Interview with Lorraine Toner, Irish Cancer Society

Last week I interviewed Lorraine Toner for her tips about minding your mind. Lorraine is a very busy lady. She is a Community Fundraiser, Mid-West Region with the Irish Cancer Society, a local Zumba teacher, involved with the Mayo Athletic Club and makes time for family and friends.
Lorraine is someone who thrives under a little pressure. She says good organising and time management is her key to staying on top of things. She uses IT, such as her phone’s calendar, to manage her busy life.
Through awareness Lorraine knows when she’s stressed and needs a time-out to refocus. When she feels tired, is unable to focus or even feels forgetful, she knows it’s time to take some self-care action. Lorraine minds her mind by talking to her husband, family and friends, and she takes an hour to exercise by herself. Running or swimming by herself for an hour is a way Lorraine refocuses her energy. She also says it’s important to have something to look forward to.
I asked Lorraine what advice she would give to herself three years ago. Her answer is something we all can practice, we can’t be everything to everyone. It’s good to be realistic about what we can offer and try to manage people’s expectations. Celebrate the small wins. Every little achievement adds to the bigger target.
To attend a Mind Your Mind workshop on mental health contact Tracy from Relax From Stress Holistic Centre on 086-2202734 or visit www.relaxfromstress.ie.
Published in Connaught Telegraph newspaper on 13 June 2017