Grow and Glow: Laura Wicki-Stordeur
It is the start of a new year, and we're ready to help you achieve your physical, mental, and emotional wellness goals. Inspired by you all this new year, we are excited to launch our #ChooseYou campaign. #ChooseYou is a movement that encourages you to prioritize yourself and take steps toward strengthening your physical well-being.
This January, Glow Within is focusing on the many benefits of going to the gym to improve mental health. We are thrilled to have Laura Wicki-Stordeur, a health and wellness enthusiast and amazing mum, leading this series. Currently working within the healthcare industry, She hopes to complete a Master’s degree in Public Health to further contribute to health education, nutrition and women's health. Laura has personally experienced the positive impact that regular exercise can have on mental well-being, and she is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with others. Join us as we explore how the gym can improve and support your wellness and get inspired to make exercise a regular part of your self-care routine.
When/how did you get into fitness?
From a young age, I participated in various sports including soccer, gymnastics, and rugby. I was fortunate to have a strong support system that valued physical activity and its many benefits. Like many who enter their teen years, I took a hiatus from organized sports as my social life (the good, the bad and the ugly!) became front and center. I lost my sense of self over the next few years as I stumbled through jobs, relationships, and school. After having my daughter in my early twenties and leaving a toxic relationship I ended up wanting more – looking to feel better, live healthier and be a positive role model. From there, I found joy, strength, and passion in fitness, including weightlifting, hiking, and yoga.
How has fitness impacted your life?
Fitness has been instrumental in transforming my body, mind and spirit. It has lifted me up in some of the darkest times and allowed me to see the light. I have moved through divorce, trauma, and fear by incorporating movement and mindfulness into my routine. One goal that I set for myself following a rather difficult year was to walk on stage and complete a fitness competition, this was totally out of my comfort zone! I trained and followed a nutrition protocol with a coach for 6 months, and competed in three categories of the Wellness division, placing second and third, twice. I am confident that the body achieves what the mind believes – and am proud to be a positive role model for my young daughter.
What are the positives that have come with prioritizing fitness in your life?
By incorporating fitness into my daily routine, I am able to better cope with stress, sleep better, and feel better! Exercise improves my overall energy levels, mood and health. It has enhanced my confidence, self-esteem, and body image by improving my physical, mental, and emotional health. Even incorporating 10 minutes of walking a day is a win! I call it my moving meditation as it allows me to clear my head and take time to reflect. After practicing exercising, I feel more connected to my body and look forward to setting fitness goals and undertaking new challenges in my life. My goal this year is to slow down, become more mindful and strengthen my yoga practice (quite different than years prior!).
What advice you'd give to a younger woman in starting their fitness journey?
Our day-to-day lives can get really busy but don’t forget to make time for yourself amidst the chaos. Find time to breathe, reflect and move your body. Challenge yourself to try something new and if you find that activity doesn’t resonate with you try something else! All progress takes place outside of our comfort zone.
Tips from Laura
Focus on health not weight! ‘Healthy’ is an outfit that looks different on everyone.
You don’t need to go to a gym to get a killer workout. FACT: I trained 100% from home for a fitness competition using two sets of dumbbells, some bands, a yoga mat and a cardio machine.
Break your activities into smaller chunks throughout the day (eg. 15 minutes in the morning, afternoon and evening) – with a young child, job, and responsibilities this is what you have to do sometimes to get in some ‘me time’.
Find a fitness friend or buddy to keep you motivated and accountable!
I love listening to podcasts, reading or catching up on my favourite show while exercising.
Utilize Youtube! I am strictly using online weightlifting and yoga videos in my current training regimen. Some of my favourites are Carolyn Girvan Fitness, Boho Beautiful Yoga, and Sydney Cummings.
Don’t forget to hydrate! I drink 1 L as soon as I get out of bed, and then ensure to refill my bottle at least 2 more times throughout the day. It is a lifesaver for keeping your energy and mood in check.
Feeling anxious? Throw on a pair of sunglasses and go outside for your walk! My tried and true trick for getting moving when you aren’t feeling it!
Lastly…start small, don’t be so hard on yourself, ensure to rest and enjoy the journey!
