Irina Haller: on Horses, High Fashion, And Building a Life That Move With Purpose

Namita Nayyar:

How has your approach to fitness evolved since retiring from competitive dressage? Have you faced new physical challenges in modeling?

Irina Haller:

Since retiring from competitive dressage, my approach to fitness has certainly evolved, but many core principles have remained the same. Interestingly, dressage and modeling share more similarities than one might expect — both demand elegance, strong body control, and the ability to create an effortless appearance, even when the movements or poses are incredibly challenging. In modeling, there is the added complexity that not every outfit allows for full freedom of movement, which requires a great deal of flexibility and spontaneity. You must constantly adapt and find creative ways to highlight the outfit’s character while maintaining poise and expression. My background in dressage has given me a deep understanding of posture, balance, and presence, which continue to serve me well in my modeling career.

Namita Nayyar:

What does a day of eating look like for you? Are there specific foods or meal philosophies (e.g., plant-based, macro-tracking) you prioritize?

Irina Haller:

Throughout the years, I have explored various approaches to nutrition, always refining my habits to embrace what truly supports my body and lifestyle in the most sustainable way. Today, my diet is elegantly simple and centered around purity and quality. I prioritize fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, complemented by lean sources of protein. Often, I choose to eat entirely vegetarian or even fully plant-based for days at a time. I have consciously eliminated refined sugars, dairy, white flour products, pasta, rice, alcohol, and carbonated beverages from my routine. For me, nourishing my body with the finest, least processed foods is not just a philosophy — it is a way of honoring my health, my vitality, and the standards I set for myself both personally and professionally.

Namita Nayyar:

How do you tailor your diet to support both high-energy modeling demands and mental sharpness for real estate?

Irina Haller:

To meet the high-energy demands of modeling — which often involves frequent travel — and the mental sharpness required for real estate, I focus on staying well-nourished and hydrated. Especially on busy days, I have to remind myself to eat regularly, as I tend to get so absorbed in work that I forget until my energy dips. To keep my levels steady, I rely on simple, healthy snacks like a small handful of almonds. I also find coconut water incredibly helpful for maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance, especially when I’m on the go.

Namita Nayyar:

Do you follow a strict regimen, or allow flexibility? What’s your go-to “cheat meal”?

Irina Haller:

My approach to nutrition is rooted in discipline — not as a restriction, but as a quiet devotion to my craft and well-being. I don’t follow the notion of “cheat meals,” as each day is a step toward the next opportunity, the next moment in front of the camera. Instead, I find indulgence in refinement: in the pure pleasure of foods that nourish and inspire.

Japanese cuisine holds a special place in my heart, and black cod miso is my ultimate favorite — a dish so delicate, so rich in flavor, it feels like a celebration of balance itself. To me, true luxury is not excess, but the art of choosing with intention.

Namita Nayyar:

Are there supplements, hydration practices, or recovery techniques you swear by?

Irina Haller:

I believe in simplicity elevated to an art form — even when it comes to supplementation. A small, curated selection accompanies me daily: Vitamin C for its timeless strength, magnesium for balance and calm, and collagen to nourish from within. Yet true recovery, for me, is found beyond capsules and powders. It is a ritual — a moment of devotion to my own well-being.

Every two weeks, without fail, I visit Carmen, my trusted therapist, for a Brazilian lymphatic drainage treatment. It is far more than a beauty practice; it is a fusion of wellness, grace, and effectiveness — a sanctuary where body and soul are renewed with every touch. In a life that moves at full speed, these moments of care are my quiet luxuries. And sometimes, the simplest things hold the greatest power — even a warm cup of peppermint tea can be a true beauty secret, calming the body, clearing the mind, and nurturing from within.

Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.