Frida Hallqvist is a best-selling author of three books, hailing from Denmark, who currently runs an online personal training platform. From her background in professional ballet to being a mother to two wonderful children, we knew that Frida shared the same ethos as us here at Puori. We sat down with her and asked her some questions to get a better insight into her busy life.
What do you do to stay healthy? And what does being healthy mean to you?I love the wholeness of what health can be. Health for me is when training, healthy eating, sleep, presence in the moment and reduced stress meet and become something bigger than the sum of their parts. For me, health is the most important cornerstone of a well-functioning life, focusing on both the physical and the mental form. Because when you feel healthy you can continue to find the drive to live a healthy life.
How do you keep yourself in shape?
I love to train, and I train with plenty of variety. My body feels best when I combine everything from yoga, barre or dance with running and strength training. I listen to my body and that determines what my needs are at that moment. I take care during stressful periods and prioritize mindfulness during stressful and busy periods. I have a background as a ballet dancer and so I have always trained a lot in one form or another. Training for me is a lifestyle and always something I look forward to. I vary the pace and intensity, but never stop and always exercise several times each week.
How do you fit training into a busy day?
I will always prioritize a quick walk or workout before throwing myself onto the couch in the evening. Otherwise, I get up early and get the training done before the kids wake up. I do several quick workouts on the living room floor at home, so I save time back and forth from the gym. I mostly use my own fitness app “BODYbyFRIDA” and work out at home. The app has over 100 different training programs to create variety and get you motivated, and thus leads to more successful results. It's like having a personal trainer at home, even if it is having myself as a trainer! Additionally, each week I teach Pulsing Barre and yoga classes, so there is plenty of training for me during the week.
What do you think is the biggest challenge in terms of achieving a healthy lifestyle?
When life challenges us with more work than normal, sick children or bad weather it’s always hard to keep the motivation and actually just get it done. Keep in mind that training should not be something you have to force yourself to do. Even when the time is short, you should always try to find the time, because you want to. This is why I am a big fan of fast workouts and easy cooking solutions in the kitchen when what you planned doesn’t go quite right. I don't give up - you just have to find another solution so that being healthy can be your focus even when life doesn’t go your way.
What do supplements mean to you in your daily life?
Supplements ensure that my body is constantly optimized from the inside out. It makes my body stronger and better able to handle the workouts that I do as well as my busy everyday life. My body is more resilient when it comes to illness since I started taking Puori supplements several years ago. I have not been sick as much as I used to be, or been hit as badly if I have a virus. It's crazy to see and feel the difference. I can also feel a big difference in my energy levels. The supplements mean that I have more to give each day.
What do 'clean' products mean to you?
I often get check in detail what is contained in everything I eat. Clean products are a must for me as I can feel exactly what food ingredients do to my body, my skin, my digestion, and my mood. Of course, I think about how it affects my body for future illnesses but also how it affects the here and now. A clean product positively affects my body in every aspect and helps me achieve my goals as opposed to constantly giving your body something that is working against you.
Are 'pure' products important to you when it comes to supplements? If so, why?
Yes, very much so. As I said, I look into what all products contain, from everything from food, vitamins, creams to shampoo. It affects me tremendously if I get too many additives or chemicals. I have had a problem with both hormonal balance and skin problems in the past, and these have all gone away by finding the right products for me.
How did you first encounter Puori?
It was over 6 years ago! I first found the fish oil, that was the first Puori product I started with. At that time, it was the only product that Puori made. It has been incredibly fun to be on the journey alongside the company since then.
Which are your favorite products from Puori? And why?
Firstly, SB3. I know it is super good for my body, my gut, and my digestion. And it also tastes really good. It’s my "afternoon treat" every day. It almost like a sweet caramel if you have it straight from the stick, without any water.
Puori C3 effervescent vitamin C tablet also ranks very high on my list. I have a glass of this several times a week, if not every day. It’s a great combination of something which I can feel the benefits of, as well as great ingredients and a wonderful taste.
How do you create balance in your life?
A little of everything is okay. It’s okay to be a little unhealthy sometimes. Yes, I love health, exercise, and all the clean and healthy ingredients and products I use every day. But I also love champagne, being up late and eating a burger the morning after. Remember that that is ok too. When you do that, make sure you enjoy it, do not feel guilty – you can enjoy these foods with a clean conscience because that is what gives you balance. That way, I choose to have unhealthy food very infrequently, because I had the chance to enjoy them when I do, without feeling guilty.
What do most people not know about you?
That I've bungee jumped twice. And that I'm terrified of sharks and deep water. Oh and that I love eating licorice.
If you had to describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?
Positive, loving, determined
Which book would you recommend to everyone to read?
The best book I've read lately is "Crushed" by Anne Mette Kirk. An incredibly exciting novel and Anne Mette keeps you enthralled from side to side. Her language is vibrant and sincere, and you are engrossed in the story.
