MY STORY
I was born and raised in Poland. As a child, I spent most of my free time climbing trees, swimming in wild rivers, running through corn fields, making fire camps, and sleeping under the stars. I always enjoyed being active.
When I moved to Canada in 2010, my passion for fitness grew. Between completing my English certificate at McGill, and getting married, I was on my way to building a solid foundation and future for myself. I had also developed a deep enjoyment for CrossFit and interval training, which gave me the strength to persevere through the challenges of acclimating to a new life.
In 2014, I was blessed with the best news – I became pregnant with my son Jakub. During the pregnancy, he had anemia which caused heart problems, and the extent of his physical challenges would remain unclear until his birth which took place 32 weeks into my pregnancy. He was born with pulmonary hypertension, and after a 38-day battle, my little soldier that fought so bravely passed away.
This was the darkest time of my life. I felt ashamed and guilty. I felt like I had failed my son and I was overwhelmed with sadness. I asked myself questions, “how can I as a healthy, athletic individual not give birth to a healthy child?” I lost my confidence and questioned my life’s purpose.
I eventually decided that it was time to begin my healing journey. I knew I needed to start by regaining my strength and health. I still remember the tears running down my cheeks after my first workout. I was out of shape but kept training in my living room. Eventually, I gained the courage to join a gym and participate in outdoor obstacle courses.
During the darkest times of my life, fitness became my therapy, during which I felt free.
It would not be an overstatement to say that fitness saved my life.
With my newfound strength, I decided to push beyond my comfort zone and signed up to participate in my first ever regional bodybuilding competition. I worked hard, listened to my coach, and in lower days – felt the energy of my little angel pushing me forward.
I placed 1st at regionals and then at provincials
In 2016, I finished my BA at Concordia University with distinction.
In 2017 I went on to place top 4 in the National Fitness Competition.
My fitness journey was published in Oxygen and Inside Fitness Women Magazine.
To most, I seemed to have accomplished a great deal. But behind the curtains the universe had much more for me to overcome. In 2018, I got divorced. I developed an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, food and pretty much lost myself and my sense of purpose.
I realized that while I was trying to build a stronger body, I was starving my soul.
My journey was a rollercoaster of progress and setbacks, until I stumbled upon a retreat in Sedona Mago, Arizona, “Finding Your True Self”.
I was leery, as my relationship with spirituality was non-existent at the time. Nor did I believe in the benefits of practicing mindfulness. But I gave it a try and this decision would change my life forever.
During the retreat, I discovered my passion for helping others. I fell in love with the practice of mindfulness and learned about the idea of letting go, the power of being in the present moment and connecting to your true self. I forgave myself for past mistakes and learned to love myself again.
I REMOVED EVERYTHING FROM MY LIFE THAT WAS TOXIC.
I started practicing mindfulness daily, investing in my self-development by reading books and listening to podcasts.