A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of chatting with Jennifer Hawkins over a lunch at the Mount Franklin Lightly Sparking Water launch in Balmoral, Sydney. Jen was Miss Universe in 2004 and since then has become the face of Myer, ambassador for numerous brands, owner of multiple businesses, a property developer and television host. So somehow, amongst all this, Jen looks after her health and mental wellbeing. She knows this is both the key to her success and ability to enjoy life. Like many of you are probably wondering, my question to her ‘was HOW do you do it?!’ So here’s Jens low down on what she does to keep her body in shape (especially around end of year and Christmas functions) and her mind free from unsustainable amounts of stress.
Jennifer Hawkins diet tips
As many of us know, to keep your body in shape, its 70% the food you eat and 30% the exercise you do. Jen isn’t one for starving herself because apart from being completely unsustainable and unhealthy, her days are long (shoot days can be 12-15 hours!) and she exercises regularly so both her body and mind need to be fuelled well to keep her on top of her game. ‘Eating healthy, fresh and clean foods is a huge part of my routine and lifestyle. I really notice a difference in my energy levels when I eat a healthy and balanced diet’ Jen shared. Her top tip was to ‘find healthy habits that you enjoy and it will be easier to stick to them.’ For example, ‘in the warmer months I naturally gravitate towards big, beautiful salads filled with gorgeous vegetables, legumes and proteins, as well as fresh fruit and wholegrains.’ Staying hydrated and drinking lots of water is also essential for Jen, she drinks 2-3L per day depending on her training.
Some of the beautiful salads we enjoyed at the launch luncheon in Balmoral
What does Jennifer Hawkins workout routine look like?
Jen’s exercise routine includes does a combination of running 3-5 times a week, pilates a couple of times a week, resistance training (particularly weighted squats and tricep dips), walking her dog, and stretching. The amount of exercise does increase if there is a shoot coming up.
Jennifer Hawkins’ stress management methods
But exercise isn’t just a part of Jen’s routine to keep her body looking amazing, for her it’s also essential for her mind, which I imagine like most entrepreneurial business women would often be running at one hundred miles per hour. ‘I make sure I move every day, for my mind as well as my body. I love pilates and running on the beach as these forms of exercise really helps me to clear my mind, relax and unwind. I also love taking my dog, Milly, for big long walks – she is the best exercise buddy!’ Jen explained. I completely agree that walking your dog is such a wonderful ‘reset’ for your mind. When Reis is home, we love to do this together and debrief about our days – there’s something about a walk with a panting pup bouncing around your feet and some fresh air that leaves you feeling like a new person. We come home with many problems either solved or feeling far less burdensome! If you don’t have a dog, contact your local shelter and see if you can volunteer to walk one of theirs, I guarantee they would appreciate the help and it would add a pop of joy into your day.
When there’s no motivation – what does Jen do?
We all (Jen included!) have days where we feel down or tired, so how does Jen deal with this? ‘If I’m tired, jet lagged or just having a bad day, I’ll just sweat it out and all the endorphins make me feel better’ she said. ‘I [also] try to meditate for 10 minutes every day and I feel so much more mindful, present and calm when I do. ‘
Jen’s tips for staying healthy over the Christmas holiday season
Jen suggests entertaining your guests with some great tunes and summer activities to keep you moving, whether it is lawn bowls or some backyard cricket, plus a killer playlist is bound to get any party started. In terms of food she said ‘seafood is a great option, it goes perfectly with big, colourful fresh salads and fruit platters. The great thing about living in Australia during summer is that there is no shortage of beautiful and fresh seafood. I also like to have Mount Franklin Lightly Sparkling cans with a hint of natural flavours on the table to keep everyone refreshed and hydrated.
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