Mary Bowen, opera singer, tells Patricia Westonhow she feels she should take care of the "shell" that houses her spirit so that she can fulfil her purpose in this universe
What's your fitness regime?
Mostly, I practise yoga; Bikram is my favourite and I also practise meditation.
By just breathing on a very deep, concentrated level, one can burn calories and keep very healthy over a cumulative period.
If I cannot attend yoga, I try to get regular cardio exercise by walking for at least 20-30 minutes a day. Sometimes, time can be an issue. If this is the case, I will do a series of exercises in my room called the Five Tibetan Rites.
They are really not exercises as much as postures of rejuvenation; they serve to cleanse the chakras and promote deep, meditative breathing.
Is there any part of your body you would like to change?
I would love to lose about 10 more pounds and have a more toned tummy and thighs. But, in general, I am content with how I look. Being an opera singer, I feel I must stay fit and healthy in order to have good stamina on stage and throughout a rehearsal process.
Have you ever dieted?
Yes, I tried the South Beach Diet. It actually works very well; however, it gets very expensive and you feel like the only thing you ever can have time for is cooking all day.
Have you ever used any alternative remedies?
Once, I saw an Ayurevedic specialist and began a set series of herbs, etc to try to balance my system. I liked it; however, it became too much of a financial burden. It was very expensive. On an artist's budget, there was no way I could maintain it.
Is exercise an important part of your life?
Yes, exercise is very important to me. Whether or not I was a singer, I would like to be the best me I possibly can for as long as I possibly can.
I feel I should take care of the "shell" that houses my spirit so that I can try to grow to fulfil my purpose here in this universe. Plus I love the energy it gives me.
Mary Bowen sings Dorabellain Opera Ireland's Spring Season production of Mozart's Cosi fan tuttewhich runs on alternating nights to Donizetti's Don Pasqualeat the new temporary venue, the RDS Concert Hall from May 25th until June 2nd.
Patricia Weston's exercise prescription:
Take a tip from Mary and perform the Five Tibetan Rites to improve flexibility, increase energy and relax your body and mind:
Begin in a standing position with your arms outstretched and parallel to the floor. Spin around in a clockwise direction, up to 21 times.
Lie on your back on the floor with your arms by your sides, then breathe in and raise your head off the floor and your straightened legs up. Breathe out and return to the starting position.
Kneel on the floor with your hands placed behind you on the back of your thighs. Bend your chin towards your chest then tilt your neck back arching your spine, hold and return.
Sit on the floor with your palms on the floor behind you and your straightened legs outstretched, then place your chin on your chest and tilt your head back as you bend your knees and raise up on your feet into a table position.
Lie face down on the floor on your toes with your palms on the floor and make sure your body is sagging. Then tilt your head back and bend your hips and come up into a down dog position, tucking your head between your arms.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.
• Consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider before embarking on any exercise regime and stop exercising if you feel nauseous or dizzy.