What first got you into running, and how long have you been doing it?
I started running in 2022, about six months after my son Emil was born. At the time, I was struggling with postnatal depression and had started therapy. My therapist encouraged me to move my body regularly. Since gyms weren’t an option and we were still in the middle of COVID, I started walking, then slowly running. My husband—who’s been a runner his whole life—really supported and encouraged me too. What started as a gentle push toward feeling better has turned into something I genuinely enjoy.
How does running make you feel, both physically and mentally?
Running played a big part in helping me rebalance mentally and hormonally. It’s not a magical cure, but it was a powerful part of my recovery. Running releases endorphins, increases serotonin, helps regulate dopamine, and balances cortisol—and understanding that made a big difference for me.
Physically, I feel stronger and healthier than ever before. After over two years of consistent running, my body feels like mine again.
As a mother of two, how do you find time for running in your daily routine?
I make it a priority. When I work from home and my schedule allows, I go for a quick 5K during lunch break—usually under 30 minutes. Sometimes I run home from the office. On weekends, my husband and I take turns going out for a run while the other stays with the kids. Now that they’re getting bigger, I even go running while one of them rides their bike alongside me.
And if you’ve ever seen me show up to an internal Teams meeting with wet hair or a towel on my head… now you know why! 😄
Has running changed the way you approach challenges in other areas of your life?
Absolutely. Running has shown me that my body can do so much more than my mind sometimes wants me to believe. That lesson has really shifted the way I face challenges—whether it’s in parenting, work, or personal goals.
There are moments during a tough run when everything in me wants to stop, but I’ve learned to push through and keep going. That same mindset now helps me stay grounded and resilient when life gets overwhelming. I remind myself that discomfort doesn’t last forever—and that I’m stronger than I think.
Do you think running has had a noticeable impact on your health or energy levels?
Yes, in a big way. My energy levels are more stable, I sleep better, and I feel more present and balanced throughout the day. I’ve also made changes beyond just running—like starting strength training and improving my diet—and as a result, I’ve lost 12 kg of post-baby weight and feel fitter than ever before.
What do you enjoy most about running — the solitude, the physical activity, or something else?
I love that running keeps me healthy, but it’s so much more than that. It gives me a sense of freedom and emotional balance that I didn’t know I needed. It’s my way to find peace and quiet in the middle of a very loud household.
Sometimes I run alone, just to clear my head. Other times I run with my husband or friends, and that creates a kind of connection I hadn’t experienced before—sharing effort, energy, and encouragement in such a simple but powerful way.
I’ve also found the running community—both at events and just out in the city—to be incredibly welcoming. Everyone celebrates each other’s wins, no matter the pace or distance.
And something I didn’t expect? I’ve discovered I’m more competitive than I thought—especially with myself. I love chasing progress and setting new personal records. That feeling of growth keeps me coming back for more.
Have your kids ever shown interest in running with you or participating in races?
Yes, both Matilda and Emil enjoy cycling alongside me or my husband during runs, especially when the weather is nice.
But my favorite moment this year was when Matilda, my oldest, turned five and participated in the local Bambino Run. She was nervous and unsure at first, but when she saw the other kids and the excitement at the starting line, she decided to join in. She ran the entire race with a big smile and crossed the finish line so proud. It wasn’t about speed or competition—it was about her overcoming her nerves and having fun. I was the proudest mom!