She Talks: The Wellness Diaries with Vanessa Axente

In our new interview series, we give a voice to inspiring women—both within and beyond Essa—to share their honest, unfiltered perspectives on wellness and self-care. They’ll talk about what they are currently obsessed with, where they’re still looking to grow, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Think of it as a conversation with a seasoned friend or sister whose experiences are always fascinating to hear and whose recommendations you can’t wait to try. For our very first Women’s Day episode, we asked Vanessa Axente, the visionary behind Essa World, who is now navigating her physical and emotional well-being through the new chapter of motherhood.

 

✨ What’s your latest wellness obsession—the one you can’t stop raving about to your besties?

Honestly, with my little girl, Giselle, I haven't had much time for new discoveries lately. The only wellness routine I manage at home is using the Red Light Face Mask and doing facial massage. However, I’m really eager to try Face Gym when I finally get the chance.

 

✨ Do you have a morning or evening ritual that feels like a little gift to yourself? Something that grounds you for the day or helps you truly unwind?

I make an effort to start my day with five minutes of stretching, or, if time permits while taking care of my baby, a 20-minute yoga session. It really helps me feel energized and centered, both physically and mentally, as I begin the day.

 

✨  What kind of movement makes you feel most at home in your body? Is there an activity that brings you pure joy?

My workout routine varies depending on my mood and energy levels. An energizing yoga session or reformer pilates always feels liberating, but sometimes a run outdoors is exactly what I need.

 

✨  How do you protect your energy in a world that can feel overwhelming? Any go-to strategies that help you manage stress and avoid burnout?

This is very challenging, and no matter how hard one tries to avoid it, I don’t think it’s possible to fully shield ourselves from it. The most important thing for me is to surround myself with people who are positive, uplifting, and inspiring. I make an effort to remind myself regularly of how fortunate I am. A smile always helps lift my spirits—and others around me as well. 

 

✨ If you could send a piece of self-care wisdom back to your younger self, what would it be?

Don’t be too hard on myself, and enjoy the present more. Try not to stress over things that haven’t happened yet and that are beyond my control.

 

✨  Imagine you have a self-care “toolbox”—what’s inside? What are the things that always bring you back to balance?

Yoga, walking outdoors, listening to music, mindfulness, hydration, massages, reading.

 

✨  Keeping it real: what’s one aspect of health, self-care or wellness that you’re still working or would love to get better at?

I’ve made significant progress in terms of self-awareness, but there’s still a lot to work on. When it comes to wellness, I’d love to find more time for myself to explore new things.

 

✨  And finally—what’s your favorite Essa World product, and how do you weave it into your daily routine?

Our Vegan Protein in vanilla flavour and Collagen. They have long been a part of my routine, but since Giselle was born, I’ve become even more focused on making sure I get enough of both. In the mornings, I often prepare a protein smoothie because it’s quick and nourishing. Sometimes, I add collagen, so I get two benefits at once. Other times, I satisfy my afternoon sweet cravings with a refreshing collagen drink: I mix a scoop of collagen with a little water, top it up with mineral water, add mint leaves, a bit of fresh grapefruit, and finish with a few ice cubes.