MELISSA
Your favourite workout?
Is stretching considered a workout? I like a good stretch and I’m the kind of dancer that needs a solid 15-min to stretch my body out before my body feels like itself.
Any favourite workout song(s)?
House music always hypes me up and anything by Janet Jackson will never fail to put me in a good mood. But if you need an empowering one, Maniac by Michael Sembello will make you feel like you are the female lead in Flashdance.
What is Sound Mind Sound Body to you?
Constantly talking and checking in with myself. I talk to myself a lot especially when I’m doing something challenging like running & planks. It’s me constantly reminding myself that I can do it if I want to and that I’m stronger than I think. Also surrounding myself with like-minded people who genuinely supports one another. Finding and having a tribe is important for our mental health. And lastly, the simple act of taking time to BREATHE.
A word of encouragement/advice for the women's community out there
It’s never too late to start or start again. You’re never too far gone to find yourself again. Whether it’s about fitness or pursuing a dream, it all comes down to taking care of yourself. I don’t mean that selfishly. Self-love is self-care and you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself means not only a better life for you but a better you to help make the world a better place. When you tap into who you truly are at your core you’ll attract like-minded people. When you build your tribe, you’ll see opportunities come your way and you’ll be given more chances to do more good if you choose to and I hope you do. Just remember it’s never going to benefit you to compare your life, your journey, your timeline, to anyone else’s. Just take good care of you and let the rest fall into place.
Our SEA Network
Sonya Danita
Malaysia
“This too shall pass.”
This is something I live by on a daily basis because I always believe that anything we are feeling or going through is just temporary, and it will pass in it's due time. After all, the only thing that is constant in life is change.
Bea Benedicto
Philippines
"Every stride is an opportunity to clear your mind and strengthen your body."