FIVE QUESTIONS is where we ask members of the community to talk about how they stay HEALTHY. Michele Simpson says: “To do my job (as a bereavement nurse) well, and to be able to support these women, it’s crucial that I am in a good headspace and stay healthy”.

1. What did you eat yesterday?

I went out for breakfast and dinner and had my usual avo toast, and my favorite Thai for dinner. 

2. What exercise did you do yesterday?

For the past ten years, I have been seeing a personal trainer with a wonderful small group of 50 plus year-olds. We meet once a week and since Covid we exercise in a local park. I look forward to it each week, not just for the exercise but the social connection. I also walk down to the beach most days. 

3. When did you last see a primary health professional?

I last saw my GP only a few weeks ago to review my annual blood tests. I have been working hard to reduce my cholesterol and HbA1 C which I did. She congratulated me and really motivated me to keep at it. 

4. What do you do to improve your mental health?

Over the 42 years I have worked as a nurse and midwife I have picked up some good self-care habits. But it has taken me a while to realize that like our mobile phones, it’s better to recharge them a little each day rather than waiting for the battery to go entirely flat.

I’m fortunate to work within a wonderful supportive medical and midwifery team and cannot do my job as a bereavement midwife alone. I share the role with another midwife (Jo) and we make sure that we include lots of laughter in our day when we do get to work together.

I have a few midwifery roles which make my work life more fun. I have a draw full of aromatherapy which I use to help me to relax, and I practice lots of deep breathing in between calls to bereaved parents. I am constantly inspired by their strength and resilience in their darkest times, and I draw on their strength to put my own personal issues into perspective.

I have a ritual at the end of my workday. I mindfully turn off my computer, the lights and shut the door. Take a big breath and mindfully leave my work behind. I have become a pleasure seeker and spending time with my friends and family and having fun are my priorities as well as exercise, travel, taking regular holidays and I always have a good book to read at night in bed. I sleep much better now that I have a rule not to check work emails before bed. 

Knowing that I can help make even a little difference in a woman’s journey as a bereaved mum, or a mum is hugely satisfying. To do my job well and to be able to support these women, it’s crucial that I am in a good headspace. 

5. What are your health goals for the next month?

Given it’s a new year, I will answer this question like anyone else this time of year. Lose weight, exercise more, do more yoga and keep laughing! 

Read previous ‘FIVE QUESTIONS’ here