CAROLINE KLAAR

Balans owner Marie Aspling embraces mindfulness professionally and personally.

“Being present in an over-stimulating world can be challenging,” says Marie Aspling, founder of Balans Wellness Studio and Balans Organic Spa.

This Africa-born, Sweden-raised, Boston-based wellness expert isn’t kidding. She has an advanced degree in biomedical science and a history in stem cell research. Today, she uses her knowledge and her dedication to mindfulness and self-care to help women live healthier. 

Mindfulness is sorely lacking in our hectic lives. We cram as much as possible into our days, leaving our nights sleepless as we mull over jam-packed tomorrows.

To stay mindful, Aspling wants you to celebrate “single-tasking.” No matter how simple the undertaking (think cooking, walking or talking to a friend), focus on it.

“It’s an illusion that, by doing several things at the same time, we get more done. In fact, the opposite is true,” she explains, noting multitasking leads to feeling run down and time spent repairing mistakes.

“Doing one thing at a time, with full attention, is being mindful,” she says, a concept so near to Aspling’s heart that she teaches techniques on finding peace during her overnight Balans’ Lifestyle Retreats in Rhode Island. Even her brand echoes the sentiment, with the word balans being Swedish for balance.

CAROLINE KLAAR

Balans owner Marie Aspling embraces mindfulness professionally and personally.

Instead of fearing silence, Aspling also wants you to embrace it. “Many of us don’t know what quiet feels like anymore. Staying busy is a way to escape reality and the present moment,” she explains. 

Try earplugs and an eye mask at night for sensory deprivation, or hitting “do not disturb” on your phone. If you choose when you’re available, each moment becomes more precious when you’re in it. “Enjoy life around you,” she adds. “And, while enjoying, take a breath.”