COOL AND CALM

Elaine Armstrong is the manager of the award-winning Chill Spa at the Ice House, which is located along the North Atlantic Way in Co Mayo. An experienced therapist, she joined the team in 2008, before taking on the role of spa manager in 2012 

What’s your earliest memory?

Waking up at the age of four to find a puppy in our kitchen. My sister Nicola and I were overwhelmed with excitement.

Blackie was a Jack Russell and he brought so many wonderful moments to our lives.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My family and friends – they inspire me on a daily basis without knowing it. Anyone who is positive and loves new adventures inspires me.

What was your first job?

It was in Dunnes Stores and I started on the day I turned 16. It was the week before Christmas so it was hectic, but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I believe everyone should work in retail or hospitality at some stage in their life as it teaches you to be patient and understanding.

Ideal holiday destination?

My favourite holidays are ones in the sun as I just love to relax with my family, surrounded by the sea and gorgeous scenery. I’ve been very fortunate to have travelled to many beautiful places, and have so many more on my list to see with my husband and kids or friends. Disney World in Florida and Sri Lanka are among the dream holiday destinations for us in the future.

Favourite food?

I love all food! I will try anything, apart from shellfish as I am allergic. I’m partial to a good Chinese or a Sunday carvery. I’m also a chocoholic, and can’t seem to go a day without it.

Favourite drink?

it's coffee in the morning, and then cups of tea throughout the day. I also love a glass of white wine or a G&T. I need to learn to drink more water and less caffeine.

‘I believe everyone should work in retail or hospitality at some stage in their life as it teaches you to be patient and understanding’

How do you relax?

I find a walk in the woods or on the beach very therapeutic. There are so many beautiful walks and places to see where I live in the west of Ireland. I love the feeling I get after any form of exercise. Coffee with friends is another way I relax and forget what’s going on around me, along with plenty of spa days of course.

What was the last great film or series you watched?

I absolutely loved Emily in Paris. I bingewatched it over Christmas and adored the fashion and the drama. I hope there’s another season.

Dream dinner party guest/guests (alive or dead)?

My dream dinner party would be with my grandmother Patsy, who was also one of my godparents. She sadly passed away

suddenly in May 2021; I would love to hear her laugh, and talk about the old days again as she had some funny stories to tell. She was a character, who I miss dearly. I'd also enjoy a dinner party with Kevin Hart, who is my favourite comedian.

Do you cook and, if so, do you have a signature recipe?

I love to cook something special for my family on my days off –I do a great roast or a Thai curry.

Best piece of advice you've ever received?

Live in the moment and do not take life too seriously.

Best piece of advice you've ever given?

Be happy, kind and maybe a little more selfish. As humans, we tend to worry about others, which is our nature, but sometimes we need to put ourselves first.

Have you learned any valuable lessons from the pandemic?

Family is everything and I don’t appreciate them enough sometimes. I’ve learned that I am so lucky to have a wonderful family who loves and always supports me. The pandemic has also taught me to stress a little less and not to overthink situations.

Favourite thing about yourself?

I like that I am an outgoing, independent and driven person, who always looks for opportunities to upskill and better myself.

What’s the one beauty product you can't live without?

A good brow pomade, especially one that doesn’t dry out.

What, if anything, would you tell your 16-year-old self?

Don’t stress the small stuff; be happy, try to live in the moment and take each day as it comes.