Wellness Checkup #2

We sat down with Max Rodman, co-founder of mvmt.studio (@mvmtstudio_), to chat about wellness—what it actually means in real life, what’s working for him right now, and the small habits that make the biggest difference. He shares the routines he doesn’t skip, the way he thinks about energy, and a few simple go-tos that keep him feeling good day to day.

What does “wellness” actually mean to you (not the internet definition)?
To me wellness means feeling good in my body — light and strong, and loose. Feeling balanced in my life — work and play are aligned, my relationships are nurtured, I’m having lots of fun and also finding time to be at peace.

What’s one thing you do that always makes you feel better?
Movement and cookies.

What are you currently trying to optimize: energy, mood, skin, sleep, strength, digestion, stress?
Sleep, energy, and stress. Sleep is the foundation of it all. Energy is the guiding principle of my life — what gives it to me and what takes it away. And stress, though I do suffer from it, is the worst killer of all.

When did you first start caring about wellness—and what triggered it?
When I was 13. I was overweight as a child and I picked up a copy of Men’s Health magazine. I followed some advice and I understood I could impact my feeling of wellness in my body. It was incredibly empowering. 24 years later, I have the same wonder and curiosity… but now I think about the potential for impact as spanning mind, body, emotion, and spirit.

What’s your non-negotiable habit, even when you travel or get busy?
Movement.

What’s the most underrated nutrition habit people ignore?
Eat real food, balance your macros, eat happy.

What’s your go-to meal when you want something that feels like a treat but still supports you?
Chicken and rice.

What’s your favorite Aura product / go-to Aura order?
Overnight oats with coconut cream foam on top.

What’s one song that can always put you in a good mood?
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” — Tears for Fears.

What’s a small change that produced a surprisingly big result?
Follow the energy, don’t fight it.

Coffee or matcha?
Coffee.

Morning person or night owl?
Morning.

Sweet or savory?
SWEET AND SAVORY.

Favorite supplement?
L-theanine for relaxation.

What’s the main rule you live by?
Follow what gives you energy. Cut out the stuff that takes it away.