Rooted in a culture of "work to live"
precisely at noon, everyone pivots
towards what imbues their lives with meaning.
Mid Life Joie de Vivre - The Art of a 2 hour Lunch
In recent days, I've found myself stepping out of my cramped apartment after the noon bells, expecting the usual lunchtime frenzy. Instead, what awaits me are shuttered windows and desolate laneways. My errands are, once again, pushed to the next day.
I’ve come to Provence to immerse myself in the study of "Joie de Vivre," a term synonymous with the French way of life. Yet, its embodiment eludes me.
So today, aware that the bank closes at 11:30 for lunch, I’ve ventured out early and happened upon the unfolding of a Joie de Vivre ritual.
I watch as just minutes before noon, the once-vibrant streets suddenly begin to empty. Shutters click shut, and stores secure their entrances. Schools spill their students into the streets, their backpacks rhythmically bouncing as they make their way home. Then, a stillness settles over the town—no French soul in sight, until I step into a bustling bistro that has just opened its doors.
Et alors, joie de vivre is alive and well here at the two hour lunch.
What captivates me is the pronounced boundary the French draw around these sacred two hours. Rooted in a culture of "work to live" rather than "live to work," precisely at noon, everyone pivots towards what imbues their lives with meaning. They gather with family and friends, savour the plat du jour, and immerse themselves in the moment.
At first unfamiliar with the custom and set in my North American ways, I pushed against the boundaries of this tradition. Attempts to schedule meetings over lunch risk offence met with a brisk "ce n'est pas possible, madame." The expectation for lunch extends to a full two hours and a table d'hôte. Conscious of dining alone, I've attempted to expedite the experience, achieving the quickest time of an hour and 15 minutes, much to the evident discomfort of the serving staff who cannot fathom why anyone would need to be in such a rush.
Initially, grappling with the prospect of spending extended time with only my thoughts, a book, and delectable cuisine, I discovered that it provides an opportunity to breathe, relish the moment, engage in conversations with neighbouring diners, and ponder life's profound questions. What is happiness? Why do cats purr?
My afternoons adopt a different cadence. If a frenetic, task-oriented pace marks mornings, afternoons become thoughtful and measured. The bullet-point staccato of the morning resets into a smooth rhythm post "la pause."
This lunchtime protocol serves as a poignant life lesson. "Joie de Vivre" is not just a concept; it is a daily practice grounded in respecting the boundaries we set around our cherished values.
The most sought-after request from coaching clients—achieving life balance—is a daily tradition here. Balance, I discover, needs boundaries. Joie de Vivre thrives through the conscientious honouring of what is encircled by these boundaries.
Comfortably seated alone at the table, savouring a leisurely lunch, I permit myself to breathe. Contemplating the happiness I wish to reconnect with, most often sacrificed in the frenzied norm of my days, it is time to draw a boundary around my wellness and my creative time to claim my Joie de Vivre. To ensure it accompanies me home, I recognize that I will need to nurture it. I’m learning that Joie de vivre is not an outcome but rather a deeply held and respected intention.
Today, I’m allocating the full two hours for lunch.
Avec une Joie de Vivre.