Reneé wears Indian Summer Boatneck one piece suit.

Reneé Lodens doesn't just travel and shop, she is the Founder and Managing Director of Travelshopa. She has taken two of her most loved activities into a successful start-up, Travelshopa which helps people around the world discover more on the best local shopping haunts, especially when they're on holidays.

She is also a mother of two and an avid Yogi. We are delighted to have Reneé as K.BLU Real Women series this month to share her life tips and tricks. 

What is your definition of success?
There have been many different forms of success in my life – big and small, professional and personal – and hopefully many more to come. Each time I have encountered success I have set clear goals, tapped into my passion and defined my purpose; and then tenacity and resilience have kicked in. When all those things come together, there is success.

If you weren’t working in the job you are in now, what would you be doing instead?
I have worked across a number of industries, always in business development and marketing, but I have enjoyed the retail/fashion industry the most. It’s any exciting industry that is currently going through fundamental changes. I’d like to think I would remain in this industry for a long time.

What is your ideal holiday?
Holidays have taken a new form since having Travelshopa and two children. It’s impossible to completely step away from either. I have accepted that a holiday is any time with reduced deadlines and responsibilities. Gone are the days of sitting on a beach all day, uninterrupted.

What or who are your style influences?
My style is influenced by many, but mostly those who are great storytellers. Approaching 40 I noticed that my personal style started taking a stronger standpoint and became truer to who I am. Neutral colours, timeless accessories, classic stripes, navy blazers, white shirts, and denim are what I prefer. Designers like Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch and Mark D Sikes are the masters of a timeless aesthetic.

What three values are most important to you?
Honesty, friendliness and tenacity.

Living in a sunny climate, what are some of your must-haves when it comes to your skin?
I don’t think my regime is anything ground breaking. Sunscreen has become a key part of my routine – face and body. A tinted moisturiser for the face is most conducive in a tropical climate – I am currently using one by Laura Mercier and I love it. A sun hat and bottle of water are also never too far away.

What is one thing on your bucket list?
Just one more trip to Paris, please.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
Running between rugby practice, ballet classes and the business, and loving it.

Is there a song lyric or a quote you live by?
Never ever give up.

Reneé wears Turquoise Porcelain Sports bra and tights with Turquoise Porcelain sports bag.

How are you able to juggle work and yoga workout?
With a business and two small children my yoga practice has suffered a little. I used to be a 5-6 sessions a week. Now I squeeze in two sessions a week and some home (or desk and sometimes car) meditation. Whatever works, right?!

When did you start doing yoga?
Sadly the sudden death of my father kick started my yoga practice. I was really into Pilates at the time but it was not enough to process the immense grief and pain I was suffering – physically, mentally and spiritually. One day I just tried a yoga class (which I had been resisting for years) and it changed my life. That was just over 11 years ago.

How has yoga changed your lifestyle/improved your lifestyle?
Yoga is my go to. I am a better person when I have a regular practice. I am healthier. I sleep better. I have less physical pain. I deal with stress. I feel lighter. It has always been more than physical exercise for me.

Any yoga poses that are meaningful to you? Or which poses are those you took a long time to achieve?
I first started practicing Ashtanga. I am a creature of habit so learning the series was a great way to build my practice. Once I was stronger – mentally and physically – I added some Iyangar and then moved onto Hatha here in Singapore.

Favourite pose?
Headstand is the most restorative for me. Everyone needs to see the world from a different perspective from time to time.

What do you look for in a yoga wear?
Comfort, durability and style.

Any tips for beginners?
Just start. Find an instructor who you connect with. No practice will ever be the same.

Do share with us some of your favourite healthy meals (be it homemade or purchased outside)
I eat a lot of salad and fresh fruit. I have the exactly same salad for lunch every single day. It’s one less decision to make.