Róisín fulfils ambitions in her first book

Róisín fulfils ambitions in her first book

16 April 2025

AN inspiring Downpatrick woman is celebrating the launch of her first book.

Losing My Mind, Mindfully has been written by Róisín Erskine and tells the story of her ten-year journey through meditation practices.

Róisín, who lives in Downpatrick with her husband, James, and son, Egan, says writing the book is the fulfilment of a long-time ambition.

She says it came to fruition “rather organically” following a series of challenging and transformative life events. 

Ultimately the book is a tale of intimacy, hope and infinite potential. It brings readers on a journey from the mundane to the awe-inspiring, from loss, grief and devastation to growth, joy and renewal.  

This creative, non-fiction memoir challenges today’s definitions of happiness, comfort and contentment.

It will appeal to a broad range of readers, those who are new to or are well-versed in meditation and mindfulness, those interested in learning more about personal development and holistic wellness, and those who love to get lost in stories about adventure, love and loss.  

Speaking about her joy in becoming a published author while celebrating her 40th birthday, Róisín said: “Writing this book has been a massive ambition of mine for quite some time.

“It has prompted me to reflect on my life’s journey thus far and recognise the amazing transformations that I have experienced. 

“The greatest challenge of the entire process was overcoming self-doubt and handing over my manu.

“It was a good opportunity for me to practice the art of surrender. As with any art form, once it is released, the artist no longer has a say in how it is interpreted.” 

Completing any project of this scale can feel like a daunting task and Róisín has shared some helpful advice for aspiring authors.

 “When things get hard, have a rest – don’t quit,” she said. “Sometimes the most productive thing you can do when the road ahead seems endless is to take a break. Time has a wonderful way of working things out, and you can come back to your project fresh and newly inspired.” 

Friend and mentor Marie Quail  said of Róisín’s accomplishment: “Her journey is nothing short of amazing and one that only a brave heart would embark on.

“With stories woven together over a ten-year period, this book makes for an interesting read, but more importantly, it serves as a practical and pragmatic tool to inspire and invigorate.”

Róisín describes herself as a “wife, mother, life-long learner and creative, with a love of adventure, travel and all things that afford room for stretch and relaxation”.  

It was Róisín’s early work with marginalised communities in post-conflict Northern Ireland that fuelled her desire to train in and delve deep into the benefits of alternative healing and therapeutic modalities.  

Now as an experienced yoga and mindfulness teacher it is her wish to share her insights of mindful living and dispel the myth that it requires a monastic lifestyle. Mindfulness can be adapted to fit and greatly enhance our daily lives. 

From an early age, Roisin said she has always sought to express herself and support others through the arts. She is a talented musician, textile artist, festival decorator and has performed as a children’s entertainer, clown and even as a fire eater.  

In more recent years, she has created and delivered a variety of wellness workshops at various festivals throughout the UK, continuing to nurture and inspire others to learn and grow on a deeper level. 

She said: “After launching my debut book, I was ready to feel proud but was not prepared for the overwhelming love and support I have received from family and friends and my editor, June Russell-Alexandar of Russell-Alexandar Publishing. 

“I am fortunate to have received funding from Newry, Mourne and Down Council, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, as well as the Go Succeed programme, to complete this project.” 

“Now that I know I can do it, I am already looking forward to starting my next book which recount my most exciting adventures taking part in the Mongol Rally back in 2013.” 

Róisín is selling signed copies of her book after her yoga classes, which run locally every Monday at the award-winning BallyBurren Outdoor Escapes, near Ballynahinch. The book is also available to purchase directly from Roisin’s website, at roisinerskine.com, or on Amazon.