Actress Elizabeth Lazan stays focused with Shaolin gongfu
Photo: Sharon Leisinger
Ms Lazan took ballet lessons when she was young and participated in various sports in school. At CHIJ (Katong) Primary, she ran for the school team. She also played netball for CHIJ Katong Convent. "I would train about three times a week after school," she said. "Sports was my favourite escape from studying."
She has tried Muay Thai and is now into Shaolin gongfu. A Singaporean of mixed parentage, she moved to Los Angeles about a year ago and returns here for various projects. The Fly Entertainment artist is married to Mr Ivan Lee Mora, a glass artist and designer.
Q. How important is it for you to keep up with your fitness routine?
A. It is really necessary for me, not just physically, but because I also do get impatient or restless when I have too long a lull period. I hike in a park or nature reserve as I enjoy exercising outdoors.
My fitness gear goes with me wherever I travel. I will always find a way to squeeze in a morning run or do some toning repetitions.
Q. What do you like about Shaolin gongfu?
A. I picked it up in Los Angeles, California, about a year ago and I train one-on-one with a teacher at an outdoor park.
The thing I love about it is that it combines mental and physical well-being. You learn how to stay focused and disciplined, while simultaneously training for overall health, flexibility and stamina.
Q. What is your secret to looking fabulous?
A. I truly believe that by maintaining a balanced lifestyle and healthy mind, you will have a healthy body and a healthy glow.
Photo sources: The Straits Times, My Paper, Sharon Leisinger
Q. Has there ever been a time when you were not fit and fab?
A. During my university days in Australia, I regularly ate unhealthy or fast food including pizza and pastries. Naturally, I put on weight.
I had a reality check when I returned to Singapore. I realised I had to take better care of my body and health.
Q. What is your diet like?
A. I'm always hungry. So I take many small meals throughout the day to keep my hunger in check.
I also limit my carbohydrate intake to only one meal a day as well as abstain from eating meat twice a week.
And once a week, I give myself a cheat day and have my favourite ice cream.
Q. What are your indulgences?
A. My kryptonite is definitely chocolates and cookies.
Q. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
A. I go to the beach, listen to live music, binge on Netflix or go on a hike.
I find it therapeutic to be active and be surrounded by nature. No matter how busy I get, I will always find a way to wind down with one of these activities.
Q. What are the three most important things in your life?
A. Family, friends and travelling.
Q. What's your favourite part of your body?
A. It's hard to compliment yourself but people say I have nice arms and I have to say that they are also my favourite.
My least favourite would be my ears because they stick out.