Ladies’ League Wellness Day event lets women know, “You’re worth it.”

By Ashley Clementovich

While some people chose to spend their Saturday shredding through trails on snowmobiles, a group of women attended the Whitecourt Fish and Game Association’s Ladies’ League Wellness Day at the Allan & Jean Millar Centre. Included in the day was an array of guest speakers, an exercise class, foot massages, and some healthy snack options. It was an entire afternoon dedicated to self-care, reflecting on positive aspects of life, and managing everyday stress.

With warm smiles, WFGA event organizers Kathleen Skrecek and Shannon Hummel welcomed each of the women who walked into the room. Attendee Jamie Moebes praised the event for facilitating this opportunity for women in Whitecourt.

Once everyone was seated comfortably, Arbonne consultant Sue Peterson, a Whitecourt resident of 15 years, provided the group with a sample facial cleansing kit. The ladies laughed and joked together as they slathered different products on their faces. Peterson spoke about the importance of taking care of your skin by using quality products. Peterson’s message was that, although we all want smaller pores and fewer lines, the more important point is to take time for self-care. In a room full of busy women, Peterson’s message had an impact. Regardless of how hectic life can become, it’s important to take time to look after yourself.

Fitness guru Challa Leidl was ready to educate the group on the positive effects of healthy eating and exercise. “I want to help other women realize they are beautiful inside and out,” said Leidl. As she passed out recipes for sweet potato pancakes and other healthy snack options, the women began sharing their own tips and tricks for managing a well-balanced diet within a busy lifestyle. “I just want to know how to make a cauliflower smoothie that tastes like a really nice Chardonnay,” commented attendee Karen Decoux. Everyone in the room, including Leidl, laughed and agreed.

For the exercise portion of the afternoon, the ladies attended a TRX and rolling sampler class lead by fitness instructor Kara Grywacheski. After some deep lunges and squats followed by an intense tension ball session, everyone felt energized with endorphins, and ready for the keynote speaker.

Life coach Billie-Jo Wickhorst led a great conversation about sources of stress, and how it can be managed. Through discussion, the group began sharing its areas of worry, finding commonalities in health, loss, and relationships. Wickhorst agreed, stating that such stresses are always present in life, but should never fuel a feeling of guilt about taking time to care for yourself. She reminded the group to reflect on all the responsibilities they juggle daily. “We are actually pretty amazing creatures,” stated Wickhorst.

On top of being a great all-women organization, the WFGA Ladies’ League is an educational platform for women to learn outdoor activities. Chairperson Kathleen Skrecek described how women often find learning hands on activities in a female-dominated environment more relaxing. Women are global learners, and often need context for what they’re doing. They ask why they are doing something and prefer to understand it from the ground up. The Ladies’ League provides this type of learning environment, free of judgment, and with amazing support.

Although an WFGA membership is not essential to join the Ladies’ League, it is required for use of the archery and gun range, and for the yearly camping retreat. Memberships can be purchased at Moose Country Petro Canada or Big Guy Outdoor Sports. The next event will be ice fishing in March at Carson Lake. For more information, visit the WFGA Ladies’ League Facebook page.