WITH stress and burnout at an all-time high among South African women, the importance of pausing, reconnecting, and nurturing both body and mind has never been more important.
With stress and burnout at an all-time high among South African women, the importance of pausing, reconnecting, and nurturing both body and mind has never been more important. A recent Deloitte report reveals that over half of South African women are experiencing significantly increased stress levels, while AfroAnt has highlighted a concerning rise in burnout, showing that professionals are reaching fatigue far earlier in 2025 than in previous years.
BrainFacts informs us that time spent in nature, or simply enjoying the view, activates the “rest-and-digest” mode of the parasympathetic nervous system. “This helps calm the body, reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension, and decrease the production of stress hormones like cortisol”.
The consequences of prolonged stress are very real and specific:
- High blood pressure
- Stomach problems
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- Weakened immune system
- Disrupted sleep
- Trouble concentrating
If you’re in Cape Town or the nearby winelands on Saturday, 9 August 2025, take the opportunity to restore and celebrate at Spice Route Destination’s Women’s Day event, hosted at Jewell’s Restaurant in Paarl. Expect a carefully curated afternoon of wellbeing, inspiration, and indulgence.
At the centre of the celebration is a refined three-course lunch, showcasing the best of seasonal, local produce. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of Cap Classique or a refreshing non-alcoholic option before enjoying a menu that includes:
- Wild mushrooms with soft polenta and parmesan
- Whole roasted line fish with vibrant garden accompaniments and chive butter sauce
- Dark chocolate and hazelnut torte with espresso mousse
Adding a layer of inspiration to the occasion, renowned floral artist and Fleur le Cordeur founder Heike Hayward will join as guest speaker. Known for her striking installations and distinctive creative vision, Heike will share her journey as a creative entrepreneur and mother, offering reflections and practical ideas for women looking to reconnect with their own creativity.
Cost is R645 per person, bookings essential via DinePlan.
