Dear Reader,

Its difficult for me to start this newsletter without addressing the current drought crisis in the country. With the looming political climate where the Government is being accused of neglecting communities affected by the drought, we are constantly consuming news that breaks our hearts on a daily basis. Superheroes like Esther Akoth a.k.a 'Akothee' took to social media to raise awareness on the dire situation urging Kenyans to support their fellow brothers and sisters. To date, she has been able to raise 3 Million Kenyan Shillings and the number continues to increase but more is needed to help those affected.

-CALL TO ACTION-

On a more positive note, let's drive right into our mandate. Its hard to believe that we are in the last week of March but there is also something special about ushering in a new month with new goals to accomplish. If you're thinking about starting to embrace a wholesome active lifestyle, you came to the right place. One of the basic principles of fitness is that you need to push yourself outside your comfort zone. In order for our muscles to grow stronger, we have to constantly and consistently engage them. Similarly in life, we learn to embrace adversity and tribulations in order to become mentally resilient.

All growth depends upon activity. There is no development physically or intellectually without effort, and effort means work. Welcome to Tizi Talks with Mariam Hatibu Muhammed! The first time I met Mariam, I happened to be at Smart Gym directing a shoot where we were featured Bernard Ndong. In case you never got a chance to see his fitness story, here is the link to his feature.

Back to Mariam! I knew her from social media where she showcases her impeccable make up skills as a former MAC retail artist based at the Junction Mall. She is currently a freelance make-up artist focusing on artistry and beauty vlogging but what caught my attention was her consistency with her workouts and her positive energy which radiates through her social media platform.

I am sure you can guess where I am going with this; I asked her to spill the tea on her fitness journey which she gracefully accepted to do. We met at Salmer Fitness for a yoga shoot where she blew me away with her beauty, warm heart and humility.

Mariam started working out eight months ago after being inspired by her clients who looked great at their age as a result of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The opening of Smart Gyms at the mall she was working in was also a huge motivator.

As a result of taking up a health conscious lifestyle, she has higher energy levels, improved sleeping patterns, better mental health and is in great shape as you can see. Being active has also helped her to appreciate the importance of discipline and consistency to achieve her goals.

Her fitness routine is a combination of strength training and yoga which she practices on weekends (her favourite). Although she found it difficult to balance work and fitness due to fatigue and time management she explains that her body eventually adjusted to the routine.

Finding time in the morning to break a sweat and prepare healthy meals before her work shift has helped her achieve a balance. P.s Did I mention that she has a weakness for almond croissants and chocolate fudge cake? Once she started seeing results of her hard work at the gym, she never looked back and constsantly strives to be the best version of herself.

As we concluded the shoot on a warm sunny afternoon, I asked her what she would say to someone who wants to start their wellness journey.

Yours in Wellness

@tizitalks

Credits

Photography: Loise Machira

Location: Salmer Fitness

Wardobe: Nike