Julia Sutton is the CEO and a member of the founding team of Exhale, a wellbeing destination with locations all across the U.S. She is an expert in the fitness, spa, and wellness industry with a flair for developing spas, fitness, and retail spaces across the country. Learn more about her wellness tips and picks here.
What does wellness mean to you?
Wellness means more than a green smoothie or an hour of meditation. Those things are helpful, but overall wellness is giving your body permission to tell you what it needs.
What are your favorite things to do to maintain your personal wellbeing?
Apart from my daily workout and ginger shot, my favorite wellness activity is going on long walks with my dog, Oscar, and my husband, Ted. There are no phones involved, just good conversation and nature.
Is there a specific fitness activity that you love and why?
You can’t beat a good bout of cardio, whether that’s a refreshing outside run or a jog on the treadmill while I watch my morning news.
What is your favorite healthy food, and do you have a favorite way of preparing it?
Anything that my daughter Samantha makes for me. She lives in Europe and has a magnificent way of preparing food with fresh, healthy ingredients and minimal extras.
What is your favorite healthy beverage (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), and do you have any insider tips for preparing it?
My favorite cocktail is The Paloma! It’s made with fresh grapefruit juice, tequila, and lime. It’s so fresh, and the grapefruit gives a great boost of Vitamin C.
What do you think is the most exciting wellness innovation you have recently discovered?
I have been using a meditation app for years, and it helps me to stay very balanced.
What is your idea of balanced healthy happiness?
Completely relying on yourself for happiness while surrounding yourself with great people who add to your happiness.
What do you think is the most overused word or words in wellness?
“Fat-burning” or “anti-aging.” Both messages place stigmas on things that are completely healthy and normal while creating empty promises.
Do you have a secret health or wellness tip you would like to share?
Every morning, I do a ginger and turmeric shot that I make with my juicer. It helps reduce inflammation and provides me with a clear mind.
What is your favorite place for a healthy vacation or escape?
I love our Exhale Miami locations. I can take an Exhale class every day, enjoy the sunshine, and find great places to eat.
What is your favorite self-care routine?
Gua sha and facial massage.
How do you celebrate small victories?
Telling my family about them.
Get to know other wellness industry insiders with Wellness Questionnaires with:
Kimberly Snyder
Elizabeth Trattner
Mia Kyricos
Jillian Wright