People: Natalia Swarz
Name: Natalia Swarz
Occupation / Business / Creative Outlet: Founder of Hôtel Weekend
Location: Madrid, Spain
First thing you did this morning? Lots of cuddles with my daughter Cecilia.
What does 'well-being' mean to you? Living an un-rushed life. Doing things that make you happy and being present in the moment.
Currently reading? Everything, Beautiful - by Ella Frances Sanders
Currently browsing (.com)? Not a website, but I’ve been reading Leti Sala’s poems on her IG or Twitter. I love her approach on motherhood.
A resource / piece of writing you'd like to share with us? I love this quote: Rachel Carson — 'One way to open your eyes is to ask yourself, What if I had never seen this before? What if I knew i would never see it again?'
An album/mix that calms your nervous system? This playlist.
An album/mix that hypes you up? Snow, by Angus & Julia Stone is my go-to for road trips and happy moments. Also, Nicola Cruz if I’m feeling like dancing.
Three items in your wallet / bag? I go everywhere with a botanical blend that relaxes me which I apply throughout the day, my phone and keys.
Most commonly used apps on your phone? Lately, Cosmos to gather inspiration. Squarespace to manage my business and as everyone else, Instagram. But I guess my camera is the most used feature on my phone, I have over 100.000 photos!
Products found in your shower/by your bath? I have this thing with brushes, I love them. You will always find one in my shower. A shampoo bar from Rowse. A body and face oil by Rowse. A hair oil by F.MILLER —I love oils too. You will also find some beautiful BAINA towels. I love wrapping myself in a big, soft bath sheet. For Ceci, she uses SoKind for her bath and Kenko for her daily massages — the scent is heavenly.
Three things that can always be found in your kitchen cupboard? Bread, Olive oil (from Le Marké) and some kind of salted chocolate, preferably a brownie.
Favourite kitchen utensil? I won’t call him an “utensil” but our kitchen wouldn’t be what it is without our favorite chef, my husband. He cooks the most delicious meals.
Favourite travel destination? Portugal. It always feels like home.
Favourite form of movement/exercise? I’m taking things slowly getting back to exercise after having my daughter. I usually practice Jivamukti yoga with my friend Fernanda de la Puente from Asana Groove. I just started doing Postpartum Pilates too since it really helps strengthen my back.
Nighttime rituals & practices? A hot shower at the end of the day is so important (may I say sacred) to me. I need it to relax and have a moment just by myself, to breathe, recharge.
One thing you'd like to incorporate into your day/week that you're currently yet to? I would love to FaceTime my grandmother more often.
A secret? I love taking a shower with the lights off. Nothing sexy, I just find it relaxing.
Someone you look up to? My sister.
Something you're proud of? How my stubbornness and dedication makes me achieve my wildest dreams. I feel most creatively fulfilled when…I travel.
I'm currently working on… Opening a small hotel. (Shhh)
This time last year, I wish I knew… That my baby was going to be fine (during a very stressful/ scary pregnancy).
I'm grateful for… My family being healthy and full of love.
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