Insiders’ Vibrant Living: Being Well In San Miguel!

By Carla Maria Pérez

What is wellness, and why should we care? Wellness is a lifelong journey of enhancing your emotional, spiritual, intellectual, physical, environmental, financial, occupational, and social well-being.

The Global Wellness Institute describes wellness as “the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.” As to well-being, the World Health Organization defines it as "a positive state experienced by individuals and societies,” in other words, how happy and satisfied are we?

So, how can we improve our wellness and well-being?

In a vibrant community like San Miguel de Allende, wellness goes beyond good health—it’s a holistic approach to thriving in all areas of life. The Eight Dimensions of Wellness offer a framework to assess and enhance overall well-being. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer drawn to the town’s charm, these dimensions can guide you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. When one area of life suffers, others often follow. Poor physical health can lead to low mood or depression, while feeling strong and energized lifts our spirits and strengthens social ties. Just notice how your mood shifts in a cluttered space versus a clean, beautiful one. Our environment, emotions, and actions are deeply connected. Let’s explore each dimension.

Emotional Wellness. Emotional wellness involves recognizing, expressing, and managing feelings in a constructive way. In San Miguel, opportunities abound for nurturing emotional health—from connecting with local support groups to joining art therapy workshops or mindfulness circles. Practices like journaling in the Jardín or attending a sunset yoga class at one of the many wellness studios can help bring balance to your emotional world.

Spiritual Wellness. San Miguel is a city steeped in spiritual richness. Whether you find meaning through organized religion, meditation, nature, or personal reflection, this town offers spaces to deepen your spiritual connection. Attend a candlelit service in one of the historic churches, hike into the nearby mountains for quiet contemplation, or join or start a spiritual book group. Spiritual wellness is about finding purpose and harmony, both within and beyond yourself.

Intellectual Wellness. Keeping the mind sharp and engaged is vital at any age. San Miguel’s vibrant expat and local communities make this easy with countless lectures, book clubs, language classes, and cultural events. The Biblioteca Pública is a hub for lifelong learning and cultural exchange. Engaging intellectually boosts creativity, critical thinking, and satisfaction in daily life.

Physical Wellness. This dimension includes exercise, nutrition, sleep, and routine healthcare. San Miguel supports active living with walking trails, gyms, dance classes, and community sports. The city’s many farmers’ markets offer fresh, organic produce that fuels healthy eating habits. Staying physically well also means listening to your body and getting regular check-ups from trusted local medical providers.

Environmental Wellness. Being in tune with your surroundings can have a profound effect on wellness. San Miguel’s natural beauty—cobblestone streets, open-air mercados, and colorful gardens—encourages a connection to place. You can enhance environmental wellness by gardening, supporting eco-conscious businesses, reducing waste, or participating in local clean-up efforts. A clean, safe, and sustainable environment benefits everyone.

Financial Wellness. Financial peace of mind is key to overall wellness. While San Miguel often offers a more affordable lifestyle than many North American cities, it’s still vital to budget wisely, plan for emergencies, and seek trusted advice. Consider options like co-living, co-housing, or having a roommate, not only do they stretch your budget, but they also build social connections. Reducing financial stress opens the door to fully enjoy life here.

Occupational Wellness. Finding purpose through work or service—whether paid or voluntary—is central to feeling fulfilled. In San Miguel, many retirees reinvent themselves, launching small businesses, consulting, or diving into creative work. Others find satisfaction volunteering for local NGOs or mentoring youth. Even without traditional employment, occupational wellness thrives when your daily activities give you a sense of accomplishment and meaning.

Social Wellness. Strong relationships are at the heart of a healthy life. San Miguel offers endless ways to build meaningful connections—through art, music, community groups, clubs, or casual conversation at a café. Expats and locals alike find camaraderie in this inclusive, international town. Investing time in friendships and community leads to joy, belonging, and resilience.

San Miguel de Allende offers a rich setting to nurture every dimension of wellness. Whether you dive into one area or make small shifts in many, a more connected, balanced life is beautifully within reach here—all you have to do is take the first step.

Carla María Pérez, ISSA-certified trainer dedicated to helping men and women 55+ thrive with personalized fitness and nutrition plans, 415 566 0004 carlaperez.issacertifiedtrainer.com