Celia Holman-Lee, former model, founder of the Holman-Lee model agency and fashion presenter on TV3
Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?
I don’t think it’s too bad. It’s full of anxieties and full of nervous tension though before a big show. After nearly 40 years in the business, I wouldn’t get nervous, but it’s in the make-up of me.
Do you exercise?
I didn’t start exercising until I was about 55. Being in the modelling industry, I have great posture. I’m a massive believer in it and I think maybe that helped me. As you move on in life, muscle tone is really important though, so I had to start exercising. I had no choice. I do weights for my arms, leg exercises and a little bit of aerobics. I’m 60 now and you just have to. I don’t understand this feeling better after it because I never feel better after it.
Do you get your five a day?
I have fruit in the morning with yoghurt. For lunch, it’s homemade soup and brown bread with a bit of cheese and tomato. With dinner, I might have broccoli, green beans, carrots, parsnips or turnips. Cabbage and bacon is one of my favourite dishes. If I’m on the road, I bring a protein drink and I eat nuts as well. When you’re young, you can fight anything, but as you move on, you’ve just got to be responsible.
Do you worry?
I do. No matter what I do, I’m always anxious that it’s done well. Next year, I’ll be 10 years presenting with Ireland AM and I’m still tense before I do it.
What do you do to relax?
I’m not a great reader though my head will probably be stuck in a fashion magazine. I love a glass of wine or a meal with friends. I find my grandson very relaxing and I’m going to be a grandmother again this month.
What’s your worst habit?
Skipping meals – working and saying, “I’m grand, I’ll have a coffee”. It doesn’t make you thinner; it makes you punier-looking if you ask me. For women my age, you have to watch the “osteo” too. There’s no point at this stage of your life being on some crazy diet that can do more damage than good.
