‘If I’m anything like my mum is at 86, then I’ll be happy’
we have to cancel concerts, and sometimes months of preparation can have been a total waste if a cold comes along and we lose our voices. It’s particularly important when you’re doing an opera or a show as you’re on stage every day (sometimes twice) with a whole cast, crew and opera house full of people depending on you to deliver. There’s a lot of pressure to ensure you’re fit, healthy, and able to perform to the best of your ability every night — so I do what I can to try and keep myself vocally, physically, and mentally fit. The show must go on!
How do you take time out?
I love hill walking. There’s really nothing better than that feeling of satisfaction when you reach the top and it’s time for your picnic, though it’s a little trickier now we have a little one with us. I still try to get up a few hills every now and again, though. Spending time with my family is probably my favourite way to relax and unwind — that’s my main way of taking time out.
How well do you sleep?
In the last two or three years between pregnancy and the early years with Daisy, it’s been pretty hopeless what with night feeds and nappy changes. But it’s just starting to get back to normal now which is a huge relief. I always remind myself that they use sleep deprivation as a form of torture when I’m walking around in a daze after a night of teething or a fever. Fingers crossed, those days are over, and I can finally get my sleep cycle back to normal again!
Do you worry about getting old?
No — my mother is 86 and she is the most energetic, lively, full of fun person I know! Age is definitely only a number, and you’re only as old as you feel. If I’m anything like my mum is at 86, then I’ll be happy.
What is your go-to product that keeps you feeling healthy?
I love krill oil as a supplement. It’s great for your joints and can also help to improve your heart health. I’m a big fan of curcumin too. It’s a potent anti-inflammatory which can help stave off heart disease, Alzheimers, and some cancers. Both are pretty easy to add in to your everyday routine, so they’re my go-to.
Ailish performs at the Home Sweet Home afternoon recital and the evening concert at the Clandeboye Festival this Sunday, August 18. The festival runs from August 16-24 at Clandeboye Estate near Bangor. Details are available at www.goh.co.uk/clandeboye-festival
Linda Stewart