Page 22 - Masala Lite Issue 162 June 2024

Given the field’s focus on physical conditioning, how has it influenced your perception How do you typically spend your free
of body image? time?

For me, completing shows with my leanest physique can be challenging. Adjusting Family and close friends are my priority.
to a shredded appearance and experiencing the peak definition of my muscles brings During preparations, most of my energy
indescribable joy. However, gaining back some fat and retaining water becomes necessary and focus go to balancing my day with
to restore hormonal balance and overall health, though it does temporarily affect how bodybuilding and work. With the time I
I see myself in the mirror. have left, I try my best to show up for the
people that love and want the best for me.
Growing up, body image has always been a big issue in how I define myself as a woman.
Women are told to look and be seen a certain way by the surrounding noise, whose I enjoy occasional trips, but managing my
perception of body image differs. Unfortunately, the only way to be happy with how our meals can be challenging as I have strict
body looks is to shut out that noise. Women often grapple with the challenge of filtering out dietary restrictions. Despite this, I strive to
constant noise and overcoming pervasive fears, particularly in male-dominated societies maintain a sense of normalcy in my leisure
where attractiveness is narrowly defined by specific shapes and appearances favoured by activities, treating my free time as if I were
men. Women’s bodies are such a beautiful ode to our unique genetics and how we live life. not in competition preparation, except for
As women, we’re often caught comparing our personal journeys to what others appear the food limitations.
to have on social media. But this notion is almost like comparing the moon to the sun.
Could you offer advice to beginners in
Our bodies were never meant to be compared. As much as people think I’m far from this bodybuilding and share some motivating
struggle because of how I look, it is still in my thoughts daily. I often find myself staring factors for those embarking on their
at myself in the mirror, nit-picking every little curve and line I can improve. but I am fitness journey?

committed to continually striving to love and accept my body, aiming to reach a point Remove the outside noise and dig deep
where external opinions no longer sway my self-perception. The real question is, have into what you want for yourself. Whether
you consistently put in the effort to cherish your body as it deserves? you’re aspiring to compete, embark on a

While I can’t alter others’ views on body image, I hope to empower women to cultivate fitness journey, or adopt healthier habits,
such profound self-love that external influences hold no power over their bodies. Enjoy follow your passion and take the leap. By
the changes of your body and mind – they evolve when you give them energy and time doing so, you eliminate curiosity and gain
to carve them correctly, and as stress-free as possible. self-discovery along the way, regardless
of the outcome.
What are some insights or lessons about this profession that you discovered after
joining, which may not be apparent to outsiders? Having someone who can keep you
accountable can go a long way when
Competitive Bodybuilding is not a sport for everyone, just like every other competitive entering a fitness journey, whether it’s a
sport out there. It’s alright if people don’t get what you’re going through. I recommend professional, friend, or gym buddy. The
staying vigilant and conducting thorough research before trusting any information or advice expectation they have for your health and
blindly. Outside voices can be loud, so be mindful of who you can trust. Your worries and fitness can serve as motivation, driving
feelings are always valid, hold the people that you can vent to very close to you because you to meet and exceed those standards
you will need it throughout the process. Sleep and health is your top priority – muscles to avoid disappointment.
need as much recovery as the mind. Also, your body goes through a lot more than you
can see, make sure to balance your ambitions and health. The challenge for this sport is The key to continuous improvement lies
to keep pushing your limit without letting it break you. in consistently challenging yourself until

discomfort becomes familiar. Achieving
The real question is, have you consistently put in this milestone brings an immense sense
of pride, fuelling your determination to
the effort to cherish your body as it deserves? persevere.

MASAL A LITE ISSUE 162 - JUNE 2024