INSTYLE
Life certainly looks a little different these days for Elyse Knowles. We first fell in love with the bubbly InStyle cover star when she appeared alongside partner Josh Barker on hit reality series, The Block, where they took out the title on its 13th season. Knowles has since become a firm fixture on Australia's fashion scene, landing a role with iconic retail giant Myer, and cemented herself as a loud voice on sustainable and eco-friendly living.
Now tucked away on the sunny shores of Byron Bay with her dogs Isla and Harlow, we caught up with the 27-year-old model to chat through what's been keeping her sane and motivated during these times.
What Are You Reading At The Moment?
A lot of cookbooks! Teresa Cutter (The Healthy Chef), is the book I currently have on the go. She includes so many yummy, healthy recipes.
I’m also reading Waste Not, which is a wonderful book all about preventing household waste. It’s definitely a subject I feel passionate about learning more about.
What Are You Watching?
I’m watching Jamie Oliver on YouTube over and over! I’m a little obsessed with cooking at the moment. Jamie has some really delicious, easy recipes that are packed with flavour and nutrients. Watching his clips is a fun way to learn about his cooking styles and techniques. It just makes the process a little more interesting.
What Are You Listening To?
My current Spotify playlists are; Just Chill and Chilled Afternoon. I’m all about having a little sing-a-long in the kitchen while I’m cooking dinner. I have a candle burning and I watch the sun setting through the window. I also love Fisher’s, Wanna go Dancin’ - it’s perfect for a good sweat session.
What Have You Been Scrolling Through?
I’ve been scrolling through workout gear of late. I’m loving working out at home at the moment and I need to add a few more challenges to my routine and kit. Things like a slam ball to keep it interesting!
I’ve also discovered a new web directory called, The World’s Most Rubbish. The platform is a really interesting way to discover companies in Australia and around the world who are operating in the eco-friendly space. The directory is growing by the week. I’d highly recommend it for businesses who are in need ideas in terms of “going green,” and becoming more sustainable in their day-to-day operations.
Myer is a website I visit frequently, especially now as they’re having some ripper sales! My growing cooking obsession has led me to invest in big steel pots that I can use to make delicious veggie pies, bread and so many other amazing meals. I recently treated myself to a Kitchenaid Mixer, which has eliminated so much kitchen mess which is a huge plus. It’s so much fun to use when cooking!
Last by not least, I’ve really enjoyed scrolling through Nat Kelly’s Instagram. She’s taught me a lot about sustainability and ethical standards which I’ve found really interesting. Nat’s infectious enthusiasm and motivation keep me forever inspired.
What Are You Wearing While At Home?
It’s still really warm during the day in Byron, so the morning I’m usually in my gym shorts, a sports bra and a loose singlet. I then change into swimmers for a walk and dip with the dogs. Next up is a pair of denim shorts usually paired with a rocker tee or a floaty dress.
I’ve also spent a lot of time in the garden, where I get extremely dirty! If I’m gardening I’ll throw on old clothes that I don’t care about too much. Ripping out old palm trees is not an occasion to wear something new and pretty - let me assure you!
How Are You Keeping Fit?
Yes, it’s quite different but I am so lucky to live in a place like Byron where I can still go outside, be in the warm weather and exercise during this challenging time. I usually go to the gym every day but that’s obviously on pause for a while. My girlfriend Saskia and I have been coming up with daily workouts. We each do them at our homes and check-in afterwards to see how we went! It’s nice knowing we are doing the same thing. It keeps us motivated and holds us accountable.
We really try and mix it up, so our bodies get that same level of challenge and intensity they usually would at a gym. We go between weight training, boxing, bodyweight sessions and cardio. I monitor my heart rate during the workout so I can make sure I’m pushing myself hard enough.
On top of this, I walk the dogs every day at the beach and have a swim while I’m there. The dogs have always kept me fit as they require a lot of exercise. Rain, hail or shine I have to get them outside running or swimming, otherwise, they go mad and our home gets destroyed.
How Have You Been Staying Physically And Mentally Healthy During This Time?
Throughout this period, I’ve just tried to think as positively as possible. There is so much sadness circulating the world right now as families are having to endure devastating losses in more ways than one. My heart goes out to everyone who is suffering. I wish for this pandemic to find it’s way out of our lives so that good health can be fully restored. On this note - I’d like to thank all of the medical staff who are risking their lives each and every day for the benefit of the wider community. You are simply heroes.
Staying mentally well for me personally also means talking to friends and family every day. Checking in with them and having a chat can make me feel a lot calmer. Exercise is a huge must for me! This paired with staying healthy by eating local, nutritious food is a great day to get through each day. An endorphin hit, along with giving your immune system a big boost of nutrients each day is something I’d encourage everyone to get into the habit of.
Lastly, I’ve found that refocusing my mind on hobbies & activities that’d I forgotten about, to be a really nice way to feel happy. Even just playing music and burning oils to fill the house with a beautiful scent, can brighten my mood. Sometimes it’s the smallest of things that can rebalance our mind-frame.
What Have You Learnt Throughout All This?
To really appreciate the small things in life. It’s been so nice to have the time for the hobbies that I’d been pushing aside because I didn't have time. Pottery, cooking, reading about even more ways to protect our earth.
I’ve reflected a lot on my health, both physical and mental. Our body is our precious temple. It’s times like these that remind us how vital it is to look after ourselves in every possible way. And of course, I’ve reflected on my wonderful family and friends. Not being able to see them, hug them, high five them…it’s reminded me how time with family and friends is such a special part of our lives.