LMP member spotlight: Lydia Roolvink
Lydia discovered Pilates while unfortunately going through a dark time with her mental health and now it is such a positive practice in her life that it’s her non negotiable. Along with matcha! I loved learning more about Lydia and she kindly shares with us the most amazing plant based caesar salad which I’ve tested myself and I can say it’s absolutely delicious and full of so much goodness. Read on for the recipe and to find out what Lydia’s favourite LMP class is.
“My mom and dad always taught me to do the things I love, because it’s one of the key things to happiness I think. So, whatever it is, make sure it’s something that you really enjoy, and gives you positive energy. For me Pilates is one of those things, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop doing it. ”
Where are you based?
I'm currently based in Groningen, which is in the north of the Netherlands. I live here with my husband and my cat Bo.
How did you discover Pilates?
I discovered pilates about 2 years ago now, when I was in a bit of a dark place mentally. I was at a point where I couldn't go to work without having a panic attack. At that point I decided to take a week off, a week to recharge, hopefully find myself again. And that's when I decided I might need a good morning routine. Something to wake up for, that would get me excited.
First I did Pilates through the Deliciously Ella app, and I really started to enjoy that. But then I found the classes too short and not strong enough for my liking. So I started to look on youtube and that's when I stumbled across your account. I decided to do a bunch of the free classes and see how that would go. Fair to say that that was exactly what I needed. So I got myself a subscription to your app and honestly, it was and still is the best investment in myself.
Along with Pilates I drink matcha every morning, because coffee gives me the jitters haha. And that is how my morning routine happened.
What’s your favourite class on the LMP platform?
At the moment I'd say my favourite class is the Resistance class small band and mini ball strengthen and stretch. I feel like it covers everything, and I really really love the back bend over the ball. It might be my favorite movement to do. It's also the perfect length to do before I go to work.
Do you have a daily non-negotiable or self-care habit?
I would say the non negotiable for me would be my morning routine. Ok fair enough, I might not always have the headspace for it or the energy, but most of the time when I do it anyway, it gives me energy. There's nothing that wakes me up like Pilates does. And I feel like I need it even more in these darker months. My matcha is also something I feel like I need in the morning. It just sets my day right.
And for the important stuff - what is your favourite food or do you have a favourite recipe you’d like to share with us?
Yes food! Right now my focus is on eating mainly plant based, with a little bit of cheese every now and then. Once a dutchie always a dutchie haha. Right now my favorite recipe is this plant based twist on a caesar salad. It's also a recipe that really focuses on a good amount of protein and healthy fats. It's such a good recipe and amazing for meal prep as well for those busy work days.
THE RECIPE FOR LYDIA’S PLANT BASED CAESAR SALADIngredients4 slices of bread, into bit size chunks240 gram medium firm tofu, cubed400 grams chickpeas, drained and rinsed1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes2 tablespoon olive oil100 grams quinoa100 grams frozen edamame beans80 grams kale, washed and chopped.for the dressing:40 grams sunflower seeds60 grams cashews175 ml oat milk1 tablespoon mustard1 tablespoon nutritional yeast3 tablespoons olive oil1 lemon, juicedMethod:Preheat the oven to 200 degrees.Mix the bread, tofu and chickpeas with the chilli flakes, olive oil and sprinkle over some salt flakes.Arrange this on an oven tray and roast for 20 min or until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to package instructions, and at the last minute, add the frozen edamame beans. Drain and set aside to cool.To make the dressing, simply put all the ingredients in a high speed blender and blitz until smooth and creamy.To serve, toss together the quinoa, edamame beans and the kale in a large bowl. Then arrange on a platter and top with the croutons, tofu and chickpeas. Finish with the dressing drizzled over or mixed in.
Are you working on anything at the moment, personally or professionally?
I guess in a way I am always working on myself, whether that's professionally or personally, I feel like that's ever changing. Right now I just got a new position at work, i've been made manager of the cafe I'm working at. And this comes with its challenges as well. It's finding the right balance between work and my own time. But also the fact that my fear of failure is definitely in the way sometimes. Something I want to deal with while making this new position work for me as well. My approach in this is to just be open about is, and hopefully with time it'll become a bit easier.
Are you reading anything at the moment?
I just finished reading Intermezzo, by Sally Rooney, I feel like most people are reading this at the moment. It's definitely a book that has stuck in my mind for some time now. In a good way. It's very honest, and feels very real. I feel like a lot of people could relate to the story, and the feelings that she describes.
Do you have any advice that has impacted you and wish to share?
Some advice I'd like to share, My mom and dad always taught me to do the things I love, because it's one of the key things to happiness I think. So, whatever it is, make sure it's something that you really enjoy, and gives you positive energy. For me Pilates is one of those things, and i dont think I'll ever stop doing it.
Thank you so much to Lydia for taking the time to chat with us. We are so honoured and grateful to have you as a LMP member and know you will inspire many of us. Check out previous Member Spotlights here…