If you had told me two years ago that I’d say, “Hello! I’m Belen, and I’m a runner!” I would’ve laughed out loud. Growing up in Ecuador, running was the last thing you’d imagine me doing. Blame it on the intense heat—running in 30-plus-degree weather was far from appealing! I was much happier lounging by the pool with a cold glass of Prosecco, watching others work up a sweat.

In fact, back in school, my gym or football teachers would often remind me, “Ms. Valarezo, run! This is a soccer game, not a runway!.” My friends and I were masters at coming up with excuses to skip workouts; “fitness” just wasn’t part of my lifestyle back then.

But moving to Canada opened my eyes to a whole new world of activity and fitness. Here, I found strength, courage, joy, and even a deep sense of community through running, indoor cycling, and yoga. Over the last two years, I’ve faced some tough challenges, and these physical pursuits became my lifeline. They’ve grounded me, kept me moving forward, and helped me find resilience, even in my hardest moments.

This spring, I signed up for the Mount Robson Half Marathon. It wasn’t just about the race—I needed a challenge to push me forward. Had I ever run more than 3k or 5k? I am not really sure. But I thought, I’m young, I have two legs… what more do I need? Little did I know I was about to experience a whole new level of commitment, strength, and accomplishment.

I joined the local PG Road Runners club, which quickly became my training family. Without their support, guidance, and mentorship, I wouldn’t have made it through. I started with their Half Marathon Clinic at the 10k mark, doubting myself at every step. But with their encouragement, I kept going and completed my first 10k. Then came 12k, 16k, and 18k… all culminating in a 21k run through the biggest rainstorm I’d ever experienced. More than once, I doubted if I should continue. My family thought I was crazy, my friends were impressed but worried I’d end up injured. For a moment, I was the only one who believed I’d finish.

Through this process, I learned the importance of nourishing my body with proper food and hydration, improving my running technique (still a work in progress!), and the magic of stretching—before and after. After three months of treadmill, road, and trail runs, I completed my goal. I ran the 2024 Mount Robson Half Marathon with amazing people who I now call friends.

Plus, the views of the Rockies are something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. Running through those breathtaking landscapes—surrounded by towering peaks, endless forests, and the kind of natural beauty that stops you in your tracks—was nothing short of magical. It reminded me that every step was worth it, not only for the accomplishment but for the privilege of moving through such an awe-inspiring place.

So, how does my fitness journey tie into my work as an interior designer? I believe that to fully appreciate and enjoy our surroundings, we must first care for ourselves—physically and mentally. A well-designed home or workspace can uplift and inspire, helping us feel balanced, focused, and motivated. When we create spaces that reflect our best selves, we set the stage for personal growth and resilience in every part of our lives.

I invite you to set a goal that pushes you—no matter how big or small. It doesn’t have to be a half marathon; it could be as simple as committing to 30 minutes of exercise each week or setting aside time to clean and declutter your space. Just start somewhere! The progress you make in one area of your life will ripple into others, naturally enhancing how you feel within your own home.

Life is what we make of it. Every day, we have the choice to design a life that brings us happiness, peace, and purpose. Whether through fitness or creating beautiful spaces, we have the power to shape both our surroundings and ourselves.

So lace up those shoes, set a goal, and start building the life you want—both inside and out.

With Love, Belen