Every photoshoot is unique; I get to create beautiful pictures of extraordinary women. Every time I meet new women who are enthusiastic about contributing to this great community. I can’t imagine anything more inspiring at this point in my life.
The day Hilde was in my studio, we spoke about the subject of body positivity. A trending topic and movement these days. A significant one too, because all bodies are beautiful. How about over 40? I asked the ladies. Spontaneously the conversation turned to self-love and self-acceptance of our aging bodies. Because body positivity is not only about size. Body positivity is the notion that all bodies are equal. That’s it. Nothing crazy. Just the simple notion that all bodies are deserving of the same love, respect, and admiration. Young bodies, fat bodies, tall bodies, large bodies, small bodies, and old(er) bodies are all equal.
Three out of five Bloomers that day suggested taking a nude portrait. As a celebration of their body, without shame or insecurity, body positivity over 40. Today the first from Hilde (58).
What’s Your Career Now?
I work in hospitality, and preferably in a unique environment, such as a hostess at de Keukenhof (a flower bulb park in the Netherlands) or as a waitress in a beach bar. My ambitions are about becoming a lighter and loving person every day. Not about making more money or gathering more possessions. And I like to think that the way I live my happy free life, I can be an inspiration to others.
Something Surprising About The Way You Live Your Life?
I used to travel a lot, but since COVID-19, I travel more and more inside myself. It’s weird also to myself that I don’t feel the need to leave and travel. I live in Zandvoort, and every day I feel blessed with the beach, the dunes, my friends, and my apartment with lots of light and incredible views. I love my easy and simple life.
What would you say is the strangest thing about becoming an older woman?
I find it strange when people talk about their aches and pains as if it’s natural and normal just because they’re getting older. So far, I really don’t experience any problems, and I feel as fit as ever.
Actually, I think everybody is unique and has a story to tell.
What Would You Tweet to Your Younger Self?
Hey sweetheart, take a couple of deep breaths, keep counting your blessings, and don’t sweat the small stuff. Be your beautiful self. I love you!
Most fervent wish for 2020?
That I can keep finding my balance again and again. It has been a challenging year, but it also taught me to be resilient. I am also learning to be more and more aware of what’s really important.
Favorite Beauty Product?
Hyaluronic Acid Cream from Laluset. An amazing and very young-looking American girlfriend once gave me this cream. She showed me the benefits by putting it on the left half of her husband’s face. The difference was pronounced, convincing, and hilarious. It still makes me laugh, and my skin is happy.
How do you stay healthy? Both physically and mentally?
I live in Zandvoort, close to the dunes and the beach. My personal playground. I’m outdoors a lot. I take long walks, I run, and I just love to swim in the sea. Sometimes, on cold and windy days or if the sea is very choppy, I have to convince myself to take my clothes off and go in, but I’m always happy once I get in the water. It’s a perfect way to ‘blow away the cobwebs.’
Every day I sit (meditate) for at least half an hour. I regularly go to Vipassana meditation retreats. I eat healthy, vegan, and delicious. I cherish my connection with my friends. Hugs, hugs are also very important.
I feel more like an ageless soul in an aging body.
What is the first thing you do in the morning to start your day in a positive way?
Every morning, even before opening my eyes, I start with being thankful for my great night’s sleep. I practice gratitude a lot. It used to be an effort. Nowadays, it happens automatically.
After that, I splash my face many times with cold water, make myself a delicious oat milk cappuccino, and sit in silence on my balcony. I call it my coffee-meditation. 🙂
What makes you happy?
Spending time with my daughter. She’s fantastic and so inspiring. Being outdoors. Hiking with friends. Swimming in the sea. Spreading a little love in the world. Smile. Making lives lighter. Trying to make even the most apparently grumpy people smile back at me. Unexpected encounters with special people. Listening to stories.
Actually, I think everybody is unique and has a story to tell. Miracles of nature. La Isla mágica la Gomera. Delicious coffee. This photo-shoot. Rainbows. Heartwarming hugs. Sooooo many things.
What is your age and how old do you feel?
I’m 58, and to me, it’s really just a number, some kind of a label. I feel more like an ageless soul in an aging body. And it’s all okay.
