Meet Our Muse: Hilary Rhoda
Meet our muse Hilary Rhoda @hilaryrhoda In celebration of Mother's Day, we sat down with mama, model and fitness enthusiast Hilary Rhoda. Read more about Hilary + learn why we adore her!
How has being a mother shifted your perspective about living a more balanced life?
I have definitely changed my lifestyle to have enough energy to be the most present mother I can be. Having a baby during the pandemic was kind of a blessing because the whole world was forced to slow down at the same time so it wasn't as much of a shock. Motherhood has made me realize I need to take good care of myself not just physically, but emotionally, in order to be the best mom I can be.
What is your favorite part about being a mama?
Everything is an adventure with my son. I absolutely love it and he makes the simple things in life so fun and exciting. A task as mundane as grocery shopping has become an absolute thrill! We have the best time together.
What is the most important lesson you want to instill in your son Nash?
Respect. For others and for himself.
What are your must-have items for surviving travel with a kid? Any secrets you’re willing to share?
I did a cross country flight, just my son and I, a few months ago and read all these blogs about how to survive a flight with a toddler to try to prepare myself. I was so nervous. I read some crazy advice like wrapping a bunch of individual toys and having them "unwrap" the toys one by one. I ended up just packing some essentials like some snacks and books (and OBVIOUSLY an iPad) and he was totally fine! Being on an airplane was exciting enough for him. He was having the time of his life taking in this new environment and all the people. But #1 tip? I think having a positive attitude really makes a difference! If you're having a good time, I think that energy will be felt by your kid. That trip really bonded us, and I also gained a lot of confidence as a mother.
Do you have a mantra you live by? Any new mantras of the moment?
Let Go! Of pain, of people who have wronged me, of things I cannot control. Motherhood has really taught me about the power of letting go!
How does movement influence your daily life?
Getting in daily movement is a non-negotiable. It's such a mood shifter for me. Luckily my husband is the same way, and we both know how important it is for each other to be able to get in our workouts every day.
What is your favorite way to decompress?
Lay on the couch and watch Real Housewives! haha
Do you have a morning routine? If so, share with us what works best for you!
I wake up and take the dogs out right away, then I go get my son out of his crib. I make breakfast for us and we eat together at the table. I make an English Breakfast tea with steamed vanilla almond milk for myself, and have a big bowl of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Then we play until it's time to go to the gym! But wherever I am, whether it's at home or if I'm traveling for work, I always give myself at least an hour to wake up, have tea and breakfast, check my phone, brush my teeth and wash my face, etc. If I feel rushed, it really starts my day off on the wrong foot.
Current favorite workout?
Tracy Anderson Method! I have been doing it since 2009. It challenges your body AND your mind. I feel like I'm constantly learning something new and growing and evolving.
Current favorite recipe?
Forever and always my epic avocado toast. I have been eating it every single day for like 6 years now and I never get sick of it! I've added ingredients here and there over the years so it's always evolving, and now it's just bursting with so much flavor. I toast sourdough bread, spread a layer of cream cheese on top, then add mashed avocado. Sprinkle the mashed avocado with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, nutritional yeast, feta cheese, and then squeeze a lemon wedge on top of all that. Then I add a fried egg on top (seasoned with salt and pepper also) and THEN I put this chili crisp on top by Fly by Jing that I am completely obsessed with and want to put on everything I eat. That is my latest addition and it just totally changes my avo toast game!
How do you align your mind, body, and spirit?
My son and I take these evening walks with our two dogs every night before his bath time and it is so lovely! Seeing the world through the eyes of a child is so special. Everything is new and exciting. A stick! A mailbox! Trash cans! It started as a way to get his energy out before bedtime, but has become this really fulfilling routine for me that nourishes my mind, body, and spirit! You don't even need kids or dogs to do this - I encourage anyone to go for a little nature walk. Put your phone away... let your mind wander! See where it takes you.
What is your favorite piece from Spiritual Gangster that helps you move with support and freedom?
I have been wearing my Intent Eco Jersey High Waist Legging and matching bra in Navy Floreale print on heavy rotation, and the flower print makes me so happy! I like to wear really colorful and cheerful workout clothes. Now this is not scientifically proven... but I think it makes you workout harder. :)
