Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh, broadcaster and judge on The All Ireland Talent Show
Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?
Yes, I now have a healthier lifestyle than I did. A healthier lifestyle is awareness and that only comes with age. We all know the facts, but a healthy lifestyle is balance and I have that. I have had numerous procedures to my abdomen, and my right-hand side twinges when I am doing too much, so I am lucky I have an alarm! Also having a life is accepting an invitation to go for that walk, have that coffee and heading off to the cinema on your own with a tub of ice cream.
How often do you exercise?
Three times a week. I do Pilates on Monday – which has been like my physio after my abdominal surgery – on Wednesday I spend an hour with a personal trainer and on Friday I go to the gym. I don’t look forward to it, but I always feel better afterwards. The next day the few pains are uncomfortable but strangely enjoyable.
Do you get your five a day?
Yes, I probably do, but I struggle with what to have for brekkie – it’s hard not to eat toast and porridge is boring every day. Brekkie can be fresh banana smoothies, our own hen’s eggs and sausages. Lunch is soup, mostly with fresh veg. Dinner will always include fresh veg. I don’t think it’s a good idea to eat different foods than the kids eat – it creates fussy eaters.
Do you worry?
Yes, of course I do, but I probably worry less than I did about things that I cannot control. Now when I worry I get anxious, and this feeling makes me take control through breathing exercises.
What do you do to relax?
Age is a natural relaxant. I relax through breathing exercises and probably by not being so tired. I find relaxation in many ways – watching TV, especially comedy, a late supper when the house is asleep and visiting a church. Sometimes the noise can be as relaxing with the quiet.
What’s your unhealthiest habit?
Eating too fast and drinking alcohol and coffee, and a craving for sweet things. My unhealthiest habit has been stress, but addressing that is now my healthiest habit. Stress was my demon – I can’t change me, but I can change how I respond to stress.
