Deb Garman, spa director at Newport Harbor Island Resort (Newport, RI), has spent years managing spa operations at noteworthy spas, including those at Gurney’s Resorts, The Providence Biltmore, and The Hotel Viking. A Newport native, Garman attended the University of Denver before spending some time traveling the world. An animal lover, she has spent her life committed to saving theirs. In fact, rescuing animals is just one of the ways she maintains her own wellbeing. Here, she shares more about what brings her joy.
What does wellness mean to you?
Wellness to me is a complete connection between the mind and body. I’ve found that it takes a combination of both to truly feel your best.
What are your favorite things to do to maintain your personal wellbeing?
I enjoy working out, as well as spending time at a rescue farm with which I am involved.
Is there a specific fitness activity that you love and why?
One of my favorite fitness activities is exploring the Cliff Walk in Newport. It is a great walk along the coastline with outstanding views. I love to look at the Gilded Age mansions along the cliff and imagine what it was like to have lived in that era.
What is your greatest wellness achievement?
When I was a teenager, I was obese. I suffered through high school being overweight. When I discovered aerobics in the ‘90s, my entire lifestyle changed, and that was a great achievement that improved my wellbeing.
What is the best piece of wellness advice you have ever received and from whom?
A friend told me once that being skinny did not equate to being well.
What is your idea of balanced healthy happiness?
Life is all about balance. We all have struggles. We struggle with work, with family, with our own internal demons. Balanced happiness to me is when I have an equal amount of work and fun. However, you also can’t underestimate the power of doing nice things for people and animals. That is what balances me.
What is your favorite place for a healthy vacation or escape?
I am a huge fan of Bali. I found peace in Bali that I have never felt before.
What is your go-to for de-stressing?
A hard day of work cleaning stalls at the farm helps me de-stress.
What aspect of your wellbeing do you struggle with the most, or would most like to improve?
I tend to take on too many projects. I am terrible at delegating. I wish I could say no more. Unfortunately, I am not wired like that, but I consistently work toward improving that balance.
What wellness-related books or authors do you recommend, and why?
Many years ago, I was given a copy of The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz. Reading his book was life-altering. I often refer to it when I am feeling stuck.
How do you celebrate small victories?
I don’t necessarily believe in measuring victories. Large or small, a victory is a victory. I like to celebrate things by trying to stay in that moment and remembering how it feels.
What brings you joy?
To name just a few, my family, my work, and the animals I save bring me immense joy.
