Well-being has been shifting in recent years; we witnessed the rise of self-care and many turned their backs on traditionally strict regimens to maintain a healthy everyday balance. Naturally, its evolution dissolved its definition into an individually tailored concept and we discover that while one group may still feel their best getting on the yoga mat, not everyone connects with their inner-self while doing Downward-facing Dog. For some, it may be the mere act of getting dressed in their most breathable leggings, body-hugging tank and soft blend sweater to, simply, lounge around their living room (a true luxury!).

The question that’s haunted us for so long (‘Does it feel right for you?’) is now a daily mantra to keep you doing you — as ordinary events can be the most rewarding. Be it perfectly folded laundry, a movie marathon of films only you and your closest friends can admit to loving, or channelling your inner-goddess doing Sun Salutation at 8 AM to unleashing your rockstar fantasy on the karaoke stage by 9 PM. Did none of those activities resonate with you? Well, case in point, because well-being is different for everyone.

Our guests — model and yoga instructor Anetta, and makeup artist and athlete Carlotta — share their journey, tips and reveal their favourite styles that keep them feeling “sexy” and “gracious” while striving for everyday balance.

Anetta Hartono:

Model & yoga instructor

What does being in balance mean to you?

For me, being in balance means alignment and feeling peaceful within myself.

When and why did you first connect with yoga, and what has yoga taught you about yourself?

I started practising yoga when I was feeling sick. On top of that, I was unhappy in my relationship, and my studies didn’t fulfil me. First, I started because of the physical aspect and I loved it because it challenged me. But after a while, I realised that it also has an impact on my mental and emotional health. Yoga taught me that I’m complete and worthy on my own.

What, other than sports, brings you stability?

Nature is important to me as it calms me down. I try to go for a one-hour walk every day. As much as I love to be the centre of attention at photoshoots, I need time by myself. I’m a sensitive person.

Garments and style can make us feel empowered — does what you wear impact your practice or motivation?

It needs to be comfortable and feel like a second skin, because then I can move freely. I like garments that make me feel gracious and what I wear influences my yoga practice. When you’re sometimes too lazy to get on the mat, a beautiful set to wear can be super motivating.

How has your definition of well-being changed over the years?

Understanding that I have power over my well-being and that not only is my physical body important but my thoughts and emotions.

What boundaries have you set for yourself and others?

I say no to people that aren’t good for me. It’s hard because it could be your parents or friends that you really care for that are pulling you down. But in that case, you have to love them from a distance.

What’s the first thing you do when you come home after a stressful day?

I lay down, take a deep breath and do nothing. Afterwards, I always try to go outside. It doesn’t matter how tired I am.

Of course, there isn’t always time for a long yoga session, especially when you’re on the go. What yoga position or stretching routine is your favourite for in between?

If I find a table or I have my luggage, I love to do a forward bend while keeping the back straight. I also love the Garland Pose. I actually did it at the bus stop this morning while I was waiting.

Carlotta Boattini:

Makeup artist & weightlifting athlete

When did you first realise that you have to start taking care of your well-being?

When I was young, I faced different eating disorders, so I started going to therapy. It was a tough journey for me, but I got to a point where there was no turning back, and I decided to change my life. That’s also when I started doing sports professionally. Before that, I only did sports to lose weight, but since weightlifting, my view on sports has changed.

What made you connect with weightlifting, and what has it taught you about yourself?

When lifting your maximum weight, you have a few seconds of adrenaline that feels like you’re out of this world. I really like that feeling. In fact, it’s what I’ve been looking for in my earlier unhealthy activities. Weightlifting has taught me not to feel guilty when I’m losing. It’s okay if you fail. Of course, sometimes I get angry with myself because I want to do my best, but at the end of the day, improvement is a curve, not a line.

Any tips on how to maintain the balance?

Get some rest, do nothing, go to bed. Whenever I’m super stressed, I leave everything as it is and watch a movie or scroll through Instagram. Or I go for a walk and say hi to the sheep since I live in the countryside.

Other than sports, what brings you joy?

Whenever I have free time, and I don’t feel like opening my makeup kit, I like to sketch comics because that helps me to relax. I really think that’s the most joyful thing I do because I only do it for myself.

Accepting yourself is a journey and a part of well-being. What did it take to get to the point you’re currently at?

Don’t be selfish or too proud to ask for help, and help others. You’re not alone in this world, and it’s a group effort. Also, becoming a makeup artist helped me with my inner self. I don’t compare myself to other women anymore. Instead, I help them to feel more beautiful, and when they feel beautiful, I’m happy, too.

Do you have a favourite song or playlist to switch off from your surroundings?

I love jazz, classical music from the ’60s and classic Italian songs. They make me feel safe. There’s this misconception that all weightlifters listen to metal, but I put on some jazz and lift 200 kilos.

And which activewear styles make you feel good when working out?

I like to be as naked as I can. I like to feel sexy. I always wear hot pants and a bra to the gym, even if I have cellulite. I don’t care about it, and I want to show others there isn’t any problem with being yourself.