Vanessa Carreira Chats mommyhood and reveals how she keeps her body in tip-top shape!
So Vanessa, how’s mommyhood treating you?
Fantastic! I love being a mother; it’s my most fulfilling role to date
You must have your hands full with the kids! How do you make time for exercise?
At this stage with the babies being so small it is difficult but I try to fit it in wherever possible. We have a staircase at home and obviously with four kids I’m constantly running up and down so I try to pick up the pace a little. I also fill arbitrary minutes with exercise if I can, for example, the four minutes used to sterilise baby bottles are filled with squats and lunges. The two minutes I take to brush my teeth are filled with leg raises. We also have a treadmill at home so if I have 10 minutes free I’ll do a brisk walk – every little bit helps I think.
Are you currently on a strict eating and exercise plan?
Not at all! I’m breastfeeding so I need to keep my energy up so I try very hard to eat a healthy varied diet. Of course given the chaos it is easy to forget to eat proper meals so I try graze on healthy snacks like fruit, dried fruit, energy bars and seed bars throughout the day.
What’s your top tip for women wanting to get in shape?
As I mentioned, every little bit helps. Start off slowly and build up gradually until you’re feeling stronger.
You’re the ambassador of Adventure Boot Camp for Women. What do you love about the camps?
It’s a great varied workout and I love working out outdoors, there is something exhilarating about being outside!
What do you love most about your body?
I love that it’s healthy and that it has brought four children into the world. I feel strong and vital and I love that feeling of capability.
What do you enjoy most about being a mom?
The simple rewards, a smile or a hug from my three year old. The responsibility of raising children can sometimes be daunting but every minute is validated when you witness your child growing into a thoughtful, intelligent and conscientious person.
How do you take time out from your busy schedule?
I have an amazing husband who spoils me weekly by booking an at home massage for me. It’s an hour of peace and quiet and I relish it!