The recent years saw many women become empowered as they, along with allies, fought the stereotypes that have caged them for years. There is still a long way to go, but truth be told, this might be a never-ending battle. However, the changes are happening and society is slowly releasing its norms and becoming more open to otherwise what used to be unacceptable.

For one thing, the standards of beauty are being drastically challenged. From the age to the size to the color, none of these matters anymore. It is now time to realize that real beauty is in your confidence. So, when it comes to strong and independent women, how can we not highlight Ina Raymundo?

The La Luna Sangre star is an actress, mother, and body positive icon. Now in her late 40s, you would be amazed at seeing her photos flaunting her toned physique. It is hard to notice the picturesque background when she is posing confidently on the foreground. She only proves that despite our responsibilities at home and/or at work, there should be no excuses for us to work out and get fit. Even with her big family, she is able to successfully balance her time and energy among her career, family, and self. 

Giving birth to five children, we could only imagine how much hard work she put into staying in shape in the past years. And in her exclusive Hotspot interview in 2021, she imparted to its host DJ Jhai Ho some of her secrets in maintaining her ravishing figure.

“It’s really a combination and mix of everything, you know. Number one talaga, try to eat healthy, try to eat vegetables, well-balanced food. ‘Di pwedeng ‘pag gusto mo ng ganitong klaseng pagkain, ‘yon at ‘yon ang kakainin mo. I don’t think that’s healthy,” she related. 

Then she went on to advise that we really need to eat fruits, fish, chicken, and complex carbohydrates, like brown rice and red rice. White rice is also a big “no” for her since it has sugar, which makes it more appetizing, as well as oily foods because too much oil is bad for our heart and skin. 

“Too much of anything is bad. Anything [should be] in moderation. Kaya talaga ang mantra ko sa buhay ay ‘balance is key’. Kailangan nasa gitna ka lang. It’s so boring to eat all healthy naman, [so] you have to eat pa rin ‘yong favorite mong junk food once a week or two days a week. Kailangan balance. You enjoy your life, but at the same time, you are mindful of your health,” Ina further reminded.

Moreover, she also explained how important it is to exercise regularly as it helps in blood circulation and making yourself feel good and young. However, it should not be overdone as it’s not going to be healthy, too. We should not forget to drink water, too, because it’s the healthiest drink we could intake.

There are many reasons why Ina is a role model to many women. This gallery is only a small part of that. But, if you are looking for inspiration to get moving and be fit, these photos should do the trick!