Portrait of Alya Rohali Admits Her Eldest Daughter Once Experienced Body Image Issues, Now a Marathon Runner

"Yes, it’s just typical teenage behavior, at that time she was around 17 years old, and maybe many teenagers feel pressured by their peers, and with what, you know, the body image that society portrays, which is ingrained in their minds that they should look like this or that," said Alya when met in the area of Captain Tendean Street, Mampang, South Jakarta.

Alya did not expect that the issue would have a significant impact on her child's mental health. However, she is grateful that Namira was able to recognize her condition and seek professional help independently.   "But fortunately, she felt it herself, that this seems like a problem for me, I want to see a psychologist, and she took that initiative on her own, so she talked to the psychologist, and just changed her mindset," she continued.

The recovery process for Namira was carried out without the consumption of medication. Alya explained that her child prefers to balance a healthy diet with disciplined exercise.   "No, no, that's it, yes that's actually a mindset, you know, it's really a mindset, there are no medications at all, it's not to that extent," said Alya.

The habit of exercising has led Namira to discover a healthier lifestyle. In fact, it was from this exercise habit that she began to pursue running, eventually becoming actively involved in various marathon events.   "Well, in the end, now she actually, that's what became the beginning of her marathon running, so she's healthier now," said Alya.

As a mother, Alya did not stand idly by. She accompanied Namira in her transition to a healthy life. Alya also set an example by inviting her child to run together regularly since the age of 16.

"Finally with Ajani, what sport should I do, mom, something like that, recommended sports that can be serious and disciplined, well, let’s just run with mom, in the end, he followed along, I've been running since I was about 16 years old," he said.

Now, Namira is known as a much fitter and more confident person. Her experience has also become a valuable lesson for Alya in accompanying the growth and development of other children.