Could A Trip To Greece Be The Ultimate Wellness Prescription?

I’d seen a few posts on Instagram claiming that doctors were prescribing holidays to Greece, and at first, it sounded like pure wellness clickbait. Golden sunshine, bowls of Greek salad drizzled with olive oil, crumbled feta, fresh fish straight from the sea, endless stretches of blue water and long hours of glorious sunshine - all designed to make you book flights you probably can’t justify. But when you think about it, it does make sense. Prescribing lifestyle shifts like the Mediterranean diet, daily movement, sunlight, a slower pace and time in nature isn’t so far-fetched after all.

I know that being able to take a trip like this is a huge privilege (not everyone gets to step away from routine and soak up the kind of peace Greece offers so effortlessly) but I had a trip already booked and I’ve just come back. No doctor’s note in hand, but honestly, it felt like I’d been on a prescription plan for my mind, body and soul. Between sunrise walks (and runs), salty sea swims, yoga in our hotel’s shady garden, fresh buffet breakfasts, seafood straight off the grill, bread dipped in olive oil, Greek salads at sunset, quiet afternoons reading and early nights - something shifted. I slept more deeply than I had in months, my digestion (and bloating) improved, and my stress levels (as confirmed by WHOOP) dropped noticeably.

The hype? It’s real. Greece isn’t just a holiday... it’s a living, breathing blueprint for wellbeing. The beauty of it is that nothing feels forced. You eat fresh, move naturally, slow down and soak up the sun and the benefits unfold almost by accident.

I’m very aware of how fortunate I was to experience it firsthand, but what struck me most is how much of the Greek ethos we can bring home with us. From lingering over meals with loved ones to spending more time outdoors and slowing down just a little, these simple shifts can make everyday life feel more balanced, nourishing and joyful - even without the guaranteed sunshine.

Slow-paced, protein-packed and fibre-fuelled breakfasts

The hotel breakfast (we stayed at Olea All Suite in Zante) was nothing short of incredible. Every morning was a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. From omelettes made to order, to overnight oats, chia pudding, avocado chocolate mousse, sun-ripened figs that were so jammy they tasted like dessert, and just about every salad, vegetable and fruit you could imagine.

“Eating seasonally often means produce is fresher, more nutrient-dense, and harvested closer to peak ripeness, which can enhance flavour and vitamin content,” says Nichola Ludlam-Raine, Specialist Registered Dietitian. “Fresh vegetables provide fibre, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that support gut health, immunity and healthy ageing,” she adds. “Eating a variety of colourful vegetables maximises polyphenol intake, which helps lower oxidative stress. Local produce also tends to have lower environmental impact and may encourage greater dietary diversity, which is linked to better gut microbiome health too.”

It wasn’t just the food that made mornings feel good though - it was the pace. Eating slowly, taking in the view and giving myself time to actually enjoy breakfast felt like a mini reset in itself. A far cry from my usual rushed breakfasts on-the-go or ones at my desk back home. “Traditional Greek eating patterns are naturally slower and more mindful and that alone supports better digestion and gut health,” says Nichola. “Giving your body time to process food can reduce bloating and help you feel satisfied with smaller portions.” These morning moments really did set the tone for the whole day.

Movement as and when I fancied it

I’m not sure any hotel gym is ever that well equipped so I certainly didn’t have access to what I’m used to at my home gym. With no squat racks in sight, nothing heavier than a 10kg dumbbell and a few odd cardio machines, I had to get creative. This did actually end up being a blessing. I lifted lighter weights, switched up my usual routines and told myself I would only move when I fancied it. Turns out, I fancied it every morning after sleeping so well. The hotel also offered daily yoga sessions, which I booked myself into. Instead of following a rigid plan, I moved intuitively. The result? I felt strong and energised as opposed to achy and unmotivated.

Soaking up the sun (in a safe manner)

Sunlight is undeniably relaxing but it’s also a natural mood booster, helps regulate your circadian rhythm, supports vitamin D production and even reduces stress levels. There’s something about the light and warmth that works wonders for resetting both your body and mind too. It makes you feel alive and present in a way that’s hard to replicate indoors.

During my trip, I made sure to soak it up. Some mornings were spent reading my book on our sunny terrace, others listening to podcasts. Of course, I applied SPF regularly, reapplying throughout the day. My current go-to is Supergoop!’s Glowscreen Sunrise SPF 40 PA+++. It’s super hydrating, really lightweight and gives such a natural-looking glow. I’ve got quite sensitive skin and not one for wearing makeup on holiday and find this is the perfect solution. For my body, it’s always Coola’s Clear Sunscreen Spray SPF50. Fragrance-free and fast-absorting, I love that it’s also packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients to nourish and hydrate my skin.

I’m a big guzzler of water anyway but especially on holiday. A quick walk to the supermarket most days was usually on the cards to stock up on a few supersized bottles. I also drank an electrolyte each day and would alternate between the LMNT Recharge sachets (the watermelon flavour every time) or the SODII Everyday Hydration Salts.

Dinner was a fresh, relaxed and picturesque affair

I fully leaned into the Mediterranean diet while I was there, and honestly, it never felt like a “healthy” choice - just the way things are done. “The Mediterranean diet is widely recognised as one of the healthiest eating patterns because it’s linked to lower rates of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and cognitive decline,” Nichola explains. “The landmark PREDIMED trial showed that those at high cardiovascular risk who followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts had a 30% lower incidence of major cardiovascular events compared to a low-fat diet. It’s rich in fibre, antioxidants and healthy fats, which together support heart, gut and brain health,” she adds.

Our dinners were always fresh fish which as Nichola explains is super high in omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation, support brain health and lower cardiovascular risk. One evening we dined at Keri Lighthouse (a must if you’re visiting) and their freshly caught seabass, salmon and prawns were delicious.

Like breakfast, there was always plenty of salad, delicious veggies, olives, feta and everything drizzled with local olive oil of course. “Olive oil, particularly extra virgin, is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet,” she added. “It’s rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping reduce the risk of heart disease and protecting blood vessels. Fish, especially oily types like sardines, anchovies, and salmon, provide omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation, support brain health, and lower cardiovascular risk.”

Mealtimes were savoured, enjoyed and moments to connect

Beyond the incredible flavours and freshness of the food, it was the rhythm of mealtimes that really made them a highlight. We always ate at sunset with a view and were in no rush with nowhere else to be. It became a real moment to wind down, chat properly with my mum and just enjoy being present without distractions. We both committed to leaving our phones in the room which again was another small but powerful way to fully disconnect and be fully present.

It wasn’t just indulgence… there’s actual science to it. “Eating together is linked to better dietary quality and mental wellbeing,” says Nichola.. “Research not only shows that those who share regular meals together tend to eat more vegetables, fruit, and fibre and less fast food but the social connection lowers stress and contributes to overall wellbeing.”

Slowing down, savouring food and sharing the experience with others can have real benefits for digestion, stress levels and overall enjoyment of meals. For more on the benefits of mindful eating and the difference it can make to wellbeing, have a read of this - Mindful Eating Over Macros: How Letting Go Can Make You Healthier

Making full use of the hotel’s wellness facilities

Another of my favourite little indulgences was the sauna and spa. Something I don’t have time for usually, I used the sauna most days and felt so good for it. I fully embraced my time in there and made sure to practice some deep breathing. It’s the box method for me - inhale slowly to a count of four, hold your breath for four, exhale slowly for four, then hold again for four. I also laid with my legs up the wall - a tip I learnt from our very own  Healf Editor and Nutritionist - Eleanor Hoath. This helps boost lymphatic flow and circulation but also helps calm the nervous system and support digestion. Say no more. 

I felt noticeably better and also think this was another factor that helped boost my sleep score. I did also treat myself to a full-body massage. I appreciate this is a total luxury, but for me it’s worth every penny. Post-massage (and during), it is the most relaxed I ever feel and I can really feel the physical tension lift and my mind quieten down.

Appreciating the beauty of Greece

There’s something about Greece that just instantly slows you down. Our resort was quiet, adult-only and had the most amazing views. The aesthetic was super simple, stripped back and not busy in any way. There was little to no noise and it felt very retreat-like. The blue skies every day of course helped, as did the lovely views of the sea and mountains. As an early riser, I made the most of it. Every morning I’d catch the electric orange sunrises. Some mornings I’d head out for a walk, other times a run. With no pace and no Strava goals, I again just enjoyed the movement. The mix of picturesque views and calm vibes made it so easy to switch off.

The underrated luxury of an early night

It might sound controversial to some when you’re on holiday, but we leaned fully into the joy of an early bedtime and after all - we went away to recharge. Dinner was usually around 7:30 or 8 and by 10pm, we were tucked up in bed with our books, winding down properly. My screen time for the week was also down 37% which was another contributing factor to my improved sleep no doubt.

The combination of proper blackout curtains and air conditioning felt like the ultimate sleep setting. I always tell myself I’ll read before bed at home, but never quite commit. Here, it became second nature. My sleep was deeper, longer, and more restorative than it’s been in months. 

Bringing the Greek ways of living home

Since coming back, I’ve been trying to keep up with some of my holiday habits. Morning walks in the daylight have become my new ritual. Whilst they’re certainly not as warm, I have caught some good sunrises. I stocked up on olive oil while I was there and have been drizzling it over salads and dinners. I also took inspo from some of their salads so I have been adding watermelon and sprinkling lots of seeds. I’ve started visiting our local fishmonger and farm shop more often, bringing home plenty of fresh and seasonal goodness. When it comes to movement, I’ve kept the mantra of doing workouts I actually fancy, rather than pushing heavy weights on days I’m tired. I’ve also booked myself into a few yoga classes to keep that mindful, body-focused rhythm going. I’ve even been making a conscious effort to make dinner times slower and more relaxed instead of rushing through meals. This small, simple habit alone has made a big difference in how I feel.

Even back home, I feel the ripple effects: calmer digestion, deeper sleep, lower stress, and a renewed sense of gratitude. In short, it’s the kind of wellness reset we all could use — no passport required.

Top tips for being a little more like the Greeks… but in the UK

You don’t need a plane ticket to Greece to steal some of that Mediterranean magic. Here’s how you can bring the Greek lifestyle into your daily routine with some simple hacks from Nichola:

• “Cook with extra-virgin olive oil instead of butter or spreads,” says Nichola.
• Swap red and processed meat for fish, beans or lentils a few times a week. “Incorporating plant-based proteins and oily fish helps provide omega-3s and fibre, supporting cardiovascular health and gut wellbeing,” Nichola adds.
• Choose fruit or nuts instead of highly processed, sugary snacks and desserts. “Simple swaps like this increase antioxidants, fibre and healthy fats in your diet, which can improve metabolism and reduce oxidative stress.”
• Set aside time to enjoy your meals properly and with no distractions. Try doing this even just a few nights a week. “Eating slowly and mindfully helps digestion, supports gut health and allows your brain to register fullness, reducing overeating,” Nichola says.
• Move intuitively and consistently. “Daily movement doesn’t need to be structured. Walking, yoga, or light strength work can all boost energy, mood and long-term health,” she adds.
• Prioritise mindful self-care and rest. Even small rituals like a sauna, long bath, or gentle stretch can reset your body and mind.
• Soak up natural light whenever possible. Morning sun, daylight walks or sitting near a window can lift mood and support your circadian rhythm.
• Create a peaceful environment. “Taking time to pause, breathe, and appreciate your surroundings can lower stress and support mental wellbeing,” Nichola explains.

The essence of the Greek way of living isn’t complicated - eat fresh, keep moving, slow down and connect with the great outdoors. Even small, consistent shifts can make a noticeable difference.

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