While writing my new novel, Almost Love, and suffering with the longest bout of acute insomnia that I've ever experienced, I realised how much I had used my eating disorder in the past as a way of managing stress. In recovery, I've had to think of different, healthier ways of dealing with anxiety.
I have now found a method that works for me, but it consists of three different elements: meditation, yoga, and running.
I try to meditate every day, and I take a sunrise yoga class at 7am four times a week. That takes care of my busy mind, gifting me with pockets of stillness that are invaluable.
However, I still find that a lot of nervous energy tends to build up in my body, so I need to sweat it out. I’m a member of the gym at the Inchydoney Lodge and Spa and I go at least five times a week.
I run on the treadmill for 30 minutes, lift weights for another 15, and then I swan off to the relaxation room overlooking the beach to read my book and drink cucumber water.
Some days, I think I joined the gym just for that relaxation room alone…
- Louise O'Neill's latest novel, Almost Love, is published by Riverrun
