Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray admitted she was never much of a runner. But earlier this year, she found herself lacing up with friends and discovering the joy of moving her body outdoors.
“I love the feeling of being outside, moving my body, and being part of a community. It’s fun and it doesn’t have to be competitive,” the beauty queen said.
Known for her poise onstage and her advocacy work in education, women’s rights, and mental health, Catriona has taken on a new mission of promoting healthier and more mindful living.
At “LOHAS Days 2025,” held Sept. 12 to Sept. 14 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig City, Catriona was formally introduced as the official Taiwan LOHAS advocate, a role she described as both personal and empowering.
“I’ve always admired Taiwan for being a leader in championing better health and wellness. Seeing LOHAS being shared here in the Philippines is an empowering reminder that living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle is something we can all embrace,” Catriona shared.
During the event, she stressed that wellness doesn’t have to come from grand gestures or expensive habits.
“A healthy, sustainable, and mindful way of living is achievable for everyone if we just find ways to integrate it into our everyday routines. It doesn’t need to cost anything. Sometimes it’s as simple as bringing a water tumbler, going for a run with friends, or taking time to move your body,” she continued.
She recounted how her approach to fitness has evolved, confessing that she only discovered running not long ago. Encouraged by friends, she began spending more time outdoors and found a version of wellness rooted in movement, companionship, and enjoyment rather than pressure. For her, it was proof that small, steady habits can make healthier living accessible without drastic changes.
Her message tied in with LOHAS Days, a three-day event by Taiwan Excellence that put the spotlight on health and sustainability. The festival featured free fitness classes, wellness talks, and exhibits from 17 Taiwanese brands. Among the highlights were the ATUNAS Green Fitness Series made from recycled materials, the BESV Folding e-Bike, and the JKFITNESS AeroWork Desk Treadmill, all designed to support healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.
By lending her voice to Taiwan’s LOHAS campaign, Gray said she hopes to inspire Filipinos to see wellness as something practical and inclusive.
“It’s about making conscious, small decisions that, when added together, create a big difference,” she stated.
