Beauty queen Selena Antonio Reyes’ inspiring journey to wellness

The pandemic served as a wake-up call, prompting Selena Reyes to reject societal expectations and reclaim her identity as an athlete and fitness enthusiast. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Selena Antonio Reyes

Miss Universe Philippines Pasig, Selena Antonio Reyes, is dedicated to uplifting the welfare and personal development of women and girls in Pasig City. Her talents seamlessly blend into her life, and her journey of overcoming mental and physical challenges after becoming a mother serves as an inspiration to all.   

Given her background as a prizewinning gymnast, her keen aptitude for sports has remained with her even into her 30s. Thus, it isn’t surprising that her trim and toned physique easily led her to victory in the ageless category of Century Tuna’s Superbods 2022. 

MISS Universe Philippines Pasig Selena Antonio Reyes.

“My wellness journey began in my early years as a gymnast, where discipline and consistency were ingrained in me. Despite my love for sports, after having two kids, I felt like I had let myself go amidst the demands of motherhood,” shares Reyes.

A deeper impetus for Reyes’ drive to stay fit and healthy arose from her experience with postpartum depression following the birth of her eldest child. This condition, which has incapacitated millions of women worldwide, could have affected her similarly.

A few years after giving birth to her youngest, her family faced a health crisis when her husband had a cancer scare. This became a turning point for her, as she found strength in her love for her family. It made her realize the importance of taking care of herself and her family. The pandemic served as a wake-up call, prompting her to reject societal expectations and reclaim her identity as an athlete and fitness enthusiast.

A deeper impetus for Reyes’ drive to stay fit and healthy arose from her experience with postpartum depression following the birth of her eldest child.

After dealing with the baby blues, she chose to advocate for overall wellness, encouraging others to strive for a healthy physique and mind.

“Fitness became my therapy. It helped me navigate the challenges of being a new mom and dealing with the stress of my husband’s health scare. With each passing day, I emerged stronger and more resilient, for myself and my family,” says Selena.  

Exercise became her sanctuary as she discovered the powerful connection between physical and mental well-being. Through perseverance and dedication, she not only transformed her body but also nurtured her mind.

“I am proud to say that my identity as an athlete and fitness enthusiast has revealed the profound link between physical well-being and mental health,” said Reyes.