As part of our Meet The Makers series, our portrait collection celebrating artisans, experts and creatives we admire, we meet Talana Bestall, the visionary founder of Alma Festival and co-founder of ANÍMA.
Created as an intimate gathering dedicated to longevity, wellbeing and meaningful connection, Alma brings together some of the world's leading voices in health, movement and human potential. This September, Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel in Sicily, provides the setting for ALMA, an intimate gathering centred on longevity, connection and wellbeing, with three days of expert-led talks, immersive experiences and restorative rituals.
This year's programme includes Irene Forte as part of a distinguished line-up of clinicians, practitioners and pioneers, reflecting a shared belief that lasting wellbeing is built through thoughtful ways of living.
We spoke with Talana about her journey into wellness, the inspiration behind Alma and ANÍMA, the enduring appeal of the Sicilian way of life, and the rituals that keep her feeling her best.
What does longevity mean to you?
Longevity is about thriving, not about living longer. It's having the energy, vitality and resilience to fully experience life while feeling connected to yourself."
How did your journey into wellness and longevity begin?
My journey began in luxury hospitality, where I saw first-hand the impact wellness could have on people's lives. When COVID arrived, it shifted all our perspectives on health and reinforced the value of wellbeing and preventative healthcare.
Around that time, I was invited to help launch RoseBar Longevity alongside Dr Mark Hyman and a world-class advisory board. It was an eye-opening experience that introduced me to leading experts and completely changed the way I thought about health and wellbeing.
That journey inspired me to create Alma and ANÍMA. Alma is the lived experience, while ANÍMA brings those principles into everyday life through expert-led, clinician-guided protocols that help people build healthier habits for life.
Tell us about the wellness festival happening in Sicily this year. Is there a connection to Italy, and Sicily in particular, that shapes your approach to living well?
I'm so excited to bring Alma to Sicily this September. We are hosting it at Rocco Forte's Verdura Resort, near Caltabellotta, which is an emerging blue zone.
I couldn't think of a better location. Sicily embodies so many of the principles of longevity: nutrient-dense Mediterranean food, a deep connection to nature, strong community ties and a slower rhythm of life.
Alma is about immersing yourself in that way of living and leaving with practical tools, expert insights and daily rituals that stay with you long after the experience ends.
Is there a personal ritual or practice that anchors your sense of wellbeing?
I find it's the small things I do consistently that make the biggest difference. Most mornings begin with red light therapy, followed by movement, even if it's only twenty minutes.
I'll always try to find time for breathwork or meditation. It doesn't have to be long. Even a few minutes can completely shift how I feel and how I show up for the rest of the day.
That's one of the reasons we created ANÍMA. We are launching the platform this September. It brings together expert-led practices and clinician-guided protocols that are simple to integrate into everyday life.
What is a place that inspires you, whether in Italy or elsewhere in the world?
Italy has always been one of my favourite places. There's something about la dolce vita, and Sicily has a particularly special energy.
Every time I'm there, I'm reminded that some of the most powerful ingredients for longevity aren't found in a supplement or a device. They're found in the way we live, eat, connect and spend our time.
I love the way Italians embrace life with such ease. They take time over meals, spend time outdoors and place real value on family and connection.
What advice would you give to someone just beginning their longevity journey?
Don't chase every new trend. Focus on the foundations and be consistent. Prioritise quality sleep, move your body every day, eat nourishing food, spend time in nature and learn how to regulate stress.
What is your favourite Irene Forte Skincare product?
The Prickly Pear Face Cream. It's one of those products I reach for every single day. It's deeply hydrating.
Do you personally have memories of the Irene Forte Spa at Verdura Resort? What impact did the experience have on your sense of wellbeing?
The Irene Forte Spa at Verdura is exceptional. I had a wonderful facial using Irene Forte Skincare products, and my skin was glowing afterwards.
I also love the thalassotherapy pools. There's something incredibly calming about moving through the different seawater pools while looking out towards Caltabellotta, surrounded by nature and those beautiful, expansive views. It's a place where I naturally slow down and switch off.
Head here to book your spot at Alma Festival.
