An Inside Look At Kayla Peterson’s Journey to Meaningful Living
When Kayla Peterson talks about wellness, it’s not just about exercise or green smoothies—though both are essential parts of her day. For her, wellness is an all-encompassing lifestyle philosophy shaped by love, kindness, meaningful impact, and, of course, a desire for adventure. From transformative experiences in Southeast Asia to launching her wellness platform, "Wake Up with Kayla," her life is a testament to embracing balance and fostering deep connections with the world around her.
“I realized true fulfillment doesn’t come from wealth or status,” Kayla explains. “During a volunteer project in Southeast Asia, I witnessed how people in these communities, with so little materially, had an abundance of joy and peace. That experience realigned my priorities and shaped the way I approach everything—from my personal relationships to my career.” Her outlook today is a fusion of meaningful adventures, inner peace, love, and making a positive impact.
It’s a journey that led her to create “Wake Up with Kayla”, a wellness platform aimed at inspiring people to find their own balance and embrace holistic self-care. For Kayla, the project is deeply personal. “In 2009, my father was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer,” she shares. “Watching his rapid decline was heartbreaking, but it ignited a fire in me to learn everything I could about health and the human body. Although I couldn’t save him, that experience fueled my desire to help others live healthier, fuller lives.” Through her platform, Kayla shares health tips, fitness routines, and self-care practices, but her real goal is to encourage progress, not perfection. "I hope people take away that wellness isn't about rigid routines but about listening to your body and making choices that nourish you holistically."
A significant part of Kayla’s philosophy is rooted in her love of travel and the unique wellness practices she’s discovered along the way. From exploring hot springs in Iceland to learning about the traditional diets of the Inuit people in Greenland, her travels are more than just adventures—they’re essential to her holistic well-being. "Iceland was a game changer," she says with a smile. “I spent hours hiking across glaciers and soaking in geothermal hot springs. It taught me the importance of slowing down and letting nature heal you. Greenland, on the other hand, taught me about resilience—how local communities stay connected to their roots, both culturally and nutritionally. These moments changed my understanding of wellness and how deeply it’s tied to our connection with the Earth.”
For Kayla, selecting destinations and brands to feature on her platform is a careful process that aligns with her values of wellness, sustainability, and authenticity. “I prioritize places with exceptional wellness programs, farm-to-table cuisine, and a commitment to sustainability. It’s important that these experiences are authentic and that they support local cultures and communities.” Her social media engagement with her audience also plays a crucial role in shaping her recommendations. “I love involving my followers through polls or Q&A sessions to understand what resonates with them. It keeps me connected and ensures that what I share truly aligns with their wellness journey.”
When it comes to her own routine, Kayla is just as intentional. Her daily schedule is a balance of fitness, self-care, and creativity, all structured to keep her centered amid the chaos of life. “My mornings start with sunrise breathwork and meditation,” she says, describing how those moments of mindfulness set a positive tone for the day. "Then I do a short workout—either cardio or strength training—and end with contrast therapy in the sauna and cold plunge to boost recovery and reduce inflammation." But it's not just about physical health for Kayla. She carves out time for journaling, creative outlets like painting, and social connections, often spending her evenings with loved ones. “Nurturing my relationships is crucial for my well-being. It’s all part of the balance. Wellness isn’t just about taking care of your body—it’s about nurturing your mind, emotions, and relationships, too.”
Kayla’s approach to wellness extends beyond her personal life. It’s about fostering kindness and creating a positive impact, something she’s passionate about in both small and large ways. Recently, while volunteering for the nonprofit “It’s Bigger Than Us” she saw firsthand the power of compassion. “During one event, a single mother came up to me, in tears, because the food we distributed meant her children wouldn’t go hungry that week. That moment reminded me that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a profound difference. It’s what motivates me to keep pushing for positive change.”
For Kayla, wellness isn’t a destination—it’s a journey of progress, mindfulness, and kindness. “The most rewarding feedback I’ve received was from a young mother struggling with postpartum depression. She started with just five minutes of meditation, as I suggested, and it transformed her life. These stories are what keep me going.” Her advice for those looking to start their own wellness journey? “Start small and be consistent. Maybe it’s drinking more water, practicing gratitude, or simply spending five minutes each day meditating. Every little step counts, and the ripple effect can be profound.”
As she looks to the future, Kayla is excited to continue growing “Wake Up with Kayla” and expanding its impact. Her vision is clear: to create a more sustainable, compassionate world where wellness is accessible to everyone. Whether through charity partnerships, collaborations with ethical brands, or leading retreats, she is committed to making wellness a global conversation—one that encourages people to live with intention and embrace a life of balance, adventure, and kindness.
“Ultimately, wellness is about finding what works for you, nourishing your body, and taking time to connect with what truly matters,” she says. “Life is unpredictable, but if we prioritize our well-being and spread kindness along the way, we can create a life that’s both fulfilling and impactful.”
