ON DUTY CITIZEN
HANNAH LARSON
1) What are some “big kid” activities you love to do that keeps you youthful?
I was a ballet dancer for fifteen years, so I’ve long associated the act of movement and expression with childhood joy. While I no longer dance, I try to implement some type of physical activity into my daily life. In addition, I love to paint and create beautiful content and imagery for my blog.
2) Beyond modeling, what are some cool projects, hobbies or side hustles you’re working on?
The Healthful Model is my blog where I communicate my passion for living well with a specific focus of food, fitness, travel and mental health. I place a strong emphasis on sharing information that’s backed by science and not by trends or brands. The advice I share is designed to be accessible, inspiring and inclusive to all. -It’s so nice to have the ODM community growing, especially with such likeminded models like yourself. So happy we were connected through social media! You can find all Hannah’s info below on all things relating to health, wellness and fashion!
Website: www.hannahblarson.com
Instagram: @thehealthfulmodel
Facebook: Hannah Larson – The Healthful Model
Twitter: @HealthfulModel
3) Part of what’s so great about being a model is having a following on social media. What are some important messages you try to pass on to your followers?
In the early stages of planning my blog, I spent a great deal of time brainstorming the most important qualities I wanted the messaging and branding of my blog to transmit. Of those qualities, authenticity kept popping up.
My belief is that social media and digital platforms like blogging also come with a responsibility. When I share something with my community, I want them to sense my honesty and vulnerability. On our social feeds, we’re exposed to an endless stream of filtered, edited and contrived content. I’m trying swim in the opposite direction by sharing the truest version of myself in every post. In turn, this allows me to reach my readers in a deeper and more rewarding way; a human-like connection on a platform not initially designed for genuine connection. -I couldn’t agree more! I often think of our social media followings as a privilege. It’s a privilege I have X amount of followers listening to me so I too want to make sure I’m sharing my most authentic self. It can be a means of depression and hurt for a lot of people but if done right, we have the power to positively influence a lot of people! You do an incredible job and I’m sure a lot of young models look up to you because of it!
4) You’re flying to a new city for a couple days of work. It’s a short trip- what are you packing?
Always a few pairs of high-wasted skinny jeans in different washes.
James Perse t-shirts and tanks.
A versatile jacket or blazer.
Leggings and sports bras for the gym.
A few scarves because they’re easy to pack and can completely upgrade a look.
1 pair of neutral toned ballet flats, 1 pair of heels and 1 pair of athletic shoes.
My makeup bag filled with all my green beauty and skincare essentials.
5) The fashion industry is quite wasteful, yet some companies and brands are trying to make a difference. Whether it’s a clean beauty brand or an ethical/sustainable company, do you have any favorites that stick out?
Beauty: W3ll People, Vapour Organic Beauty, Kosas Cosmetics, Acure and Coola.
Fashion: Vintage finds, Reformation and Rêve En Vert.
6) What are some of your go-to self-care rituals?
I exercise daily which usually comes in the form of a run. I have a love/hate relationship with running because I completely dread the act of lacing up my sneakers and getting outside, but always love the feeling afterwards. I also practice yoga either at home or at my local CorePower studio.
I choose to get my nutrition through whole-food sources rather than pills, supplements and potions, so fresh vegetables and fruits; fermented foods (like miso, kimchi or kraut) and plant-based protein are an essential part of my everyday self-care routine.
I also live with depression and anxiety. I choose the word live because I have learned to thrive with mental illness with the support of a psychiatrist and pharmaceuticals. Mental health is just as important as physical health and I have no shame in saying that these modalities play a crucial role in my self-care.
Lastly, sleep and meditation: 8 hours of sleep every night and 20 minutes of mediation or journaling to end the day. Nothing fancy.
