Arianny Celeste: Grace, Strength and the Power of Motherhood

Arianny Celeste may be best known for her longtime role as a UFC ring girl, but these days, her most important titles are rooted in wellness and motherhood. After decades in a high-energy, image-driven industry, she’s embracing a more intentional pace, prioritizing mental well-being, mindful movement, and time at home with her son. I sat down with Arianny to find out how her definition of health has evolved and the simple practices that keep her grounded.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: Tell me a bit about you as a child. Were you into sports?

ARIANNY CELESTE: Yes, I was introduced to sports at a very young age. I was very active in high school; I did track and cheerleading. I also wanted to do softball, but it conflicted with cheer, so I chose cheerleading. I started gymnastics when I was around eight or nine, and that really catapulted me into the competitive cheer space. That’s where I learned discipline, going to long practices with my team, and it really showed me a love for my body and for working out. That’s where everything began. I continued cheering all the way through my sophomore year of college.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: What led you to the UFC?

ARIANNY CELESTE: They held an audition… I gave it a shot, and I got hired. That completely changed my life. I had the choice to put school on hold and go after something very different, but I knew it had the potential to be amazing, and it was. I’ve traveled the world with the UFC, and it helped me build my own brand and online presence. It really became my platform.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: How did your career develop after the UFC?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I was introduced to TV hosting. When I was living in L.A., I went to acting and hosting school and realized I really loved hosting. It came naturally to me, being on camera, explaining things, and just being myself. After about five years of auditioning, I finally landed a TV role on Overhaulin’ on the Discovery Channel. It was all about restoring classic cars and surprising people at the end; it was such a fun experience. Now, I’m thinking about getting back into it. A friend recently approached me about doing a podcast with a television component focused on lifestyle in Las Vegas, and we’re planning to start working on that.  I’m really excited to be back in front of the camera.

I still work with the UFC once a month. I do VIP relations, which means hosting VIP guests, making sure they’re taken care of, helping them find food and drinks, and coordinating photo opportunities with fighters or me. I’ve been with the UFC for almost 20 years now.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: How has your definition of wellness evolved over the years?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I’ve always loved intense workouts, but this year really shifted things for me. I went through a lot in 2025, things that could have mentally broken me, so I needed something that would support my nervous system. I had always done more intense yoga, like flow classes with lots of chaturangas, which can be very strenuous. But I fell in love with slower practices like Cadillac Pilates and Yin Yoga.

Yin Yoga, especially, might have saved my life. It became such a powerful stress release. There were times during class when I would literally burst into tears from releasing so much stored emotion. I’ve learned to embrace slowing down. After 20 years of constant travel and movement, I’m really enjoying being grounded, spending time at home with my son, and being more present.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: How do you prioritize your mental well-being?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I work with a life coach about once a month, which really helps. In the mornings, I start my day with my Bible app and prayer; it’s like my meditation before the day begins. I don’t check my phone or emails until around 9:30 am, after I’ve taken my son to school and had time to ground myself. That quiet time is really important to me.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: Since having your son, how has your wellness routine changed?

ARIANNY CELESTE: It’s definitely more challenging because my focus is on him, but we’ve found a rhythm. He knows I need about 15 minutes in the morning to read, and we both enjoy a daily routine which includes stretching together, telling each other what we are grateful for, and thanking God. It’s really special.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: What are the non-negotiables in your wellness routine?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I take peptides for overall health. Right now I’m doing a Glow Stack that includes NAD+ and GHK-CU. I also take at least five grams of creatine daily and make sure I stay hydrated. I use wellness shots with matcha, lion’s mane, magnesium, and L-theanine. It’s a great alternative to coffee in the afternoon when I need a boost.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: What does aging well mean to you?

ARIANNY CELESTE: Aging well is about how you feel, not the number. I just turned 40, and I feel amazing. I’m doing things like hanging upside down in Cadillac Pilates, which reminds me of my gymnastics and cheerleading days. It feels so rejuvenating. To me, aging well means feeling strong, energized, and capable.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: You’ve been in a very image-driven industry. How do you stay grounded and true to yourself?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I’ve learned to lean on my people, my parents, my sisters, and my close friends. There was a time when I tried to carry everything on my own, but now I understand the importance of asking for help.

Being in the spotlight at a young age was tough. I used to look myself up online, and sometimes what I saw would really affect me. But I’ve learned that everyone will have an opinion, and what matters most is how you see yourself.

I used to strive for perfection, but now I genuinely like how I look and feel, and that’s enough.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: You have a demanding schedule. How do you balance work with rest and recovery?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I focus on realistic goals. Instead of having a long list of things to accomplish, I narrow it down to two main priorities. I also give myself timelines. That way, I’m not overwhelmed, and I actually complete what I set out to do. It’s much better for my mental health.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: What are your favorite wellness spots in Las Vegas?

ARIANNY CELESTE: I love Raeya Wellness, it’s such a beautiful, private space for women. You can spend hours there with things like red light therapy, oxygen therapy, sauna, and cold plunge. It feels like a true escape.

Sunday Pilates is another favorite. The studio is gorgeous; it really elevates the experience.

Kintsugi Yoga at The Bend is also amazing. The space is so serene, with open windows and mountain views, it doesn’t even feel like Vegas.

I also do BrainTap and PEMF at Desert Moon Wellness. Last year, I fractured my finger, and the hyperbaric chamber really helped speed up my healing.

STEPHANIE SHEHAN: What advice would you give to other moms trying to prioritize wellness?

ARIANNY CELESTE: Give yourself 10 to 15 minutes in the morning. I know how busy it can be, especially with kids, but that time makes such a difference. Kids learn by example; if they see you taking care of yourself, they’ll want to do the same. It helps create a calmer, more intentional start to the day for everyone.

Follow Arianny on Instagram @ariannyceleste