Hanging out with Steph Mcdonald

You may have come across this uber cool Sydney chick while you were scrolling through a sea of instagram pics, she goes by the insta name of @betterbeingsteph. Steph is a passionate advocate of health and wellness, devoting most of her time to keeping active, creating beautiful nourish bowls and inspiring her community of over 40,000 people! She would have to be one of the most down to earth, selfless people I know, willing to do literally anything to help someone in need. Get to know this caring soul a little more below!

So tell us… Who is Steph?

Hi! I’m Steph, a 23 year old health-advocate living in Sydney Australia.
I’m currently working as an Administrative Assistant and Project Manager for a healthy food brand, as well as working part-time at a juice bar. I have completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology with Honours, and am considering returning to studies for a Nutritionist course!

In my spare time I devote my energy to the gym, my friends, brunch dates and organising events for a movement called the #GirlGains, which I’m the Australian ambassador for. I also love writing and sharing my story through my Instagram page, and working alongside brands such as Sneaky Wholefoods, Sprout Market, Labang Body, Chobani Australia and Blue Dinosaur Bars to spread my love for healthy living and passion (aka addiction) for snack foods!

I’m an introvert at heart, but am finding my voice and passion for empowering others to look after themselves, to find balance and to reach a stage where they feel content, comfortable and sustainable in their lifestyle.

How do you like to keep active?

I absolutely love going to the gym! I normally train by myself and focus on 5-6 workouts a week that incorporate a mixture of HIIT and weight training. Every now and then I’ll join a class with one of my friends – my favourite so far is f45. I also walk everywhere, and love being on my feet for most of the day!

What are some of the struggles you have encountered on your life journey?

My biggest struggle has been finding my own sweet spot of balance. I’ve gone from being overweight, to severely underweight with an eating disorder, and still face many mental demons when it comes to food and exercise. It’s definitely a challenge to reach a place where you’re taking part in “healthy” things for the right reason, and treating your body with love and respect, rather than pushing it to attain some “aesthetic” or number-based goal.

The mind is definitely our biggest limit – and I think for me tapping into my mentality and becoming insightful of my thinking patterns has been a huge help in overcoming some of my struggles so far.

What advice would you give to women who are just starting out in their health and fitness journey?

DO IT FOR THE RIGHT REASONS!
Really try to address WHY you’re embarking on this journey – and keep that purpose sustainable, realistic and positive. Don’t focus on end-dates, numbers on the scales, what your friends are doing, or get caught up in hypes, trends and quick-fixes. You have to really want this for yourself, and have a purpose that is enjoyable and fulfilling to work towards.

Yes, you can go to the gym with the intention of looking better, getting a flatter stomach or a bigger booty, but your primary reasons should be things like “to feel stronger”, “to get fitter” or “to prove to myself that I can do things I never thought I could”. Health and fitness journeys are challenging and require hard work – but they shouldn’t be painful or miserable.

Do you have a favourite quote or saying?

My favourite quote at the moment is “You can’t live a full life on an empty stomach or soul”.
I just love how simply it captures the notion that you can’t be focusing all your energy onto eating less, denying yourself of experiences or saying no to opportunities because you think it’ll help your health/fitness goals. At the end of the day, you need to really nourish yourself with an adequate diet, surround yourself with fulfilling company, and always see things for the experiences and opportunities they give you – only then will you be truly living and enjoying life.

You seem like a pretty on-the-go kind of gal, how do you like to kick back and relax?

I’m not too good at relaxing, I have to be honest! I dedicate at least 30-60 minutes every night after dinner to sitting alone in my room and watching Youtube, journaling and foam rolling. It really centres me, gets me feeling prepared for the next day, and gives me some time to be by myself! I’d love to start committing to yoga and treating myself to monthly massages though!

Lastly, some quick fun questions!

Tea or Coffee?

Ok this one is the toughest by far.
I used to never drink Coffee until around 3 months ago. Now i’m an addict! But I think i’ll have to go with tea! Herbal teas are my go-to in the mornings and at night. Nothing is more soothing than a warm cup of tea.