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.
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 Méthode Cap Classique and 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.
R645 per person
Bookings essential via DinePlan: [Click here to book]
Have plans for Women’s Day? Here is how you can still make the most of a relaxing (any) day in Paarl
Begin with movement
Ease into the day with a Pilates session at Pilates for Life Studio, the Winelands’ first and only fully equipped classical Pilates studio. Whether you’re new to Pilates or experienced, the studio offers the original method developed by Joseph Pilates, updated for modern bodies and lifestyles. It’s a beautiful way to restore balance and ground yourself before the day unfolds.
Then linger a while
After class, enjoy coffee with a view or a light bite. For something more substantial, head to La Grapperia for flatbreads and platters.
Pamper yourself
At Beauty is Life Institute, treat yourself to a moment of luxury, whether it’s a rejuvenating facial, a lash tint, a mani-pedi or a tension-releasing massage.
Immerse in the natural surroundings
With panoramic views of Paarl Mountain, Table Mountain, and the Simonsberg range, Spice Route offers a unique connection to nature. Whether walking through the gardens or simply soaking up the scenery, allow yourself to be still.
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”.
Find a quiet corner, take in the beauty, and just be.