Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming Aurelia Rick for an interview on our Naelucare.com blog. Aurelia is a rising German water sports athlete who has settled on the island of Sylt. At just 23 years old, she has already demonstrated impressive skills in various water sports disciplines such as wing foiling and kitesurfing. Her passion for water sports began early, and since then, she has continuously developed her skills. We look forward to learning more about her journey, experiences, and future plans.

Naelucare: Aurelia, thank you for taking the time to talk to us today. Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into water sports?

Aurelia Rick: My pleasure. I started kiting with my dad in 2005 when I was a little girl. We always went to Brittany for vacations to get our water sports fix. I started seriously during the summer holidays when I was about 15 or 16. Spending a year as an au pair in Malmö, Sweden, really got me hooked. The vibe of the city, the laid-back lifestyle, and the local skating scene were real eye-openers for me. It inspired me to explore the world with my kite.

Naelucare: The sport is known to be quite expensive. How did you manage to pursue your passion despite that?

Aurelia Rick: Yes, it is. To fund my sport, I trained to become a kite instructor in Büsum. During that time, I fell in love with a guy from Sylt. Anyone who knows Boy Ole will understand why 😉 Since then, we’ve been traveling the world together, and I commute between Flensburg and Sylt to keep up with my studies.

Naelucare: What are you studying, and how do you balance your studies with your passion for water sports?

Aurelia Rick: I’m studying math and technology to become a teacher. It can be challenging to juggle everything, but I’ve decided to try the remote work lifestyle after graduation. This will give me the freedom to work from anywhere while continuing to pursue my sport.

Naelucare: You’ve already had some success in a wing foil competition. What are your future plans in water sports?

Aurelia Rick: Yes, that’s true, and I’m very proud of it. In the future, I want to see the world and focus on wind, slalom, and freestyle disciplines. I have big plans and aim to be at the forefront of these sports.

Naelucare: What advice would you give to other young people who also aspire to a career in water sports?

Aurelia Rick: Follow your heart and don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams. It’s important not to be discouraged by the costs or challenges. Find ways to fund your dream, whether through a job or training in the sport. And most importantly, enjoy every moment on the water.

Naelucare: You’ve taken a very inspiring path. How important is the lifestyle and freedom that water sports bring to you?

Aurelia Rick: The lifestyle and freedom that come with water sports are essential to me. It’s a way of life that allows me to explore the world, experience new cultures, and do what I love. It’s an incredibly fulfilling feeling, and I couldn’t imagine a better life.

Naelucare: Thank you, Aurelia, for your inspiring words and for sharing your story with us. We at Team Naelu wish you all the best for your future. We are sure you will continue to achieve great things.

Aurelia Rick: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.

Der Beitrag Interview with Aurelia Rick: A Young Water Sports Enthusiast on the Rise erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

In this exclusive interview, we delve into Clem’s remarkable story, exploring her dual identity as both a seasoned athlete and the founder of bed & desk (https://bed-and-desk.com/), a unique venture aimed at revolutionizing remote work culture in France. Join us as we uncover the secrets to Clem’s success, her thoughts on the future of work, and her unwavering commitment to balancing career and passion.

Naelucare: Clem, thank you for taking the time to chat with us today. Let’s start with your early years. How did growing up in Brittany influence your love for water sports?
Clémence Derrien: It’s a pleasure to be here, thank you for having me. Growing up in Brittany was like being immersed in a water sports paradise. With my father being one of the first active surfers in the region, I was practically born with a board under my arm. Windsurfing became second nature to me by the age of 11, and from there, it was a natural progression into kiteboarding, a sport my entire family embraced wholeheartedly.

Naelucare: Your journey from recreational enthusiast to professional kitesurfer is remarkable. Can you share some highlights from your competitive career?
Clémence Derrien: Competing on the world stage was a dream come true for me. I’ll never forget the adrenaline rush of my first World Tour in kitesurfing back in 2020. Balancing my career at the Louvre in Abu Dhabi with my passion for kitesurfing was challenging, but it allowed me to experience some incredible moments, like those 200km downwinders in Oman. And of course, there was that unforgettable encounter with a shark during a foil competition – a story I’ll be telling for years to come!

Naelucare: Your transition from professional athlete to entrepreneur is equally impressive. Tell us about bed & desk and how it aims to reshape the future of remote work.
Clémence Derrien: Bed & desk was born out of a desire to bridge the gap between remote work and meaningful experiences. After returning to France from Abu Dhabi, I noticed a lack of options for remote teams looking to escape the confines of traditional office spaces. That’s where bed & desk comes in – we offer unique and inspiring locations where teams can work remotely while immersing themselves in breathtaking surroundings. Our platform digitalizes the booking process, making it easier than ever to find the perfect workspace away from home.

Naelucare: It’s clear that you’re passionate about both your sporting career and your entrepreneurial endeavors. How do you manage to balance the two?
Clémence Derrien: Balancing my career as a kitesurfer with my role as an entrepreneur isn’t always easy, but it’s all about prioritizing and staying true to what matters most to me. I’ve learned to embrace the challenges and find harmony between work and play. For me, success isn’t just about achieving goals in one area of life – it’s about finding fulfillment in every aspect, whether that’s riding the waves or building a business.

Naelucare: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring athletes or entrepreneurs who are looking to follow in your footsteps?
Clémence Derrien: My advice would be simple: don’t wait for the perfect moment to chase your dreams. Whether it’s competing on the world stage or starting your own business, the only thing holding you back is fear. Take risks, embrace failure, and above all, trust in your abilities. And remember, it’s never too late to pursue your passions – the journey is just as important as the destination.

Naelucare: Thanks, Clem, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. It’s been truly enlightening to hear about your journey from the waves to the boardroom. We wish you continued success in both your sporting endeavors and entrepreneurial pursuits. Until next time!
Clémence Derrien: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure.

P.s.: Please check out Clem’s company https: https://bed-and-desk.com/

Der Beitrag From Waves to Workspaces: Clémence Derrien’s Journey of Adventure and Entrepreneurship erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

Join us as we delve into an inspiring conversation with Imke, where she shares insights into her remarkable journey. 

Naelucare: Imke, your passion and dedication have propelled you from the equestrian arena to the pulsating tracks and trails across continents, where you’ve left your mark as a formidable force in the world of endurance sports. We’re truly honored to have you here with us.
Imke: Thank you, Naelucare. It’s a pleasure to be here and share my story. 

Naelucare: Let’s delve into your journey. You began your athletic odyssey in the captivating world of equestrian sports. Could you provide us with insights into your experiences in that realm?
Imke: Certainly. My journey commenced in competitive equestrianism as part of the country squad, where I was immersed in the intricacies of horsemanship and the thrill of competition. However, as enchanting as that world was, it demanded an unparalleled level of commitment and dedication.  

Naelucare: What prompted the transition from the equestrian arena to the fast-paced world of running?
Imke: It was a moment of clarity, a realization of the sheer simplicity and freedom that running offered. The thought of lacing up my shoes and hitting the open road resonated deeply with me. Initially, it was the allure of accessibility and the ease of participation that drew me towards running. 

Naelucare: Your journey then led you to Cologne, where you pursued sports studies and delved deeper into the realm of triathlon. Could you elaborate on that transition?
Imke: Absolutely. Cologne served as the catalyst for my immersion into the dynamic world of triathlon. The city’s vibrant sporting culture and great facilities provided the perfect backdrop for me to hone my skills and pursue my passion. Joining the training with amazing athletes and role models marked a significant milestone in my journey. 

Naelucare: You also ventured across the Atlantic to the United States, where you secured a sports scholarship and furthered your athletic pursuits in running. How did that opportunity unfold?
Imke: Securing a sports scholarship for my master’s program in the USA was a pivotal moment in my journey. It afforded me the opportunity to immerse myself in the intense and competitive running scene at the Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale (north of Miami) The experience broadened my horizons and fueled my determination to excel in the world of professional sports. 

Naelucare: Throughout your time in Miami, you ventured into the realm of triathlons alongside your university running career, achieving notable success. Among your triumphs was winning the Escape from Miami race and being honored with the NCAA Division II Female Sportsmanship Award. Your decision to halt your race and aid an injured competitor speaks volumes about your character and uniqueness.
Imke: Sometimes, especially during competitions, life takes unexpected turns. I knew every single athlete competing in this race trained incredibly hard and the mere thought of not being able to finish is undeniably frustrating. This prompted me to snap into action and focus on encouraging another competitor that fell during her race, to keep going. When I realized she physically couldn’t, I simply stayed to let her know she was not alone until proper help was on the way. At the finish line that day, it unexpectedly became more about sportsmanship than winning a trophy.  

Naelucare: Despite the demands of your athletic pursuits, you now reside on Fehmarn, where you balance family life with two little girls and an Asics runner. How do you manage to juggle these diverse responsibilities?
Imke: Balancing my various roles and responsibilities requires a delicate equilibrium of passion, dedication, and effective time management. Embracing my roles as a coach and an Asics runner allows me to channel my passion for sports while nurturing and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Additionally, the unwavering support of my family has been instrumental in navigating the intricacies of balancing family life with my athletic endeavors. 

Naelucare: For those who may seek your guidance and expertise, how can they connect with you for coaching?
Imke: Individuals interested in exploring coaching opportunities can reach out to me through https://kickasssports.de/kickass-sports-fehmarn/ .I am dedicated to empowering and guiding aspiring athletes on their journey towards success. 

Naelucare: Thank you, Imke, for sharing your extraordinary journey and insights with us. Your story is truly inspirational.
Imke: Thank you for the opportunity to share my experiences. It has been a pleasure. 

Der Beitrag Trailblazing Triumphs: Celebrating Imke Oelerich as our Woman of the Week erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

Born and raised on the picturesque shores of Lake Garda, Greta was destined to be a water sport aficionado. With a windsurfing pro for a father, she was introduced to the sport at a tender age, and it didn’t take long for her to fall in love with the rush of the wind and the challenge of the waves. Greta’s life story is a tapestry woven with threads of adventure, optimism, and an unquenchable thirst for life.

In this exclusive interview with Naelucare, Greta opens up about her life, her passions, and the journey that has shaped her into the icon she is today. From her earliest memories on a surfboard to her current role as a marketing manager in the water sports industry, Greta shares insights into a life led on the edge of excitement and joy. Her experiences, challenges, and triumphs are not just her story but an inspiration to many who dream of riding the waves of their passions.

Join us as we dive into the world of Greta Marchegger, a woman whose life is as deep and captivating as the waters she so loves.

Naelucare: Welcome, Greta! To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Greta Marchegger: Sure! I’m Greta, 30 years young and a water chick at heart. I’m a windsurfer, winger, and basically addicted to all kinds of boards. I’m a travelholic, beach bum, and what my friends would call a sunshine. I see myself as a hopeless optimist and romantic. Overall, I’m a full-time life lover!

Naelucare: That’s wonderful! What would you say is your passion?
Greta: Windsurfing is my primary passion, and lately, I’ve also gotten into wing foiling. But really, I love all water sports and board activities. Surfing, longboarding – both in the water and on the street – are my favorites. Besides that, I’m an avid traveler, which is another big addiction of mine. And, like many, I also enjoy shopping, dancing, and just having a good time.

Naelucare: How did you get into your sport?
Greta: I owe it to my dad, a former windsurfing pro, and my upbringing on the beautiful shores of Lake Garda. Windsurfing was almost my cradle song. I’ve been on a board since I was eight, competed for many years, coached kids, and am a member of the board at Circolo Surf Torbole. I’ve been hosting windsurfing competitions for a few years now, so you could say I’m deeply involved in all aspects of windsurfing.

Naelucare: How long have you been involved in this sport?
Greta: It feels like forever, really. Growing up by Lake Garda, you naturally slide into it. It’s become a part of my life, and I can’t imagine living without it.

Naelucare: Can you share a memorable experience or one that shaped you?
Greta: Thanks to this incredible sport and lifestyle, I’ve had countless amazing adventures and experiences. Just last week, I was on a surf trip in the Maldives, where I swam with Nurse Sharks. That was a truly unique and goosebump-inducing moment for me.

Naelucare: What advice would you give to your younger self?
Greta: Don’t take everything so seriously! I’d describe myself as sensitive and emotional, both in good and bad ways. I’m a bit of an overthinker and tend to take things to heart. I’d advise my younger self that things will unfold as they should and to be less hard on myself.

Naelucare: Is there anything you would do differently today?
Greta: Not really. I’m grateful for how things have turned out. Sure, there are things I might have done differently in hindsight, but that’s always easy to say. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason.

Naelucare: How do you integrate your passion into your daily life?
Greta: I work in the water sports industry as a marketing manager for Neilpryde and JP. I shifted from competing to a professional role within the sport, just changing my focus. Working with your own passion is the best thing you can do. I’m often invited to host at various windsurf events and competitions.

Naelucare: Lastly, is there anything on your bucket list that you’re eager to tackle?
Greta: A trip to Tahiti is high on my to-do list, and I’m also keen to try skydiving.

Naelucare: Thank you, Greta, for sharing your inspiring journey with us. Your passion for water sports and life is truly infectious!
Greta Marchegger: Thank you for having me!

Der Beitrag Embracing the Tide: Greta Marchegger’s Journey of Passion and Waves erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

In the world of big air kitesurfing, few names have risen as meteorically as Nora Klement, the 23-year-old sensation from Lüneburg, Germany. With a vibrant shock of red hair and a spirit to match, Nora has turned her early trepidation about kitesurfing into a burning passion that has led her to the world stage. In a few short years, she’s become the definitive address for big air prowess in Germany, and her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and following one’s heart. We sat down with Nora for an exclusive chat about her journey, her challenges, and the skies she’s yet to conquer. Join us as we dive deep with this extraordinary talent.

Naelucare: Hello Nora! It’s an honor to have you with us. Let’s start at the beginning. You’re a star now, but you began your kite journey in 2014. Can you tell us about your first experience?

Nora: Hi, and thanks for having me! Well, when I first tried kiting, I was honestly quite scared. It seemed daunting, but after my internship at a kite school, something clicked, and I’ve been in love with the sport ever since.

Naelucare: That’s quite a transformation! We’ve heard about your dedication. You work almost 10 months a year, from station manager to kite school teacher roles. How do you manage the grueling schedule and your passion?

Nora: It’s been challenging, I won’t deny. But my love for kitesurfing keeps me going. Working in various roles related to kitesurfing helps me stay connected to my passion. Plus, I’ve had to work hard to fund my dream. Every moment on the board in the air makes the sacrifices worth it.

Naelucare: Speaking of sacrifices, we’ve learned about the strong support system you have in your friends. How have they influenced your journey?

Nora: Immensely! They’ve always believed in me, even when I had my doubts. They’ve supported me in any way they could, and their faith in my talent has been a driving force. And of course, the added protection from your sunscreen has been a blessing, especially for a redhead like me!

Naelucare: We’re always here to support. Your travels have taken you to many international kite hotspots. Do you have a favorite?

Nora: Each place has its charm, but Cape Town holds a special place in my heart. My first trip there in 2019 was a game-changer. I participated in the “A Queen Is Born” competition, which kind of set things in motion towards a professional career.

Naelucare: Speaking of which, congratulations on your 2nd place at the Big Air Kite League in Cape Town and your recent stint at the GKA Big Air Kitesurfing World Tour. How did these experiences shape you?

Nora: Thank you! The 2nd place win was a dream come true, and participating in the GKA Big Air Kitesurfing World Tour was surreal. Both experiences gave me confidence and solidified my belief that I belong at the top level of this sport.

Naelucare: If you could give advice to someone starting in kitesurfing or any other passion, what would it be?

Nora: I’d say, follow your heart sooner rather than later. I wish I had pursued a professional kite career earlier and adopted a more confident mindset. So, believe in yourself, be brave, and chase your dreams.

Naelucare: Such inspiring words! Nora, it’s been a pleasure speaking with you. We’ll be cheering you on as you continue to soar high. Best of luck in all your future endeavors!

Nora: Thanks so much! Here’s to riding the winds and catching the next big wave.

Der Beitrag Rising High: An Exclusive Interview with Nora, The Big Air Kitesurfing Sensation erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

NÆ|LU: Welcome, Franziska Herrmann (36), independent trainer, yoga teacher, and psychologist. You seem to have an impressive and diverse background, can you tell us a little bit more about yourself and your journey into yoga?

Franziska: Thank you for having me! Indeed, my journey started back in 2008, when I studied abroad in India. It was there that I had the chance to explore various types of yoga and immerse myself in different cultures. After months of travel, I found myself in the birthplace of yoga.

NÆ|LU: That sounds amazing. What drew you to yoga specifically?

Franziska: I was particularly drawn to the asana practice, the physical aspect of yoga. I initially gravitated towards more dynamic types of yoga, but eventually, I found a love for the quieter, slower forms as well. Yoga is so fascinating to me because it’s about the philosophy as much as the physical practice. Even if you don’t believe in its philosophy, it still has an impact. Yoga encourages movement, but doesn’t force it. It always presents a path, but you don’t have to take it. It’s accessible to everyone, regardless of body type or location. I love that it doesn’t exclude anyone.

NÆ|LU: I understand you’re also a trained fitness trainer and nutritionist. How does that integrate with your yoga practice?

Franziska: It allows me to approach wellbeing and health holistically. Knowing various aspects of fitness and nutrition helps me better serve my students. My yoga journey naturally led me to complete my teacher training in Hatha and Vinyasa yoga.

NÆ|LU: How do you feel about chanting, which is often associated with yoga?

Franziska: It felt strange at the beginning, but now it feels natural and comforting. Chanting, like the rest of yoga, is a personal choice. It enhances the spiritual side of the practice, but it’s not a requirement.

NÆ|LU: It seems like you have a lot going on. How do you manage your professional life?

Franziska: I’ve been living on the island of Sylt for the past year, where I work as both a psychologist and a trainer. I enjoy having a physical job, it’s quite a balance. You can often find me in Hörnum, where I offer yoga classes. Teaching yoga on the beach without a mat, smelling the salt in the air, feeling the sand… it’s like confetti in your face (laughes).

NÆ|LU: You also offer SUP yoga on the North Sea. Can you tell us a bit more about that?

Franziska: SUP yoga, or stand-up paddleboard yoga, is a great way to challenge your balance and stability. Being on the water offers a new perspective, and the gentle water under the board can be calming. If your mind wanders, you might fall off! It’s a great practice to learn to focus and accept things as they are.

NÆ|LU: As a breast cancer survivor, how has this experience influenced your perspective on health and your daily practices?

Franziska: As a cancer survivor, I have to be extra cautious. The risk of developing other types of cancer is increased, so I feel safest when I’m active and taking care of my health. This also includes a strong focus on skin protection, especially given how much I love being outdoors. I was thrilled to discover NÆ|LU, which provides the perfect sunscreen for my lifestyle. Teaching yoga and staying active outdoors brings me joy. It feels like a gift to share this with others. Yoga has been a calming force in my life, it’s a home within me, and I find it a blessing to share this joy with others.

NÆ|LU: Lastly, if you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Franziska: I would tell my younger self to be patient and kind to herself. We often forget to show compassion towards ourselves, but it’s such an essential part of our overall well-being.

NÆ|LU: Such profound advice, Franziska. Your journey and insights are truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing with us today. For anyone inspired by Franziska’s journey and wishing to embark on a transformative yoga journey with her, you can book a lesson through her website and get in touch directly. Visit https://beachyogasylt.de to learn more.

Der Beitrag Conversations with Yoga Teacher and Psychologist, Franziska Herrmann erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

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NÆ | LU: Hi Lisa, it’s great to have you with us. Can you tell us how you first got involved in triathlon?

Lisa: Hi! Thank you for having me. I remember the first time I watched an Ironman race in Klagenfurt ten years ago. I was on the sidelines and I thought to myself, “I can do this too.” So I borrowed a bike, hired a coach and began training, often indoors during the winter. Six months later, in May 2012, I signed up for my first triathlon.

NÆ | LU: You had a significant milestone in 2023 with your middle-distance race at Ironman 70.3 Zell am See. Can you tell us about that experience?

Lisa Maria: Oh, absolutely! Getting state champion in the middle-distance race at Ironman 70.3 Zell am See was an incredible experience for me. The race was challenging, but I was determined to give it my all. The atmosphere and support from the crowd were electrifying, and I felt a surge of energy as I crossed the finish line. It was a moment of pure joy and accomplishment, knowing that all my hard work and dedication had paid off. Standing on that podium, with the cheers and applause surrounding me, was a dream come true. It was a defining moment in my triathlon journey, and it has motivated me to continue pushing myself and reaching for even greater heights.

NÆ | LU: And you’ve had quite the journey since then. Can you tell us about your transition from amateur to professional?

Lisa: Yes, it was quite a transition. I started seeing success in my age group fairly quickly, and by 2016 I had earned my professional license. But it was tough. I had to juggle my 8-hour job and training afterwards. I worked as a fitness trainer and triathlon coach, so the workload was quite intense. But last year, I finally managed to go full professional and could focus solely on my training.

NÆ | LU: What would you say has been your biggest achievement so far?

Lisa: The Ironman in Zell am See last year was my biggest achievement. It’s the race with the highest visibility and impact. Although I enjoy Middle Distance races, the Ironman is a different beast and to have succeeded in it gives me a lot of pride.

NÆ | LU: Can you tell us a bit about your most recent race?

Lisa: My last Ironman was in Italy, and I was proud because I wasn’t as tired as before. My recovery time is getting shorter and shorter, which is a great improvement. In fact, after my last triathlon, I was able to live a somewhat normal life – I even went out for ice cream with my mum instead of having to endure the pain as in the years before.

NÆ | LU: If you could give any advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Lisa: I’d probably tell my younger self to start swim training earlier. But other than that, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am very grateful for having the chance to do what I love in this life.

NÆ | LU: That’s inspiring, Lisa. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

Lisa: Thank you for having me!

Der Beitrag Lisa- Maria Dornauer – Rising Star of Triathlon erschien zuerst auf Naelucare.

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