Astrid Palca stands as a shining example of how two seemingly opposite worlds—medicine and modeling—can beautifully intersect. As a mature model and a medical professional, Astrid balances both careers with grace, embodying strength, resilience, and flexibility. Her ability to thrive in these two demanding fields reflects not only her personal discipline but also a deep understanding of physical and mental health.
Incorporating Medical Knowledge into Modeling
At first glance, medicine and modeling may seem worlds apart. However, Astrid credits her medical background for helping her stay focused, healthy, and resilient in the fast-paced modeling industry. “For me, it’s important to stay physically and mentally strong,” she shares. With a packed schedule that requires her to switch between the two careers, Astrid highlights how crucial flexibility and strength are. “I enjoy the challenge,” she says, explaining that her medical knowledge plays a key role in keeping her balanced in hectic situations.
Empowering Women Over 50
Astrid started her modeling career in her late forties, defying societal expectations and challenging age stereotypes. Her advice to women over 50? “Just do it! Don’t hesitate, because your best time is now!” Astrid believes that mature women have much to offer, and she proudly embraces her age, encouraging others to do the same. “We’re more visible now, leading and representing in various industries. We’re no longer just ‘knitting grannies’—times have changed.” Astrid speaks with passion about how 50+ women, with their life experiences and wisdom, are like roses in full bloom, full of energy and life.
Astrid’s Approach to Self-Care
In the whirlwind world of fashion, self-care is essential. For Astrid, staying mentally and physically balanced is key to her success. Rather than getting caught up in fleeting trends, she takes breaks, walks in nature, and enjoys outdoor activities to stay grounded. “That’s my way to meditate and keep my mind fresh,” she shares. Astrid also focuses on fitness training and feeding her mind with books, which help her maintain a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle.
Fashion as a Form of Expression
For Astrid, fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a way of communicating who she is. “What I wear tells a story,” she says, emphasizing how mature women have honed their style over the years. Astrid values quality over quantity, with many of her favorite pieces lasting over 10 or even 20 years. She also believes that sustainability should be reflected in fashion campaigns by featuring women of all ages, noting that some brands have already begun embracing this by including models from various generations. “Beauty has no expiration date,” she states confidently, celebrating the rise of diversity in fashion.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success
One of the most rewarding challenges in Astrid’s life was how her medical career unexpectedly led her to modeling. A recruitment video for medical doctors, in which she featured, turned into a significant opportunity. After the video’s success, her colleagues joked that Hollywood would soon come calling. While Hollywood may not have knocked on her door, Astrid’s modeling career certainly took off. She soon found herself gracing the covers of magazines across the U.S., Europe, and even making it to the cover of Hollywood Magazine.
Balancing two careers hasn’t been easy, but Astrid draws a parallel between the two worlds. Both medicine and modeling, she says, require time to develop your raw qualities, much like polishing a diamond. Her persistence and discipline have paid off in both fields—whether completing a post-diploma study in medicine or attending a workshop by fashion icon Anna Wintour at a Vogue Germany event.
And Astrid’s journey is far from over. Soon, she will be attending the prestigious Coco Rocha Model Camp, continuing to challenge herself and grow in the modeling industry. “It’s true,” she reflects, “my best time is now!”
Astrid Palca’s story is one of resilience, passion, and the beauty of embracing life’s dualities. As she continues to succeed in both her medical and modeling careers, she serves as an inspiration to women everywhere—proof that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.
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