When it comes to taking on projects, Aussie TV presenter and health coach Rachael Finch is no stranger to having a lot on her plate.
A well-known face across the Tasman, the former model and Miss Universe Australia winner runs a popular lifestyle website, and has done stints on Celebrity MasterChef Australia and Dancing with the Stars.
Most recently, she’s launched an online fitness programme, Body of Dance by Rachael Finch, and penned a cookbook called Happy, Healthy, Strong, which recently hit Kiwi shores.
For Finch, who’s just had her second baby, a balanced life is as much about a healthy body as it is about a calm, happy mind.
She chatted to Good Health Choices about modelling, meditation, and the importance of living in the moment.
What is the Body of Dance programme?
It’s so exciting; I’ve been working on it for a couple of years now. B.O.D is based around balance, rhythm and flexibility, and inspiring others to dance their way to health.
I met my husband (professional dancer Michael Miziner) on Dancing with the Stars in 2010, and dancing has been my life ever since. I love it because it’s such a fun way to work out. With B.O.D there’s a new workout each week, as well as stretches, meditation, and healthy meal plans.
My husband choreographs the routines, and it’s designed so anyone can do it, from beginners to dance professionals.
How has dancing benefited your own health?
I’ve found it great for toning, strengthening, core conditioning, balance and posture. Plus there are all the mental benefits like improved memory and better focus. It’s a full mind and body experience; I get so much out of it!
What does an average day’s exercise routine look like for you?
For me, it’s all about moving the body. As well as dancing, I like stretching, walking or taking a yoga class. I don’t like to put too much pressure on myself, but I do try to do some form of exercise every day.
Have you danced throughout your pregnancy?
Absolutely, and we’ve recently launched a pregnancy version of the B.O.D programme. Dancing is great for releasing happy endorphins, plus you don’t need any equipment and you can do it virtually anywhere.
What prompted you to get involved with the health and fitness industry?
I’ve been into sport since I was about three; in fact my mum said I once took off down the running track with nothing on! I started modelling when I was 15, and spent the next 10 years doing it, so in a way I’ve always used my body for work. I’m really interested in all the different ways we can feel better every day. We only have one body; we have to take care of it and be grateful for it.
What’s your food philosophy?
I like simple ingredients, and stick to the old saying ‘everything in moderation’. I think it’s not about putting rules and restrictions on yourself, but it helps to steer clear of refined and processed ingredients, and focus on eating real food. I don’t follow any particular diet, as I don’t agree with cutting anything out completely. Plus I like to eat what I feel like on the day, rather than sticking to a routine. It’s also about basics like listening to your body and noting how you feel after eating certain foods.
What things do you like to do to boost your mood?
Something I think helps is stopping and taking a few deep breaths. Also good nutrition, and eating lots of colours, especially greens, as they’re packed with so many vitamins. When I need a boost I like to do simple things like having a swim or going for a walk in nature.
Do you have any health rituals you couldn’t do without?
Lots of laughter, lots of water, stretching and meditation. I started meditation about 12 years ago when I first got into yoga, and initially I was a bit like ‘what’s this weird thing?!’ But now I love it. I try to do it every morning and night, and I really notice it if I haven’t done it – I just feel agitated and less calm.
With so much on your plate, how do you manage your days?
Planning is so important to me; I’m not the sort of person who can get away with winging it! My husband and I are both really organised, we like to follow a plan, so that way it’s about staying calm and being in the moment. It doesn’t help to dwell on the past, that’s when things become overwhelming. If I’m well prepared, I can just take it all as it comes.
What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
Listen to your body, trust your intuitions, take risks and step outside of your comfort zone. Never be afraid to make mistakes, as that’s how we learn.
Quick fire
Favourite food: Dark chocolate.
Go-to comfort meal: Sunday roast – chicken with potato, veges, gravy and all the trimmings.
Favourite travel destination: Queenstown is one of my favourite spots; we often go skiing there. I also love New York, it’s like this giant concrete jungle of dreams.
Top workout essentials: Good music – I love R&B, Sam Smith and Justin Bieber. Great exercise gear is also important; if you look good you work out better!
Hardest workout you’ve done: Skipping class! It’s high energy, really intense, and surprisingly complex – there’s so much to it.
Favourite way to spend a weekend: Going to one of my favourite cafés for breakfast, going to the beach, catching up with a friend and going for a massage.
Words: Sara Bunny
