Passion, purpose, and wellness are the driving forces behind everything Verlena Mooney-Newell does. The founder of Fit to Live 365, she embodies the philosophy that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in health, happiness, and meaningful connection. With a deep commitment to community, art, and holistic wellness, she has created a lifestyle—and a legacy—that inspires others to embrace the fullness of life. Whether she’s promoting fitness and mindfulness, collecting culturally rich artwork, or supporting philanthropic causes, her message is clear: live intentionally, love deeply, and take care of your whole self—mind, body, and spirit.
How has your passion for fitness and wellness shaped your philanthropic efforts? Mooney-Newell. The practice of being fit and staying well is a choice. It takes work, commitment, mindfulness, intentionality, and self-love. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that self-love is also about giving back. The philanthropic organizations I’m part of and value most are those where I see myself from a holistic perspective. My practice of fitness, nutrition, and wellness allows my mind to be free and my spirit to grow with kindness, love, and compassion—qualities that naturally fuel a deeper desire to help others.
How do you integrate the philosophy of “health as wealth” into the lives of your clients and the community at large?
Mooney-Newell. It’s hard to talk about health without talking about healthcare—and in our country, access to healthcare is not equal for all. The Fit to Live 365 philosophy is centered on making good choices and controlling the controllable while prioritizing fitness and wellness. I encourage starting with a positive mindset. Surround yourself with positive people, meditate, pray, find your purpose, and embrace your truth. All of these can shift how you see your life.
Choosing what you put in your body is just as powerful. If you don’t know how to cook, explore recipe ideas online or take a class. Cooking with friends can make it fun and social. For a stronger you, use the tools available: take walks, ride a bike, grocery shop in person, or do home workouts with simple equipment. If you have access to a gym—go! Try aerobics, yoga, swimming, weights, or even gardening to maintain strength and balance.
True wealth isn’t just financial—it’s emotional and psychological. A happier, more satisfied life manifests a healthier and wealthier you. Happiness reduces stress, improves focus, and boosts energy. Even posture and how we carry ourselves improves. These are reminders to my mature peers: choose joy, embrace peace, and enjoy the simple pleasures now. Here’s how health and wealth are interconnected:
- Healthy individuals are more likely to have friends, be employed, and build wealth.
- Good health reduces medical costs and leads to greater happiness.
- A longer lifespan creates more opportunities to earn and grow wealth.
While money doesn’t buy health, health and wealth are intertwined—each influences the other.
What inspired you to become an art collector, and what stories do you seek to preserve through the pieces you acquire?
Mooney-Newell. I didn’t set out to become an art collector—I was simply drawn to the stories art told me. Art speaks uniquely to each person, and the more I connected with it, the more I wanted to listen. That curiosity led me to meet artists, learn their stories, and understand the purpose behind their creations. Art has always been special to me. It’s a mirror of culture, history, and individual expression. While I admire all kinds of art, I’m especially passionate about Black and African art because it reflects my heritage—our pride, struggles, purpose, and dreams. Collecting it allows me to preserve our fight for justice and freedom while honoring the powerful narratives that shape who we are.
Do you see parallels between the discipline of maintaining physical health and the dedication required to curate meaningful artwork?
Mooney-Newell. Absolutely. But first, fitness to me is about strength, confidence, definition, euphoria, dreaming, and feeling accomplished. Much like fitness, art aligns with these themes. It’s physical, expressive, and bold—telling stories without words through form, color, and movement. Just like a fitness enthusiast preparing for a show or competition, an artist unveils a masterpiece with emotion and pride.
Art, like my life, is deeply tied to history and motion. Artists use their work to spark change—and I hope to do the same by encouraging people, especially those in my age group, to move, to stay well, and to embrace life. We’re not winding down—we’re stepping into a new chapter, and our health and happiness are still worth fighting for.
What causes are closest to your heart, and how do you strategically support them through your time, resources, or advocacy?
Mooney-Newell. I’m passionate about philanthropic organizations that create meaningful, positive change in people’s lives—especially those rooted in community and spirit.
Luxury is often associated with material wealth. How do you define luxury in your own life?
Mooney-Newell. Luxury, for me, is wellness. It’s the simple pleasures: cooking a beautiful meal for family, relaxing in a sauna after a tough workout, soaking in a hot tub, sitting on the veranda with a glass of wine, getting a massage, taking long walks, and watching my dog run joyfully through the grass. These moments are the luxuries that free your mind and heal your heart and soul.
What role does art play in wellness, mentally and emotionally? Has your appreciation for art enhanced your approach to fitness and holistic health?
Mooney-Newell. Art is a powerful healing tool—therapists use it to help patients process and express emotions. I’ve always felt how certain pieces uplift my mood, shift my mindset, and invite reflection. Monet’s “Impressionism” style, with its bright colors and light, is a perfect example. Art has a way of encouraging peace, clarity, and joy—and that energy naturally feeds into a more holistic approach to wellness.
What has been the most rewarding part of building Fit to Live 365?
Mooney-Newell. The most rewarding part has been giving back—empowering women like me, especially mature women, to age gracefully, live fully, and embrace fitness and wellness every day. In the last five years, I’ve realized how fitness shifted from something I did for physical enjoyment to something essential for my mental health.
Mature women juggle so much—careers, family, relationships, and caregiving.
What legacy do you hope to leave through your work?
Mooney-Newell. My legacy is to show women—especially mature women—that self-care is vital, and that fitness and mindfulness are not luxuries, but necessities.
What advice would you give to those looking to follow their passions about creating a lifestyle that is both meaningful and sustainable?
Mooney-Newell. Start by asking yourself: What is your purpose for pursuing this passion? Is it a short-term or long-term goal? Have you tried before? What’s different now? Create a plan and set realistic goals. Don’t overwhelm yourself with lofty expectations. Consider hiring a coach, and share your dreams with people you trust. And remember—you can’t be everything to everyone. Stay committed, keep your passion alive, and weave it into your everyday life.
