Mariska Hargitay, the star of Law & Order: SVU, is much more than the iconic character of Olivia Benson. Behind the scenes, she is a woman who juggles a demanding career, family life, and advocacy work. With such a packed schedule, one might wonder how she manages to stay grounded and maintain her wellness. Hargitay’s approach to managing stress and ensuring her well-being is as inspiring as her on-screen performances—centered on self-care, mindfulness, and a deep connection to what matters most.
Hargitay is no stranger to high-pressure environments. Playing a tough and empathetic detective on SVU for over two decades means embodying intense emotions and tackling hard-hitting subjects daily. Yet, she has consistently spoken about the importance of setting boundaries and knowing when to step back. “I have to be very vigilant about how I take care of myself,” she once shared in an interview. This mindset has allowed her to strike a balance between her work and personal life. For her, self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Central to Hargitay’s stress management is her commitment to physical wellness. She embraces a holistic approach to fitness, incorporating activities like Pilates, hiking, and yoga into her routine. Pilates, in particular, has been a transformative practice for Hargitay, helping her build strength and flexibility while also allowing her to tune into her body and mind. She’s known to say that working out is as much about mental clarity as it is about physical fitness. Exercise, for her, is a powerful tool not just for staying in shape but for releasing tension and refocusing.
Another cornerstone of her wellness regimen is mindfulness. Hargitay has openly shared how meditation and mindful breathing practices help her stay present, especially when life becomes overwhelming. This practice, rooted in the idea of living in the moment, allows her to disconnect from the chaos and find peace in stillness. She has often mentioned that even a few minutes of meditation can make a significant difference in her day. It is this practice that helps her reconnect with herself, stay grounded, and face each day with a renewed sense of purpose.
Hargitay also emphasizes the importance of sleep—a sometimes overlooked aspect of wellness. In a world where “hustle culture” is often glorified, she advocates for the restorative power of rest. As she balances her roles as an actress, a mother, and a philanthropist, she understands that quality sleep is essential to maintaining her energy and mood. It’s not uncommon for her to share the importance of winding down in the evening, whether it’s through a calming tea, a good book, or spending quality time with her family.
Her dedication to philanthropy and advocacy is another vital aspect of her well-being. Founding the Joyful Heart Foundation, which supports survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, has been both a passion project and a way for her to channel stress into meaningful action. By aligning her work with her values, Hargitay finds fulfillment that transcends the superficial trappings of Hollywood fame. Engaging in such purpose-driven work brings her joy and a sense of balance, reminding her of the greater picture beyond the entertainment industry.
However, perhaps the most profound way Mariska Hargitay manages stress is through her relationships. She treasures her family life with her husband, Peter Hermann, and their three children. She often credits them as her source of strength and happiness. For Hargitay, home is a sanctuary where laughter, love, and authenticity reign supreme. Time spent with her loved ones provides her with the emotional nourishment necessary to face the challenges of her career and advocacy work head-on.
In essence, Mariska Hargitay’s approach to managing stress and maintaining wellness is a harmonious blend of physical activity, mindfulness, purposeful work, rest, and love. It’s a testament to her belief in balance, her commitment to self-care, and her understanding that wellness is a continuous journey, not a destination. As she continues to inspire millions with her powerful performances and her advocacy, she also leads by example, showing us all that taking care of oneself is the first step toward taking care of the world.
