Slow life #2: Mascha Trietsch

Fast pace, racing against time and fulfillment through socio-professional success... What if it was time to slow down?

Nénés takes you into inspiring slow lives, to invite you to appreciate simple moments, to take the time to live fully and to put your happiness at the heart of your concerns.

For this second episode, we put the spotlight on sport: a real escape that can be experienced as close as possible to nature. Meeting with @maschatrietsch yoga teacher and surfer on the Basque coast.

(1)

Can you introduce yourself ?

My name is Mascha, I live in Bidart in the southwest of France. I'm originally from Germany and moved to France last year.

(2)

What do you do on a daily basis?

My life is organized around my two great passions: yoga and surfing.

I do a lot of yoga, I'm actually a yoga teacher. I feel very lucky to be able to turn my passion into my job. I also do retreats and training to improve myself more and more, and to teach in the best possible way.

Then, I surf a lot on a longboard and I do a little competition.

In general, I really enjoy spending time in the water and on my yoga mat. These are like my safe places!

(3)

Why did you choose to move to Bidart?

I have always dreamed of living by the ocean and more particularly in the southwest. I started surfing there when I was 12.

I lived in Berlin until last year before moving to Bidart. I really enjoy city life, but I also knew that one day I would like to be closer to nature and the ocean so that surfing could be part of my daily life!

(4)

What is the difference between your life in Bidart and that in Berlin?

The main difference is the presence of the ocean and how it influences my daily life.

In Bidart, I can surf or walk on the beach , and I am much more connected to nature.

In Berlin I spent a lot of time on public transport, the streets and cafes were always crowded, as were the restaurants.

Although I loved the variety of activities and the many yoga studios, it was difficult for me to slow down. I constantly felt like I was running everywhere and I was looking for more calm and contact with nature.

(5)

How did you start surfing?

I started surfing while on family vacation.

My father was really fascinated by this sport, he made us all try it and we all loved it.

I was lucky enough to spend every school vacation near the ocean, in France or Portugal to surf.

(6)

What about yoga?

I started yoga gradually. I remember as a teenager, I took several courses, but I ran out of time.

Then, yoga took a more important place in my life. At first I practiced a lot at home with YouTube, then I started going to the studio. A few years later, I moved to California to learn everything about yoga and become a teacher.

That was 8 years ago, and when I came back, I started giving lessons. And this is where I am today!

(7)

What is your lifestyle?

My lifestyle is entirely based on connection to nature and in particular to the ocean. External conditions such as wind play an important role.

But I am also very connected with the people around me.

I am grateful to be able to teach yoga classes, attend retreats, and meet so many people, all while deepening my connection with myself.

(8)

What is your typical day like?

No day is the same, they vary a lot.

But a perfect day for me starts with a yoga session, either at home or in a studio. Then I have a good coffee and a good breakfast. Then I spend time on my computer to manage my emails, then I surf in the afternoon with my friends. Finally, I end my day by giving yoga classes. Again ! (laughs)

(9)

What are your favorite places on the coast?

I love the Biarritz market. I like to go there after my morning classes, have a coffee, go shopping and buy my vegetables. The atmosphere there is really pleasant.

In Bidart, I am a fan of the La Licorne bakery, which offers the best breads.

I also love admiring the sunset from the Côte des Basques in Biarritz. There is an excellent restaurant, Cheri Bibi, which serves local cuisine with many vegetarian options. It is delicious !

All the beaches in the area are beautiful, with the mountains in the background.

(10)

Has your style changed since you lived in Bidart?

Yes, the way I dress has changed a little bit since I've lived here.

I wear a lot of yoga clothes and I favor comfortable clothes, especially after surfing. Like a t-shirt and jeans to stay warm. I also like to wear dresses with beautiful materials.

And I love wearing swimsuits, I feel very good in them and happy!

(11)

What do yoga and surfing bring you?

I think yoga and surfing teach me to fully live in the moment and be truly aware of my surroundings.

They help me stay centered and connected to myself , while remaining calm.

(12)

Are surfing and yoga compatible with a slow life?

Yoga and surfing are perfectly compatible with a slow lifestyle. They are ideal for fully living the present moment and taking your time!

Discover Mascha's slow life in video