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WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH KATHERINE ORMEROD

This weeks #WellnessWednesday features Katherine Ormerod, when we first met I felt an instant connection with her because of her genuine interest in and support of women.

Editorial Director and Brand Consultant Katherine Ormerod is behind workworkwork.co, a digital destination for women to share their challenges and triumphs both in and out of the office. The site intends to add a dose of reality to the social media conversation and operate as an anti-perfectionism platform.

How would you describe your lifestyle?

Highly varied and fulfilling.

2. What’s your favourite food? Naughty or nice.

It’s always going to be naughty in the moment and nice on reflection!

3. Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

I do a lot of Reformer Pilates and hot yoga. Until recently I did a lot of cardio too— abs & ass, trampolining etc – but have calmed that down as Im trying to conceive. The focus is cortisol reducing not enhancing exercise for me at the moment.

4. How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

It’s never easy and it takes discipline. I have acupuncture twice a month and really try and take at least 3/5 lunch breaks — ideally taking a 40 minute walk without my phone. Over-scheduling is my real out-of-balance downfall, so it’s about being really strict about how much I put into my calendar and prioritizing things that really matter.

5. How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

I do a lot of night time meditation to help me sleep if my mind is spinning –I often wake up at 3am-4am and I find sleep meditation is the only way I can drop back off.

6. People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

I’m a huge fan of manifestation and am highly goal orientated. In fact, I’m trying to be more spontaneous and less fixed in my path. I have however, always believed that you can only manifest and focus on one thing at once — it cant be find a new boyfriend, get a promotion, buy a flat… You have to take your journey one step at a time and ensure all decisions you make go back to that one solitary goal instead of splitting your energy across multiple targets.

7. How do you unwind after a busy day?

I cook and iron. I know that sounds regressive, but I find doing domestic tasks very relaxing and just love being at home. I am out with work around three nights a week, so ironing in front of the TV or chopping veg is an amazing way for me to shut my brain down and just do repetitive actions.

8. It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

An early morning class then brunch with girlfriends. I’ll then come home for a rest — either a lazy nap or TV with my boyfriend. We might do some home improvement then we’ll mosey down to Notting Hill and meet friends for drinks and dinner. Sunday morning always starts with cinema at the Electric and a cinnamon bun from Fabrique. We’ll then head to Queen’ Park Farmer’s Market and get some fresh veg and flowers and invite friends over for a Sunday roast. Weekends are calm and open ended — if we’re not abroad or away with family, it’s all about relaxation.

9. What’s your top health tip for our readers?

To give yourself a break. I have been incredibly, incredibly productive at times of my life and held myself up to impossible standards. I think it is very easy to become competitively busy and you can always do more. I could post more on my site or pick up extra clients to make more money, but I choose to prioritize my free time and keep things on an even keel.

10. Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

accepting myself for my both my failures and success.

To keep up with the latest from Katherine follow her below:

Website

Instagram

September 13, 2017/0 Comments/by Alison

Healthy mind, Meditation, Wellness Wednesday, Yourself

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH BRENDAN COURTNEY

For this weeks #WellnessWednesday features Brendan Courtney, he is many things but primarily a dear friend with one of the biggest hearts I know.

As a Broadcaster, Fashion Designer, Writer & Entrepreneur his work has touched many lives in different ways. This year his authored doc for RTE1 “We need to talk about Dad” has shaken the government to change the law around care in the community. As well as a change maker he is one of my favourite designers and alongside Sonia Lennon they have just launched their new www.lennoncourtney.com collection in Dunnes Stores.

He is the editor at large for (online female lifestyle platform) frockadvisor. He was recently listed as “The most influential (fashion) journalist on Twitter” by the Murray Index.

We first met back in “The Clothes Show” days where he was responsible for the return of the BBC Show which he produced and presented for a number years.

However today I want to know how he balances it all so I asked him to do my #WellnessWednesday quiz and heres what we found out:

How would you describe your lifestyle?

Reasonably healthy! I try and be good to myself but do slip into naughty treats occasionally.

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

Thai curry ! Or anything Italian.

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

Yes, I was actually a fitness instructor in a previous life so I run, do yoga and indulge myself with a personal trainer twice a week.

How do you find balance in your day-to- day life?

I try to meditate as often as I can, and consider everything I put in my mouth.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate?

Yes, I found meditation 20 years ago when I suffered from anxiety and panic attacks. A brilliant Ozzie women called Pauline McKinnon wrote “In stillness conquer fear” – that became my mantra.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Yes of course, every 3 months and revise them and do them every day.

How do you unwind after a busy day?

A walk with the dog, a movie or a glass of red wine (opey!).

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

We do Animal Flow every Sunday (It’s like intense YOGA), I see my family and maybe meet friends for dinner, or we go away!

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Well being feels better then anything, so learn that treating your self is not chocolate or fags, but putting nice stuff in your body, change your mind set and the worlds your oyster!

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

…being happy and that happiness comes from within, no one thing or person can make you happy, just you.

To keep up with the latest from Brendan follow him below:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

August 30, 2017/0 Comments/by Alison

Inspiration / Motivation, Minding Mum, Parenting, Wellness Wednesday

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH MELISSA WOOD-TEPPERBERG

For this weeks #WellnessWednesday I’m super excited to be chatting to a very inspirational lady. I know Melissa Wood-Tepperberg from my time in New York and she is a truly beautiful soul.

She lives with authenticity and presence and if you follow her on social media you can’t help but be inspired. Her stories always leave you invigorated and motivated to live better and take some space for yourself. Here she tells us how she unwinds and copes with daily stress by meditating.

How would you describe your lifestyle?

I have a very fun and healthy approach to everything I do. Whether it’s making food in the kitchen, working out, taking Benjamin to a class or working in the office. Living by my 3 M’s (meditation, mindful eating and movement) has allowed me to cultivate habits that no matter where I am or what I am doing; I find balance incorporating these three things.

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

My ultimate favorite food is definitely avocado toast on manna bread with sea salt, nutritional yeast with squeezed lemon. I was told for years to stay away from carbs because they make you fat and this way of thinking created a laundry list of issues for me. Now, I eat this almost every day and tell myself that I am nourishing my body and my soul and I’m living my best life- so don’t always believe what everyone tells you. Carbs are not all created equal. At the end of the day you have to find what works for you.

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

I work out on average 4-5 days per week and now that I’m sharing all of my workouts on the Fitner app this has become an even bigger part of my routine. Even 15 minutes of movement a day can change your entire mood. I’ve created 15-45 minute flows, so no matter what you can get something in.

How do you find balance in your day-to- day life?

I read my daily lesson in A Course In Miracles and meditating everyday morning for 20. This has changed me as a person. I look at both my life and myself in such a positive light now.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate?

Meditation all the way.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

I don’t necessarily write down goals and intentions. At the end of every meditation I close with a prayer to help connect me to my highest power and open up the energy in every area of my life, “What would you have me do? Where would you have me go? What would you have me say? To whom?”

How do you unwind after a busy day?

I take Benjamin to the park and go for a walk almost every night after work. No matter how much stress I have from the day, it’s all washed away as soon as I’m with him. He brings a whole new meaning to happiness.

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

I take a yoga or Pilates class, go to the park with my family, have dinner with my husband, go out dancing with my girls and let Benjamin stay up late one of the nights and watch television in my bed.

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

My top health tip for everyone would be to find stillness in your day by creating some space to sit with yourself and connect to the truth of who you really are and what matters most to you.

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

…Loving and accepting myself no matter what the situation is.

Melissa shares great easy to follow daily workouts on the fitner app

Check out her new website and you can follow her on

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

**Melissa Wood-Tepperberg is a mom, certified health and wellness coach, meditator, Yoga and Pilates teacher and thriving on a plant-based diet. Her three pillars of focus are: meditation, mindful eating, and movement. Melissa Wood Health is a platform for sharing all of the wellness tips that she swears by – from food, fitness, beauty, fashion, baby and overall lifestyle – to help achieve your best self.

June 7, 2017/0 Comments/by Alison

Wellness Wednesday

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH CELEBRITY STYLIST JEFF MEHMET

For this weeks #wellnesswednesday I’m chatting to Jeff Mehmet who is a whirlwind of smiles and energy when you meet him.

Based in London Jeff works as a Stylist and Brand Consultant for clients worldwide. With a strong background in editorial, celebrity styling and design development he has a wide variety of experience and an outstanding portfolio.

In fact his VIP celebrity styling extends through to internationally renowned celebrities such as Justin Timberlake, Kellan Luts, Amanda Seyfried, Lindsey Lohan, Dannii Minogue, Kat Dennings, Immodesty Blaize, Josh Daniel and also the Hilton sisters, Paris and Nicky.

But lets not forget his home country with various members of hit reality show ‘The Only Way Is Essex’ including sisters Billie & Samantha Faiers, Joey Essex and Gemma Collins amongst others.

Jeff’s editorial work has been published in numerous key fashion publications around the world including; UK, USA, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, United Arab Emirates and Australia.

Here he tells us how he likes to relax with long baths and how hydration is key to coping with a busy life and how travelling helps him to BeComplete!

How would you describe your lifestyle?

My life is always on the go, sometimes very stressful (Late Nights and Early mornings).

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

I love Chicken Curry or Pizza

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

I go to the gym 3 times a week when I can. I also try and walk loads.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

Haha! Hmmm you tell me?! I don’t really find balance.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

I have tried to meditate, but I find it very hard to switch off – my brain doesn’t stop…

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Yes all the time. You have to set goals otherwise you have nothing to work towards.

How do you unwind after a busy day?

The best way for me to unwind is by having a nice long hot bath..

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

For fun on the weekend I usually meet up with friends for lunches or dinners, and try and relax

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Drink lots of water in a day! Even Lemon water.

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Being complete for me means, family ,working hard, trying to be happy always and travelling the world.

Follow Jeff on his adventures on

INSTAGRAM

AND

TWITTER

Till next week,

Shine Bright

Ali xxxx

May 24, 2017/0 Comments/by Alison

Be Love, Inspiration / Motivation, Wellness Wednesday

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH JENNIFER ROCK AKA ‘THE SKIN NERD’

For this weeks Wellness Wednesday I’m chatting to Jennifer Rock AKA The Skin Nerd. I love Jen, her energy and enthusiasm for all things skin related is infectious.

I first met her when we shot some videos for Yonka about a year and a half ago (you can see them here) and have been an avid fan ever since. Her approach to skincare is refreshing, knowledgeable and honest.

But I wanted to know a little more, like how does she balance work and play and what her favourite foods are? You are going to love her answers as they prove her honesty is more than just skin deep….

How would you describe your lifestyle?

At present quite hectic. I just recently switched from being employed to self-employed, which is very different. I rebranded my product, hired nerds for my team and I also have a new business launching in the summer.

In the last quarter of this year I am launching some new products so it is busy!

As much as I love being busy and my brain to buzz and pivot, I have been ill of late and the unexpected time in a hospital bed has allowed me to place a lot in perspective. The past few weeks have highlighted key factors that have to change for me both personally and within my family.

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

Nice – Well I adore salmon, quinoa, spinach with balsamic vinegar with a few sweet potatoes and ketchup – do the tomatoes count as healthy Alison?

I have a very black and white approach towards food. It really a case of all or nothing in the health department! I wish that wasn’t the case but I cannot lie to you!

My guilty pleasure is ice cream – with raspberry sauce, flakes and ferrero rocher sauce. I love visiting scrumdiddly’s in Donabate and Dun Laoghaire. It’s simply heaven!

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

Unfortunately at present I am housebound and so exercise is not allowed for 4 more weeks. It is ironic how much I want to do it now that I cannot. To be honest it had been lacking due to my work /life balance pre operation as well. I used to be a gym bunny but during the transition from employee to self-employed I was working 19-20 hours a day for the best part of 8 months – exercise simply did not happen. I lost the physical mojo, gained three stone and have not returned since.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

I have to have me time or I am highly irritable! No phone, no TV, just time to chill and think, take a walk on the beach or sit out the back door with my shoes off for 10 minutes. It’s these small moments that count. I physically crave fresh air and time out. If I do that I am productive and nice again! I ALWAYS NEED MY SHOES OFF, ALWAYS! Unless of course I’m at a work event!

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

We did meditation in school when I was younger. An ex partner of mine was hugely involved in mindfulness, yoga and self-appreciation yet it was lost on me at that stage of my life in my twenties. It is an area I have started to read up on now. I try to not think, allow my brain to rest and I believe it is a skill I will become better at, however I try not to over think it and just be! For me there is something hugely medicinal when watching and listening to the waves – that’s my downtime!

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Yes I live by goals and challenges however they change regularly and I do not stress myself out by watching the dates pass and the target is not reached- unless it is work! I am 32 and used to so desperately want to be married by 28. Now that 28 has passed and two partners later I realize that I am happier single right now than when I was either relationship. This is by no means a reflection of the relationships but rather my own mental space. My mam used to always say ‘you cannot love someone until you love yourself’ I thought she was wrong, in fact she was wrong as I loved both my partners immensely and with every part of my being (as I do with all I give attention to – son and career included) BUT if you do not know yourself, your true self, you become lost in a couple. That is my personal musings!

How do you unwind after a busy day?

Time with my son Matt; once he walks in the door I automatically change. That email I HAD to reply to suddenly takes a back seat till he’s at soccer hours later! I try to be with him not serve him or talk at him. Easier said than done while trying to do the chores while he sits looking at me!!

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

Walks on the beach are a must, watching Matt play soccer, as it’s his passion. I love to read, potter and visit friends. My home is the home many come to and I love the open door attitude we have. Matt’s friends typically stay over on a Saturday night and we have big breakfasts on a Sunday with teenage kids “go Leor”. Memory making days are what I like to call them! Essentially I mortify my son just by being me!

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Be yourself, stop trying to struggle and juggle all while trying to please other people. Say NO. Learn your boundaries, be proud of you and don’t change for anyone. People are so happy to criticize others, so don’t get sucked in. The negative energy will affect you more than anyone else! What you put out is what you get back so move on, breath and live! Or as I say ‘be alive..don’t just live’

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Having my health, my son Matthew’s health, planning holidays, laughing out loud regularly and being somewhat content with where I am rather than dreaming aimlessly about where I’d like to be.

Is this always the case? No, but this is what I aim for and know to be my truth. I spent all my life wanting what was next, the next goal and challenge but have since realized that NOW is the reality and all we really have.

Check out Jennifer’s award winning cleanse off mitt

*******************************************************************************************************************************

Jennifer Rock is a keen skin enthusiast, a multi-award winning aesthetician, dermal facialist and international skin lecturer in the USA, London, Paris, Melbourne, Glasgow, and Dublin, and for brands and professional bodies such as ITECX and CIDESCO.

She’s attended skin conferences around the world with plastic surgeons, aesthetic doctors, dieticians, nutritionists, and nurses. She’s had the pleasure of lecturing alongside luminaries such as IMAGE Skincare certified plastic surgeon Dr Marc Ronert and the co-creator of London Harley Street Medical Hospital Dr Ahmar Khan, to name a few.

She’s been seen in U Magazine, Irish Country Magazine, Xposé, IMAGE Magazine, Sunday Business Post, Sunday Independent, Woman’s Way, Professional Beauty Magazine, BABTAC and The Irish Times, and as heard on 4fM, Today FM, Q102 and Sunshine Radio. She has her own website, the skinnerd.ie, filled with a panel of industry experts, dedicated to teaching her followers unbiased and factual skin truths along with the dos and do not’s of skin care.

However, most people simply know her as “The Skin Nerd”. Check out her amazing website

Till next week,

Shine Bright

Ali xx

#wellnesswednesday

May 10, 2017/0 Comments/by Alison

Be Love, Wellness Wednesday

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH YOGI LEE TRACEY

For this weeks wellness wednesday I’m chatting to Lee Tracey whom I met at the launch for Wellfest. I absolutely loved her energy. Then I took a look at her website and her smile and love for life and yoga just shone through. I’m so excited to try one of her classes, as she is the first Irish qualified Jivamukti teacher!

Originally from a financial services background, Lee decided to commit to her true passion; Yoga and bring classes and workshops to people that are interested in Self-expansion and growth.

She has travelled the world in order to study with masters and gurus. In New York she trained with world-renowned teachers Sharon Gannon and David Life of the Jivamukti Yoga School. She has also spent time training in the jungles of Costa Rica & has completed workshops with international yoga teachers such as Patrick Beach, Claire Missingham and Tara Judelle among many others.

As you’re about to find out she hits the mat to unwind, distress and practice mindfulness. She’s found her passion and is living it and here at Be Complete we just love that!!

How would you describe your lifestyle?

Yogic!

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

I do have a love of dark chocolate but at the mo I’m pretty in love with Avocado!

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

Yes! It’s a huge part of my life. Yoga every day. Boxing and running about 3 times a week.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

Yoga and meditation. I have never found anything as life changing as Yoga.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

Same as above!!! Sometimes when I am stressed I get on my mat and when I leave it I feel like a different person. Being able to tune in to what is making you stressed and then having the ability to let go of that is a big benefit of the practice.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Yes! I think this is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. If you don’t know where you want to be, well then how can you get there? I often look back on older goal setting lists and see where I am and how I’m progressing towards them. Sometimes they need to be adjusted & sometimes I need a kick start!

How do you unwind after a busy day?

Yoga again!! Also a love having dinner and chats with my boyfriend. He is a good listener and I always trust his advice.

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

I love music and a good gig is always great to go to. I love the energy & the feeling of connection. I also love food, so a nice meal is always welcome!

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Find whatever makes you happy & do more of it… It could be Yoga, cooking, dance, crochet, writing, running etc. Keep doing it!

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Having the ability and freedom to pursue the things I am passionate about & having love and support from my family and friends.

You can find out more about Lee on her website and she will also be at Wellfest in September

July 27, 2016/0 Comments/by Alison

Be Love, Inspiration / Motivation, Wellness Wednesday

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH SNAPCHAT STAR JAMES KAVANAGH

I’m so excited to have snapchat star James Kavanagh for my first Wellness Wednesday on my new revamped website! James has been hurled into the public eye over the past six months due to his over-active, humorous Snapchat account (jamesksnaps) which consist of scare Snaps of his boyfriend William, cooking demos and appearances from his alter-ego Veronica Sachs. His energy is contagious and if you need a boost just jump on and watch his day! More recently he came to my attention when he chatted to his nephew Sean about autism. Sean was refreshing, articulate and definitely took a little piece of my heart that day where he will stay.

Here they are hiding out in one of James favourite plants!!!

As James’ life can seem like a bit of a whirlwind sometimes I wanted to know if or how he finds any balance in his day and as you’re about to find out this posh granny just loves food, flowers and destressing with baking. I just wish I realized his top health tip at 26!!

How would you describe your lifestyle?

Eclectic. It sounds so stereotypical and eye-roll inducing to say, but no two days are the same for me. I work with lots of deadly brands because of my Snapchat profile, I have just launched a food brand with my boyfriend called Currabinny , I do freelance consultancy and I co-run a club-night once a month. So, my weeks are always all over the place!

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

It changes ALL the time. Right now I am obsessed with halloumi. I’ve been trying it in all sorts of things, but I mainly just like frying it in olive oil and eating it straight out of the pan. It’s heaven.

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

I run a lot. I would mostly run first thing in the morning – mainly to wake up. It’s such a great mood-boosting start to the day. Now, I don’t do marathons; more like 15 min runs around Phibsboro, like a madman, and then I fling myself into the shower when I get back. I try do a gym session at least once a week.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

I always ‘switch off’ (or try to) at about 6pm and watch Netflix. I’m also mad about flowers and plants, so you’ll often catch me watering/ pruning my plants in the evening, or flower arranging and dispersing flowers throughout the house in vases. I am a posh old lady at heart.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

As above, I like to garden a bit and I tend to bake when I’m stressed. I am obsessed with Lyric FM, so I often put that on and bake a cake. It’s heavenly. See, I am totally a posh granny.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Yes, I’m all about the goals. My goal is to have a café within two years. With things, I’m either completely uninterested or totally obsessed. So if I set a goal I think I can do, I’ll obsess about it and go hell for leather.

How do you unwind after a busy day?

As above; Netflix or flower arranging. I’m not a reader, but I’m mad for audio books. I’m currently listening to ‘You Must Remember This’ – it’s all about old Hollywood. It’s fascinating.

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

Food markets. Myself and William are always looking out for new ones. I could spend my entire life rambling around food markets.

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Totally simple, but moderation. Everything in moderation. Don’t overdo anything; work, food or exercise. Find a routine that suits YOU and ignore fad diets.

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Always having access to delicious food.

If you are not on snapchat you can follow James on:

Facebook – Mr James Kavanagh

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

James reaches and influences an audience of over 40,000 people daily. e has been a very welcome voice helping to raise awareness around mental health issues and often shares his feminist and anti-bullying views.

He’ll be selling food, alongside William, at various markets over the next year or so all with the goal of one day owning a cafe one day. I for one hope that’s sooner rather than later!!

CHECK OUT THEIR AWESOME NEW WEBSITE www.currabinny.ie

July 13, 2016/0 Comments/by Alison

Be Love

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH ACTRESS ROSEANNA PURCELL

I was so excited to speak to Roseanna Purcell this week after witnessing her stunning performance in David Gilna’s new play, The Unsung Hero. In todays Wellness Wednesday she explains why she champions eggs, why good communication is so important to her and why bananas are her top health tip for the Be Complete readers.

How would you describe your lifestyle?

My lifestyle can appear vicarious but I try to keep it as routed as possible. I’ve an incredible network of family and friends and lots of interests outside of acting, they keep me grounded. Working as an actor is unpredictable but I’ve learned to embrace that uncertainty and it’s now what makes my job so exciting. You never know what the future has in store, it’s unknown and that’s the thrill of it.

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

That. Is. One. Seriously. Tough. Question…. I’m a big fan of eggs. Simple in their goodness, so satisfying, comforting and variable. I’m a champion of the underrated egg.

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

At the moment I’m in between homes, I’ve had to move house twice in the last month or so, so it’s quite the upheaval to your routine. I’m looking forward to getting booked into a new gym in my new area in Glasnevin. In the meantime I have Judy Garland (my trusty bicycle) who takes me around the city.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

People. I’ll call my Mam or Dad or chat with friends I haven’t spoken to in a while or speak to everyday. Communication, at any level is so important. Being present and not elsewhere in my head. Also, (back to food J) I think it’s really important to have at least one decent meal a day, for me that’s dinner. A day feels neither here nor there for me if it doesn’t involve that unwinding, relaxing time to sit and enjoy a meal.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

Again communication. If there’s something on my back or bothering me, even if I’ve told myself to not talk about it, it manages to seep out in conversations. People you trust, who know you offer reassurance, help and comfort. Engaging and really living in the present and not imaginary stresses about the future etc. Also singing. Music; playing or listening. DANCING! Music is very much part of who I am and offers huge cathartic release. Try turning on some tunes that make you feel good, turn it up and just dance! Good for the soul stuff! I haven’t meditated but I’m up for trying it.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Very much so. I have done since I was small. I’m stubborn about them too! But as I get older I’ve learned to be stubborn about your goals and flexible in your methods of achieving them. Life throws up lots of diversions, embrace them and trust you are still going in the right direction. Everything happens for a reason!

How do you unwind after a busy day?

A phone call to someone close to me, my fella or family or friends. Cooking something, I’m no Masterchef but love the therapeutic, rewarding process.

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

I try to fill it with cultural things. You’ll find me in a theatre enjoying an enriching stage experience, the cinema, the odd gig now and then. Ireland is saturated in artistic talent, get out there and soak it up!

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Bananas! They settle nerves, they’re filling and full of goodness. Bananas and communicating, just careful not to combine the two. That would be most unhealthy!

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Being surrounded by good people.

Roseanna is an award winning actress, hailing from Co. Tipperary. She attended UCC studying Drama and Theatre before going on to train full time as a professional actor at The Gaiety School of Acting. Some of Roseanna’s memorable theatre credits include AnnaBellaEema (Rough Magic Seeds), War Of Attrition (Devious Theatre Company; Dublin Fringe Festival Best Female Performer Nomination), The Bridge Below The Town (Livin’ Dred Theatre Company), Beyond The Brooklyn Sky (Red Kettle Theatre Company) and Perfidia (Theatre Upstairs). As well as being a professional actor Roseanna is also a singer and musician. She is currently a member of Discovery Gospel Choir; Ireland’s leading intercultural choir and plays both violin and piano. She is currently performing in “The Unsung Hero” by David Gilna at Theatre Upstairs on Eden Quay running until April 2nd. Following this she will be performing in “Signatories”, a prestigous theatrical event collaborating with world class writers such as Emma O’Donoghue, Frank McGuinness and Marina Carr, directed by Patrick Mason as part of the Easter Rising commemorations, playing at Kilmainham Gaol and other various venues across Dublin.

Tickets still available for “The Unsung Hero” by David Gilna at Theatre Upstairs on Eden Quay running until April 2nd

March 30, 2016/0 Comments/by Alison

Be Love, Inspiration / Motivation

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH AUTHOR ANDREA HAYES

I’m ridiculously excited to have Andrea Hayes as my #wellnesswednesday guest this week because she is one of the most genuine, driven, supportive and talented people I know. She has always been there for me and i’m delighted that her first book ‘Pain-Free Life; My Journey to Wellness’ is in stores now! The book is an honest and open look at pain and in particular a brave personal story that is both moving and incredibly inspirational. She is a passionate advocate for chronic pain awareness and is currently on the governing body of Chronic Pain Ireland, she is a trained clinical hypnotherapist and shares free healing downloads on her website andreahayes.ie

Andrea is best known for presenting TV3’s hugely successful series Ireland’s Animal A&E. She is also the associate producer on the popular format which has sold internationally and has aired across 12 countries, including the United States, Australia, Denmark, Finland, Canada and on Channel 5 in the UK. She also presents ‘Sunshine Meets’ on Dublin radio station Sunshine 106.8.

How would you describe your lifestyle?

My wellness is central to most of my lifestyle choices, managing any chronic illness every day requires a lot of pacing and spacing of activities and tasks and that’s what I have to apply to my everyday planning of my day. So my lifestyle is very measured and balanced.

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

I don’t eat meat so I adore vegetables, at the moment I am having a love affair with chickpeas so I eat a lot of dishes with them as a core ingredient. We also love smoothies in our house and my daughter is excellent at combining unusual flavors. I love brown whole meal bread and hummus. I have recently discovered ‘Nobu’ a diary free ice cream, I am really loving the vanilla and coconut flavour.

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

With my chronic pain condition there is always a little fear avoidance with exercise and also I am limited to what I can physically do. So I tend to stick to walking, nothing too strenuous. I have a nice gentle walk with my dog most days.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

Balance is central to any good wellness and pain management program so I work on keeping everything in balance as much a possible. Planning and prioritising my tasks is a wonderful way to identify what are the important things to focus on. Every evening I like to make a little plan and list for the day ahead so I can focus my attention on what I want to achieve. It is so easy to become distracted with social media and the general diversions that crop up in everyday life so keeping the balance right is the key to having a harmonious day for me.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

I have studied hypnosis and have trained as a clinical hypnotherapist so I use my own formula of hypnosis and deep relaxation for my own physical healing and wellbeing. I am also a great believer in reframing your mind to focus on the positives, using affirmations, auto suggestion and focused self talk daily to keep my mind and body in tune. I have free hypnosis for Healing, Manifesting goals and Health Affirmations on my new website.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?

Everyday I set an intention about my health, and apply an affirmation to help my mind and body achieve my intended goal – I regularly say ‘I am safe, I am secure, my body is restoring itself back to perfect health and I am well’

In terms of long term goals, I had a very specific intention to reduce and eventually come off my long term medication to treat the many chronic conditions that I have and I am so grateful I have successfully reached that goal with the help and guidance of my medical team, it has been a long road, and has taken me almost two years to get to this place now. I take every day as it comes but I know I will always be affirming my daily intentions and will continue to set goals as I continue on my life’s journey.

How do you unwind after a busy day?

I like to watch TV or read a good book but if I have had a stressful day I find the only way for me to pull all my energy back to a place of love and balance is to do some relaxations, hypnosis or meditations. Depending on my mood I will always try to spend some quiet reflective time alone in my ‘sacred space’ to work on unwinding and getting into a peaceful mindset

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?

I love to spend time with my family; anything from a long walk in the mountains with our dog ‘Dash’ to discovering a new restaurant or ice-cream parlor is my idea of bliss! I just enjoy having quality time together nothing beats that special time.

What’s your top health tip for our readers?

Follow your instincts on your own health and do what feels right for you.

In terms of managing any illness or chronic pain my advice would be to become an empowered patient, don’t be afraid to challenge the medical profession and look for a second opinion if you don’t feel listened too or taken seriously -change your doctor. Seek out support from other patients on social media or through a local group or self help charity.

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Harnessing the power of my own magnificent mind to have complete wellness and love in my mind, body and affairs.

FOLLOW ANDREA ON HER SITE

andreahayes.ie

TWITTER

February 17, 2016/0 Comments/by Alison

Fitness, Inspiration / Motivation, Newsletter

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY WITH NIALL O’CALLAGHAN

For this week’s Wellness Wednesday I’m chatting to Activities & Resources Manager with Pure Results Bootcamp Niall O’Callaghan. Pure Results Bootcamp is owned by TV Presenter Kathryn Thomas and I recently had the pleasure of being part of a wellness event in Arnotts with both Kathryn and some of her team including Niall. As a Fitness Instructor, Strength & Conditioning Coach and Life Coach, Niall has a varied role and quite a different one from his Engineering & Project Management background.

Niall also now runs his own Fitness Classes and provides the Corporate World with activities and workshops to help motivate people to be active and to be at their best, both for themselves, their families and everyone else around them! He loves to participate in Road Races, Marathons, Adventure Races & Triathlons. He works alongside his wife Jennifer, a Nutritional Therapist & Health & Wellness Coach and together they provide the complete package for everyone looking to make improvements in Health, Fitness & Wellbeing area of their lives. So just how does he balance it all? Read more to find out!

How would you describe your lifestyle?

I would consider my lifestyle a really exciting one. I’m really proud to say that I live an extraordinary life with lots of excitement, adventure, challenge, love, fun and really good people. Since I have started working with http://pureresultsbootcamp.com/ & Kathryn Thomas, I have found that I really enjoy what I do, and that lots of other exciting opportunities are coming up, which are all in line with how I want my future to pan out.

What’s your favorite food? Naughty or nice.

I love home cooked food (something simple like a homemade turkey bolognaise) or a stir fry with lots of vegetables. I especially like these after being away from home for a few days. I’m also very lucky that Jen is always experimenting with new foods for her Nutrition Workshops so I get to try new and exciting foods (and some treats of course). I also love dark chocolate and a big treat for me is a double chocolate muffin (gluten free of course).

Do you exercise and if so what do you do to keep fit?

I exercise nearly every day, I’m a strong advocate of everyone getting some exercise, even if it’s a 20min walk, everyday. It’s also good to have a rest day from intense exercise at least once per week. I’m lucky that training is part of my job with Pure Results Bootcamp and I also have my own classes and clients.

I go through phases of my own training. I focus on the next event that I want to complete like a 10-mile road race, a marathon or an adventure race and base my activity to suit. It gives me a good variation and I like that. I love to do a marathon every 2-3 years so that when it comes around again I’m really hungry to do as well as I can. I really enjoy the training and lead up then.

How do you find balance in your day-to-day life?

I think it’s all about planning and preparation. If I’m very busy, I’ll try to get some exercise done in the morning and I’m tending to prefer the mornings now for exercise. This may mean getting up really early but that’s ok once I get enough sleep. I do get 7 hours quality sleep most nights. To keep a balance, I also like to have some quiet time for meditation, just 10-15 mins in the morning does me. I also like to have some time everyday to spend with Jen to catch up on what’s going on or just to chill out.

How do you manage stress in your life? Do you meditate? Have you ever tried it?

Yes, a good day for me is a day when I have meditation as part of it. I also recently started a new technique called priming. This really gets me in the zone! A little stress can be good when it’s causing me to go outside my comfort zone. I’m lucky that I don’t think I have much stress in my life at the moment. I heard recently that when you are very busy doing something you don’t like, its stressful, but when you love what you do, being busy is just “living with passion!”.

People often set goals or intentions as they go through life. Is this something you do?
Definitely, I have a workshop that I give which is based on Goal Setting and creating Habits for Success. I always set intentions as to how I want to approach something and how I want things to work out for me. I believe it’s good to have small and big goals but the intensity or focus of these may change. It’s good to sit back and reduce the high intensity at times too.

How do you unwind after a busy day?
I enjoy getting out for a walk with Jen where we can catch up on the day’s event. I also love to get to the pool and a few minutes in a Jacuzzi is always welcomed! A good comedy always helps to switch off the brain also.

It’s the weekend, what do you do for fun?
Fun is based around exercise a lot for me. I really enjoy events like races and get a great buzz from them. The weekend is also time to catch up with family and relax with them.

What’s your top health tip for our readers?
Be active and eat well. These bodies of ours were built to move and they will perform better when they do move. Sometimes it takes a big kick-start to change a habit, and that’s what’s great about Pure Results Bootcamp, as it provides that Massive Action to get the ball rolling. The momentum for this can then last for a long time. There is lots of wisdom available on exercise and nutrition, which is provided at Pure Results, and I’m very proud to be a part of this amazing team

Finish the sentence – Being complete for me means…

Being of great service by preparing well, working hard, celebrating and recovering….

YOU CAN FOLLOW NIALL ON

TWITTER

or his website dynamicsuccess.net

YOU CAN FOLLOW JENNIFER O’CALLAGHAN, Pure Results Nutritional Therapist on her website www.nutrition4living.ie

Check out Pure Results Bootcamp by Kathryn Thomas here www.pureresultsbootcamp.com

February 10, 2016/0 Comments/by Alison