Model: Clara Wahlqvist
Photography: Alex Rosenkreuz
Makeup: Brandy Marlin
Agency: Firebird PR Agency
What first inspired you to pursue a healthy lifestyle, and how did your personal fitness journey begin?
I grew up surrounded by sports, which shaped my relationship with movement from a very young age. I played tennis and spent many years riding and owning horses, competing in show jumping, where being athletic, disciplined, and physically strong was essential. That environment taught me early on that the body is something you work with and take care of, not something you push carelessly. Later, when I entered the modeling industry, that foundation became even more important. I realized that feeling strong, balanced, and energized mattered far more than simply looking a certain way. Over time, fitness shifted from performance or aesthetics into a form of self respect and long term well being.
How would you define your philosophy of healthy living beyond just exercise?
My philosophy is very holistic. Healthy living is not just about how you train, but how you live your everyday life. It includes how you manage stress, how you rest, how you nourish yourself, and how you speak to yourself internally. I believe true health comes from balance rather than extremes. It’s about creating routines that support both physical and emotional stability, allowing space for ambition while also honoring recovery and mental peace.
What makes your approach to fitness unique compared to traditional workouts?
My approach is much more nervous system focused than traditional training. I prioritize Pilates based movement, controlled strength, posture, and breath over high intensity workouts. I’m very mindful of cortisol levels and how stress affects the female body. Instead of exhausting myself, I train to feel elongated, grounded, and strong. It’s about building a body that feels elegant, capable, and sustainable rather than constantly pushing limits.
From your experience, what are the biggest misconceptions people have about fitness or Pilates?
One common misconception is that Pilates is too gentle to be effective. In reality, it requires a lot of control, precision, and strength, especially when done correctly. Another misconception is that progress only comes from pushing harder or training more often. Many people underestimate how important recovery, proper form, and consistency are. Especially for women, less intense but smarter training often leads to better results.
Can you walk us through your weekly fitness routine and how you balance different types of movement?
My weekly routine is centered around Pilates, which I usually practice four to five times per week. I mix mat Pilates with light weights and resistance to build strength and tone while keeping movements fluid and controlled. Walking is also a big part of my routine, especially outdoors and with my dog, which supports both my mental and physical health. Occasionally I include gentle strength training, but Pilates is always the foundation. I adjust my routine depending on my energy levels and listen closely to what my body needs.
How do you stay motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle even on days when you don’t feel your best?
I don’t rely on motivation as much as routine and self awareness. On days when I feel low or tired, I remind myself that movement doesn’t have to be intense to be valuable. Even a slow walk or a short Pilates session is enough. I focus on how movement makes me feel afterward rather than forcing myself to perform. That mindset helps me stay consistent without pressure.
What role does nutrition play in your overall wellness routine? Do you follow any specific eating habits?
Nutrition is a key pillar of my well being. I focus on simple, nourishing meals with an emphasis on protein and whole foods, because they support energy, hormones, and recovery. I avoid strict rules and instead listen to my body. I believe food should be supportive and grounding, not a source of stress. Flexibility and mindfulness around eating have helped me maintain balance long term.
What are the top three daily habits that contribute most to your physical and mental well being?
Daily movement is essential for me, even if it’s gentle. I also value moments of stillness, especially in the morning when I get the chance to meditate or simply breathe and set intentions for the day. Spending time outdoors plays a huge role as well. These habits help regulate my nervous system and keep me feeling centered, clear, and emotionally balanced.
What advice would you give to someone who is just beginning their fitness journey and feels overwhelmed?
I would tell them to slow down and start small. You don’t need to change everything at once. Choose movement you enjoy and focus on consistency rather than intensity. Progress comes from building habits you can maintain, not from pushing yourself too hard in the beginning. Trust that small steps, repeated over time, lead to real transformation.
How do you integrate mental and emotional well being into your lifestyle and fitness practice?
I see mental and emotional health as inseparable from physical health. Pilates naturally encourages presence because of its focus on breath and control, which I find very grounding. I also try to meditate in the mornings when I get the chance, practice gratitude, and stay aware of my stress levels. Setting boundaries and allowing myself rest without guilt are also important parts of maintaining emotional balance.
What are your favorite recovery rituals after an intense workout or a stressful day?
Recovery is something I truly prioritize. Stretching, warm showers, and calm evenings help me unwind both physically and mentally. I love quiet nights with minimal stimulation, early sleep, and time to decompress. I see recovery as an essential part of progress rather than something optional.
Looking ahead, what personal or professional health goals are you most excited to pursue?
Looking forward, my goal is to continue building a lifestyle that supports longevity, balance, and inner calm. Professionally, I want to keep inspiring women to choose sustainable wellness over extremes. Personally, I aim to feel strong, grounded, and energized through every phase of life, while staying deeply connected to my body and intuition.