Health

Armagh TikTok star and beautician, Annalivia Hynds: I don't have any regrets; I think everything in life is a lesson

Gail Bell asks experts and people in the public eye what keeps them going. This week: Armagh TikTok star and beautician, Annalivia Hynds, who is representing offical charity partner, Cancer Focus, in next month's new Almac Belfast City Women's 10k

Armagh TikTok star and beautician Annalivia Hynds
Armagh TikTok star and beautician Annalivia Hynds Armagh TikTok star and beautician Annalivia Hynds
1

Up and at it - what is your morning routine?

My morning routine as a busy mum of two young children is waking up, getting everyone fed, cleaned and dressed, and then heading out on a morning walk (if the weather is dry). Afterwards, I usually hit the gym for some strength work.

2

What might you eat in a typical working day for...Breakfast?

A typical breakfast will involve overnight oats or scrambled egg.

Lunch?

This varies but I try to incorporate protein into every and if I need some extra, I'll get it through shakes and bars.

Evening meal?

Chicken and rice with lots of greens.

3

Is nutrition important to you – do you take health supplements?

Absolutely, nutrition is a big part of my life, I have about six vitamins that I take every day, along with a balanced diet. I've always struggled with iron, so a couple of these vitamins are to make sure I get enough of that and I also take vitamin D and C, omega 3 and a few others. I also give my children child-friendly vitamins, too.

4

Ever been on a diet – if so, how did it go?

I track my calories most days and have a coach to help me with this. We focus on hitting my protein goal and having enough energy each day to help me with my busy life. Depending on the season and my goals, I will sometimes be in a calorie surplus, calorie deficit or maintenance calories. I have a brilliant coach, Bubba Ali, who owns Bubba's Project Gym in Armagh, and he helps me with all of this.

5

Weekend treat?

For me, a weekend treat is definitely heading to our local cafe 4C Coffee House and Kitchen and getting their delicious French toast and a lovely coffee.

6

How do you keep physically and mentally fit?

I keep physically fit by going to the gym most days and by taking regular, long walks. Mentally, I also keep fit by walking – and by putting my phone down, reading books and taking time to do the things I love.

7

Best tip for everyday fitness?

My best tip for everyday fitness would be to just move your body in whatever way that works for you – whether that is a run, a walk, a gym session or a hike.

8

Were you a fan of schools sports/PE or do you have a memory from those days that you would rather forget?

In school, I loved PE – I got an A* in my GCSE PE and I played for my school's GAA, camogie and cross-country teams.

9

Teetotal or tipple?

I would have an odd drink if I'm out socialising, but this year I told myself I was going to reduce this. I didn't drink any alcohol from January to the end of March. I honestly felt great, but it's nice to have one or two, sometimes.

10

Stairs or lift?

I always try to take the stairs, but if I have a pram with me, then it's definitely the lift.

11

What book are you currently reading?

I love books. I've read all the Colleen Hoover books this year. I'm currently reading a A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson (The title sounds bad, but I promise, it isn't).

12

Best Netflix?

I have just finished watching The Night Agent on Netflix and highly recommend it.

13

Most surprising thing you've learned about yourself over the pandemic?

Over the pandemic, I had my first child. It was extremely difficult not being able to see loved ones, so I guess I learned just how strong we can all be, mentally. I also took up running during the pandemic, so I discovered that you can learn anything once you put your mind to it.

14

Any new skills or hobbies?

My current hobbies include walking, going to the gym or running. I love learning new things and I would like to learn a new language soon.

15

How do you relax?

I relax by putting on my favourite podcast, doing a deep skincare routine and just chilling out.

16

What are your goals for 2023?

One of my goals for 2023 is to take my children travelling more and also to start a podcast. I haven't quite started the podcast, but I am looking into it.

17

What time do you get to bed and do you think you get enough sleep?

I go to bed around 10pm each night and wake up at 6am. With two young kids, it's hard to always get a great night's sleep, but this is always changing. I've learnt to just get up and get on with it and fight the tiredness.

18

Biggest gripe or regret?

No, I don't have any regrets; I think everything in life is a lesson.

19

Have your priorities in life or perspectives changed?

My biggest priority in life is to provide my children with amazing memories. I currently don't work, as I want to spend as much time as possible with them before they go to school. Memories are far more important to me than material things.

20

Has coronavirus – or any health epiphany or life event – changed your attitude towards your own mortality?

I honestly like to try and live my life to the full each and every day because we just don't know what's around the corner. So, for me, it's all about creating memories with the people I love.

:: The Almac Belfast City Women's 10k takes place on Sunday June 18. Deadline to register is Wednesday June 7. eventmaster.ie/event/G9xRCkKtpd