‘Insomnia can be crippling ... I read at night to relax’
Do you take any health supplements?
At this time of year I normally use some supplements, and at the minute I’m taking the BetterYou vitamin D and B12 sprays to boost my immune system and help with energy levels. If I feel the edge of a cold or a sore throat I’ll take vitamin C.
How do you take time out?
During the day I write, but once my kids come out from school its full on, so by the end of the week everyone is tired. Regular exercise helps, not only physically, but also mentally. I think its important to plan downtime as otherwise you can keep moving along at the same pace until you burn out. My husband is very busy running a hospitality business, so I make sure I book nights out and breaks away with the kids, as it forces you to get off that treadmill and relax. Most weekends, we like to do something active with the kids, like go for a long walk at Crawfordsburn Country Park or take them to play tennis or swim.
How well do you sleep?
Being a writer, I’ve got a very active imagination and tend to over-analyse things, so I can find it difficult to switch off at night. I’ve suffered from insomnia for quite a few years and I’ve tried everything as a means to tackle it, including acupuncture, hypnosis and yoga. At times insomnia can be crippling, as without sleep your physical and mental wellbeing suffer. Mindfulness meditation techniques have helped me in recent years, and I always read at night to try and relax my mind.
Do you worry about getting old?
Ageing is not really something I give a lot of thought to. I guess that it should be seen as a privilege to grow old, as many don’t get that opportunity.
Growing old is not something we should think of in a negative sense. I just hope that I’m fit and well for as long as possible to enjoy my life.
What is your go-to product/ habit that keeps you feeling healthy?
The simple things, really — fresh air, good food, being active and enjoying life
Elastic Girl by Olivia Rana is available on Amazon.co.uk, priced £7.99