From Struggles to Wellness: Inspiring Food Journeys in Malta

From Rock Bottom to Wellness: Inspiring Health Journeys and the Role of Food in Malta’s Wellness Revolution

In the ever-evolving world of wellness, the pressure to lead a perfect lifestyle can feel overwhelming. Yet the journey to better health often begins with small, intentional steps. Whether it’s overcoming physical illness, battling weight challenges, or navigating emotional upheaval, food and lifestyle changes play a pivotal role in transforming lives. Here in Malta, where Mediterranean cuisine and a slower pace of life lend themselves naturally to health and longevity, there’s much to learn from the inspiring stories of individuals who have turned their lives around.

Dominique Debroux, James Keppel, and Jenny Watson may not know each other, but their journeys are united by the desire to overcome life-threatening challenges and embrace wellness. Their stories serve as reminders that even when faced with adversity, the right mindset and small changes can lead to profound transformations.

Define Wellness and Start Small

Kristina Schuldt, a family medicine physician and wellness director for 14,000 employees of the Mayo Clinic Health System, emphasizes that wellness means different things to different people. In Malta, where mental, spiritual, and physical health are increasingly prioritized, locals can take inspiration from her advice: start with manageable changes.

Begin with hydration—an essential element of Mediterranean living. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle with daily intake markings to ensure you’re drinking enough. Restaurants in Malta are increasingly offering infused water options, such as mint and lemon, which provide hydration while adding a refreshing twist. If you’re looking to improve your diet, try sampling Malta’s superfoods like fresh artichokes, sweet potatoes, or nutrient-rich prickly pears. These local ingredients fit seamlessly into the island’s culinary heritage while promoting health.

“Go with the low-hanging fruit at first,” Schuldt advises. Whether it’s increasing daily steps by exploring Malta’s scenic walking trails or trying new foods at a health-conscious eatery in Valletta, small changes can lead to sustainable habits.

Healing Through Food and Holistic Care

Dominique Debroux’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of food and holistic care. Diagnosed with cervical cancer at 20, she combined minimal surgery and radiation with holistic treatments such as meditation, biofeedback therapy, and dietary changes. Years later, when Lyme disease left her exhausted and riddled with neurological symptoms, she once again turned to a holistic approach, incorporating herbs and nutrition into her recovery plan.

For readers in Malta, her story highlights the importance of embracing both traditional and alternative wellness practices. The island offers a growing number of organic health stores and restaurants specializing in whole-food meals, making it easier to incorporate healing foods into daily life. For example, dishes featuring legumes, like Malta’s iconic kusksu soup with broad beans, are packed with nutrients that support recovery and energy.

Debroux’s experience also underscores the importance of mindfulness and balance. Whether it’s through yoga classes overlooking the Mediterranean or meditation sessions in one of Malta’s serene gardens, integrating mental health practices into your routine can amplify physical healing.

Find What Works and Stick With It

Jenny Watson’s story is one of persistence and finding the right tools for change. At her heaviest, she weighed 420 pounds and struggled with fatigue and body pain. What finally worked for her was infrared sauna therapy combined with fitness sessions in heated environments. She credits the kindness of supportive trainers and her decision to cut processed foods from her diet as key factors in her success.

Malta’s warm climate offers natural opportunities for heat-based wellness, from outdoor yoga under the sun to seaside walks that combine exercise with vitamin D exposure. Additionally, the island’s restaurant scene is increasingly catering to those seeking clean, whole-food options. Many eateries now feature dishes free from processed ingredients, such as fresh fish grilled with olive oil and herbs or colorful salads bursting with seasonal vegetables.

Watson also highlights the importance of support systems. Her husband joined her in making lifestyle changes, a reminder that wellness can be a communal journey. In Malta, family-oriented dining traditions, such as sharing platters of healthy meals, encourage solidarity in health-conscious eating.

Small Moves, Big Results

Andrea Leigh Rogers, a fitness trainer who has worked with celebrities like Gisele Bündchen and Nicole Scherzinger, warns against falling for the latest wellness trends. Instead, she advocates for consistency through manageable routines. Her acronym FEEL—Fast, Enjoyable, Effective, Longevity—offers a practical framework for building sustainable habits.

For busy professionals or parents in Malta, this approach is particularly helpful. Start your day with mindful breathing, a quick stretch, and a nutrient-packed Maltese breakfast. A traditional meal like whole-grain bread with ġbejna (goat cheese) and fresh tomatoes offers both flavor and health benefits. Or, rethink daily responsibilities by simplifying routines and prioritizing physical activity, such as taking evening strolls through Mdina’s peaceful streets.

Rogers’ advice also resonates with Malta’s restaurant scene, where farm-to-table dining and seasonal menus are becoming the norm. Opt for dishes that align with your wellness goals, like grilled fish with quinoa or roasted vegetables with tahini dressing.

Reboot and Recharge

James Keppel’s story demonstrates the importance of stepping back to heal. After nearly losing his liver to cirrhosis, he made significant lifestyle changes but later faced emotional setbacks that required him to pause and recalibrate. Moving in with family, sleeping more, and limiting his screen time allowed him to rebuild his life at a sustainable pace.

In Malta, the concept of taking time to recharge aligns well with the island’s ethos. Locals and visitors alike can find solace in Malta’s natural beauty, from relaxing by the crystal-clear waters of Blue Lagoon to unwinding at a wellness retreat in Gozo. For those seeking nourishment during recovery, Malta’s culinary offerings—such as soups made with seasonal produce and herbal teas infused with chamomile or sage—can provide both comfort and health benefits.

Keppel’s experience reminds us that wellness isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating space for growth and healing. Whether you’re recovering from illness or simply rethinking your lifestyle, Malta offers countless opportunities to make incremental changes that lead to lasting wellness.

Your Own Wellness Journey in Malta

As these stories illustrate, the path to wellness is deeply personal and often begins with small, manageable steps. Whether it’s through food, fitness, or emotional care, Malta provides an ideal backdrop for cultivating healthier habits. From its nutrient-rich cuisine to its serene landscapes, the island offers endless inspiration for those seeking to improve their physical and mental health.

So why not start today? Sample the superfoods at a local farmer’s market, savor a wholesome meal at a health-focused restaurant in Sliema, or take a mindful walk along Malta’s stunning coastline. Wellness isn’t a destination; it’s a journey—and Malta is the perfect place to begin yours.