Spotlight Q&A: Rachel Kelly

andy.walton
Jul 30, 2017 · 3 min read
Rachel Kelly: writer, journalist and mental health campaigner

Rachel is a prominent progressive voice within the media, working tirelessly to challenge mental health stigma and campaign for real change.

She is a writer, journalist and mental health campaigner, boasting some exceptional bestselling books on recovery and mental wellbeing including her latest offering, the acclaimed Happy Kitchen.

In her inspirational book Rachel shares her personal experience of harnessing the power of food to stay calm and well.

NowandAfterwards caught up with Rachel for the Spotlight Q&A series.

What are the goals for the project?

To spread the word through my book The Happy Kitchen: Good Mood Food that we can eat for happiness and that nutrition affects our mental health.

The Happy Kitchen by Rachel Kelly

What motivates you?

Sharing what I’ve been lucky enough to learn from others.

How do you find inspiration?

Thanks to feedback when others tell me my books or workshops have helped them.

How do you maintain balance?

With difficulty. My dog Sammy helps! So too does eating a Good Mood Food diet.

How do you relax?

Gardening. Reading.

How do organise your time?

I have regular days, and keep to a timetable set by school runs either side of my working life. Ideally I keep the evenings free for relaxation.

What was the turning point to how you viewed mental health?

When I realised I could help myself.

How do you deal with ‘what if’ and ‘should have’ thoughts if they play on your mind?

I use breathing exercises to be present in the moment.

When you feel overwhelmed what do you do to cope?

Have a bath with Epsom Salts for magnesium and put my head under the water and breathe.

What is your favourite form of relaxation?

Outside it would be gardening or walking the dog. Inside it would be reading or learning a poem.

When was the last time you got involved in a new hobby? what was it and how did it benefit your wellbeing?

I’ve just learnt how to make kefir. It has helped my wellbeing because it’s fun, it’s a probiotic that helps gut health and therefore my mood, it’s cheap and it’s delicious!

What is your recommended reading to inform and inspire?

Poetry. Anything by George Herbert in particular.

Recommended websites/blogs on mental wellbeing

I like the charities I’m involved with — I’m an ambassador for Sane, Rethink and Young Minds. Welldoing.org is helpful too. And the Guardian!

Recommended movies to soothe or inspire?

I love watching box sets — the rather violent ones I’m afraid. They make me realise how lucky I am that I don’t have to deal in crystal meth…

With thanks to Rachel Kelly.

To find out more about her fantastic work visit www.rachel-kelly.net.

Spotlight Q&A is shining a light on the projects and people helping to make mental wellbeing part of everyday conversation. NowandAfterwards will be posting a new Q&A every week. For more information or to nominate yourself or others please visit Spotlight Q&A.

andy.walton

Written by

Writing about anxiety from a personal and professional perspective. Mental Health Nurse based in North East England. Founder of Swirlzine.com

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