and about.

- 👶 Kids Out Late: Kids stay up late here! They’re out playing in parks (which are on nearly every corner) well into the evening. It’s great for staying active and social.

- 🍴 Lunch Breaks: Lunch here is a full, proper meal, and people take their entire hour to enjoy it. Eating at your desk or alone isn’t a thing – it’s all about slowing down and connecting.

- 🤗 Meeting Expats: If you meet an American or Canadian, don’t be surprised if they skip the handshake and go straight for a hug. It feels like a shared understanding of what it’s like to be a foreigner adjusting to a new culture.

- Everyday Phrases: Spaniards sprinkle “Si” (yes), “Buen” (good), and “Vale” (okay) into almost every sentence. It’s a habit I might just pick up!

- 🏃 Running: Running is huge here, and I’m slowly easing into it, taking a couple of runs each week. The energy of others is contagious!

- 🕰️ Slow Living: Things take time here – from paperwork to daily tasks. It’s been a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and embrace a “carpe diem” mindset.

2024 has been a year of growth, change, and learning. I’m so grateful for all the challenges and beautiful moments. Here’s to 2025 – let’s see what this next chapter holds!

💜 

Wishing you and your bugs health and vitality (as always),

Nadine

Scroll down for more….

Dr. Nadine Halawa, PharmD

Remember to move these mails to your primary inbox as opposed to promotions or updates so you don’t miss a beat!

Here is a favorite of mine…a picture I took on my sunrise run to Barceloneta beach…reminds me of new beginnings

Remember to move these emails to your primary inbox as opposed to promotions or updates so you don’t miss a beat!

If you like what you see, use this link to share with your friends and family —> YourpHLevel Newsletter