Erin McNaught: ‘I’d been taking my health for granted’

A couple of nasty mishaps on TV programs made Erin McNaught take stock of her health and reconsider its importance. Here’s what she does to look after herself.

Good health is easy to take for granted, like it’s going to last forever.

It’s a bit like all those airbags, radars and sensors in your car. As long as it’s driving like it should, you don’t give them a second thought. But when you really need all that safety stuff, like if you have an accident, you’ll definitely notice if they’re not there.

For the body, the equivalent of a car accident is an injury, something that stops us doing all the things we’d usually do. And once you’ve been laid up with one – and I’ve had plenty – you can’t help but look at your fitness in an entirely new way.

Erin McNaught says regular exercise, healthy eating and lots of sleep is key to her wellbeing. Picture: John Gass

For Australian model, actress and television personality Erin McNaught, it was a couple of nasty mishaps on television programs that made her take stock of her health and reconsider its importance.

“I injured myself during SAS Australia, and again doing Dancing With The Stars, and these injuries really changed my life quite a lot,” says the 39 year old.

“It made me realise how precious our health is and how much I’d been taking it for granted.

“That’s why a really proactive approach to health and wellbeing is so important to me. We need to look after ourselves now so we can live long, active lives, and this is what motivates me to stay fit and healthy.”

The ever-busy mother of two has a regular routine in place to make sure she avoids illness and stays in tip-top shape, too. And that is to stay proactive, rather than reactive, when it comes to keeping her body in tip-top shape.

“I don’t have time to be sick, so I have a daily routine that keeps my body and immune system as strong and healthy as it can be,” she says.

“I’ve learnt that regular exercise, healthy eating and getting lots of sleep are key to my overall health. I’m also a massive fan of vitamin and mineral supplements, particularly during the winter cold and flu season.

“It might not work for everyone, but I’ve learned that this proactive approach is what keeps my body and wellbeing in check.”

The former Miss Universe Australia likes to keep her body in tip-top shape. Picture: Liam Kidston

ERIN McNAUGHT ON …

Mornings

“My day starts pretty family focused – I’ll spend time with the kids playing Lego, then making lunches and off to the school run. I then get a bit of time to myself, and that’s when I’ll focus on my own time, including health and wellbeing.”

Health

“Cold and flu season can be a crazy time for families, particularly with the kids bringing back all sorts of germs from school and daycare. That’s why I pay extra attention to my immune system health during the colder months.”

Mindfulness

“I find trail running is so good for my mind and a great form of exercise to help support my overall health. It’s great to be out in nature and getting the vitamin D rays is important, too.”

Sleep

“I’m a big fan of setting up a proper sleep routine that includes trying to stick to a regular bedtime as well as limiting screen time before bed. We also have a rule of no phones in the bedroom.”

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Originally published as Erin McNaught: ‘I’d been taking my health for granted’