Salma Hayek, the celebrated actress and producer, has recently shared some candid insights into her body image and fitness routine. While many might assume her youthful figure is the result of grueling gym sessions, Hayek confesses that she rarely exercises in the conventional sense. Instead, she emphasizes a holistic approach that combines mindful movement, a balanced diet, and a unique form of meditation. This approach not only helps her maintain her physique but also contributes to her overall well-being.
“Content,” Not “Thrilled”: Salma’s Evolving Body Image
In a recent interview with Marie Claire, Salma Hayek opened up about her body image, describing herself as “content” rather than “thrilled” with her figure. While she avoids comparing herself to others, she admits to longing for the body she had at 25, a body she “criticized and hated nonstop” at the time. This honest reflection highlights the often-complex relationship women have with their bodies and the shifting perceptions of beauty over time.
Hayek has also spoken about the challenges of body image as she enters her fifties. In a 2016 interview with InStyle UK, she shared that body confidence “isn’t that good” all the time, acknowledging the ups and downs that everyone experiences. Despite these moments of insecurity, Hayek emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and celebrating life.
The “Surprising” Workout Routine: Treadmill Walks and Restorative Yoga
Contrary to popular belief, Salma Hayek isn’t a gym regular. In fact, she revealed that she rarely exercises to maintain her physique. “Four times a year, I put music on and walk on my own treadmill,” she surprisingly confessed. However, she humorously added, “Don’t ask me to run; my boobs are not made for that.”
Beyond occasional treadmill walks, Hayek credits restorative yoga and mindful movement for her toned physique. She works with a woman in London who taught her how to engage her muscles throughout the day, even during simple activities like brushing her teeth. This technique involves holding her body in a way that activates the muscles without clenching them, promoting a toned physique without the need for dedicated workout sessions.
This approach aligns with Hayek’s philosophy of finding enjoyable ways to move her body. She also enjoys walking her dogs, considering it one of her most regular forms of exercise. Swimming is another key component of her fitness routine, offering a low-impact, full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, builds strength, and promotes flexibility.
The Importance of Meditation: A “Walk in the Park”
Salma Hayek has emphasized the role of meditation in maintaining her figure and overall well-being. She believes that meditation, rather than strenuous exercise, is the key to her shape. “People say it’s exercising. I think it’s meditation,” she told Entertainment Tonight in September. “You have to find your way. For me, exercising is hard… It’s really, really difficult to have the discipline to do it. But meditation is a walk in the park because it’s my own form of it.”
Hayek practices a unique form of meditation that involves “feeling the energy” and allowing it to move and dance inside of her. She explained that this practice helps her connect with her body and stay present in the moment. She also noted that radio and micro-frequency machines work exceptionally well for her, keeping her skin tight and youthful.
Diet and Nutrition: Embracing a Balanced Approach
While Salma Hayek doesn’t like to diet, she emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet. She is a self-confessed foodie who enjoys sampling cuisines from around the world. “I don’t like to diet, and I’m not good at it,” she has said. Instead of restricting herself, she prefers to eat a balanced diet full of nutritious foods and less nutritious foods that feed her soul.
Hayek’s breakfast often includes a medley of berries, fruits, and vegetables, topped with yogurt, papaya, blueberries, mango, strawberries, pomegranate seeds, celery, red pepper, cucumber, almond, and coconut butter. For lunch, she enjoys a hearty avocado and chicken sandwich or her mother’s tamales. She is also a fan of Latin food and enjoys recreating Mexican dishes for dinner.
Juice Cleanse
Hayek uses juicing to get ready for major events and reset her health. She founded Cooler Cleanse, a line of organic pressed juices designed for three-to-five-day cleanses. “When I feel stressed, I turn to food for comfort,” Hayek said. “After doing a juice cleanse, I’m motivated to eat healthier and not emotionally. Cleansing is like my meditation. It makes me stop, focus, and think about what I’m putting into my body. I’m making a commitment to my health and hitting the reset button.”
Challenging Ageism: “Women Are Not Disposable”
Salma Hayek has been a vocal advocate for older women in Hollywood, challenging ageism and promoting body positivity. “Another calling that I have is to remind everyone that women are not disposable after a certain age in any department,” she stated.
Hayek has also spoken about the challenges of finding roles as an older woman in an industry where some women find it hard to find work over the age of 30. She noted that she doesn’t fit into stereotypes of a woman who should continue to work and that her success has something to do with karma.
By embracing her age and promoting body positivity, Salma Hayek is an inspiration to women of all ages. Her honest confessions about her body image and her “surprising” workout routine offer a refreshing perspective on health and wellness, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance, mindful movement, and a balanced approach to diet and exercise.
