Sweaty Betty special: Victoria Pendleton & Sophie Everard
Aug 5, 2019
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Olympian Victoria Pendleton and her BFF Sophie Everard discuss their strong connection, extreme cold therapy, challenges faced climbing Everest, the importance of self-care, and the value of genuine friendships.
The importance of friendship in prioritizing self-care and improving mental and emotional well-being through outdoor adventures and physical activities.
The significance of setting boundaries, seeking help for mental health issues, and having a strong support network to overcome challenges and promote healing.
Deep dives
The Power of Friendship and Outdoor Adventure
Victoria Pendleton and Sophie Everard discuss the importance of friendship in their lives and on mental health. They met a few years ago and immediately connected, finding common ground in their love for sports and outdoor adventures. Through their friendship, they support and motivate each other to prioritize self-care and look after their well-being. They emphasize the benefits of getting outdoors, experiencing nature, and engaging in physical activities. They share personal experiences of how outdoor adventures, like surfing and hiking, have helped them overcome difficult times and improve their mental and emotional well-being. They stress the importance of setting boundaries, listening to your body, and finding balance.
The Impact of Hypoxia and Life Challenges on Mental Health
Victoria Pendleton shares her experience with hypoxia during her attempt to climb Everest, and how it became a trigger for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. She also mentions going through a difficult divorce, which added to her emotional struggles. Victoria emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seeking help for mental health issues. She mentions her journey of healing, including the role of exercise and being in nature in her recovery. Sophie Everard, as her close friend, provided support and love during these challenging times, highlighting the importance of having a strong support network.
Honoring Boundaries and Self-Care
Both Victoria and Sophie stress the significance of setting boundaries and practicing self-care. They discuss the pressures of modern society and the importance of being kind to oneself. They share their personal struggles with work, relationships, and feeling overwhelmed. They advocate for listening to your body and mind, taking time for yourself, and not being afraid to express your feelings. They highlight the power of honest and open communication in deep and meaningful friendships, where judgment is replaced with acceptance and understanding.
Finding Meaningful Connections and Making New Friendships
Victoria and Sophie encourage individuals to find new friendships and meaningful connections. They emphasize the value of joining clubs or groups where shared interests and activities can lead to new and supportive relationships. They acknowledge that it is never too late to form new friendships, especially during adulthood. They share their own experiences of meeting new friends through their shared love for sports and adventures. They express the joy of witnessing new friendships form and the positive impact it can have on one's well-being and personal growth.
Why do we have best friends? And what part do they play in finding our happy place?
In this special bonus episode of Happy Place, Olympian track cyclist Victoria Pendleton and her BFF Sophie Everard discuss with Fearne their friendship and what it means to them.
Triggers: reference to eating disorders, depression
Thanks to our sponsors, Sweaty Betty, for arranging this interview with their brand ambassadors. Find out more about their amazing activewear, and - for one week more - get an exclusive special offer when you visit sweatybetty.com/happyplace