Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill on the ‘heartbreak’ of leaving her child to compete and the power of working mums

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “In an athletic context, you’re so determined and focussed anyway, but chuck in being a mum and all that extra motivation – and it’s like next level,” she says. “Health is such an important part of being a good parent,” she continues, and mums often don’t have enough time to really care for themselves. “So many mums forget about actually looking after themselves and the basics – because you just want to give all your energy to your child.” But Ennis-Hill says she realised: “I’ve got to be at my healthiest, I’ve got to be feeling as good as possible, because these children rely on me to be at my best as well.” And she’s adamant mums shouldn’t feel guilty about taking time out to look after themselves. “And having times where you’re able to switch off, step away and come back, means you’re a refreshed and energised mum again.” Jennis – the hormone intelligence app founded by Olympic Champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill – costs £9.99 a month after a 7-day free trial or £99.99 for 12 months.