New York doesn't exactly do slow. From the morning rush to late-night plans, there's always somewhere to be and something happening. For 17-year-old model Isla Rhodes, learning how to enjoy the city also meant learning when to step away from it.
 “In a city that never stops, I've learnt to make time for myself,” Isla tells ELEVATE. “There's always something happening, but I don't want to feel like I have to be doing something all the time.”
Isla was scouted at 14 while shopping in SoHo with her mum. What started with a few test shoots has since turned into modelling work for New York fashion and beauty brands. But away from the camera, Isla's life is much less about schedules and much more about finding her own pace.
“I think everyone needs time where they can just do nothing,” she says. “You don't always have to be productive.”
And when it comes to keeping active, Isla isn't interested in making exercise another thing to tick off her to-do list. Instead, she takes advantage of the city around her, walking through different neighbourhoods and seeing where the day takes her.
“I love walking around New York because you never know what you're going to find,” Isla explains. “I'll go out with somewhere in mind and end up somewhere completely different.”
Then there's the food. New York is practically built for eating on the go, and Isla's approach is refreshingly simple. Bagels, cafés and dinner with friends all make the list.
“I don't think being a model means you have to live off salads,” she laughs. “I love trying different food and going out with my friends. I think it's more about having a balance.”
It's a mindset that carries through to the rest of her life. Modelling means spending plenty of time thinking about clothes, photographs and appearance, so Isla makes a point of having a life outside of it too. Photography, music and exploring the city are some of her favourite ways to switch off.
“When I'm not working, I just like being myself,” she says. “I don't want everything I do to be about modelling.”
For Isla, wellness isn't about having the perfect routine or trying to do everything right. It's about enjoying the city, making time for the people she loves and knowing when it's time to slow down.
“There's always something to do in New York,” Isla says. “I think you just have to remember that you don't have to do everything.”
So, what's your way of switching off?
Tell us on Instagram @elevateanywhere_