Best Friend Ever

Actress-comedian Rachael Harris on sensible eating, cheating with chocolate and self restraint By Mark Ariel Photograph by Rob McEwan

Smart, funny and attractive, it’s virtually impossible not to fall in love with actress-comedian Rachael Harris. You’ve seen her great comedic acting skills in actor-director Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries, you’ve watched her poke good natured fun at other celebs on VH1’s I Love the ‘80s, I Love the ‘90s, and Best Week Ever, you’ve seen her hilarious stints on the Daily Show, and somehow - in your head - you feel like she’s one of your best friends.

Born in Worthington, Ohio, Harris moved to LA, where she studied and majored in theater. She then performed with the Los Angeles improvisation troupe, Groundlings. She debuted on television in a 1993 episode of SeaQuest DSV. After an appearance on Star Trek: Voyager in 1997, Harris went on to a recurring role in The WB’s Sister, Sister. Other television credits include a stint as a correspondent for The Daily Show’s 2002-2003 season, as well as roles on The Sarah Silverman Program, Reno 911!, The West Wing, Friends, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Monk, and Desperate Housewives. Harris played the supporting role of Kevyn Shecket, Kirstie Alley’s personal makeup artist, on the Showtime series Fat Actress. She played Cooper in the ABC sitcom Notes from the Underbelly. Her film credits include roles in Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, For Your Consideration, Starsky & Hutch, Kicking & Screaming, and Daddy Day Care. In the 2009 comedy The Hangover she plays Melissa, girlfriend to Ed Helms. In 2010, she played Greg’s mom in the film Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

In the health arena, Harris follows the “everything in moderation” mode. “While I don’t follow a specific diet, I try to follow a few basic rules,” Harris tells LA Health News. “I eat lean protein, veggies, and light carbs… I don’t believe in eliminating carbs completely from your diet, but I keep the intake low. For example today for lunch, I had a mixed green salad, breast of chicken, sautéed veggies and a little bit of rice. I try to keep it as healthy as possible, especially if I’m on set,” Harris reveals. However, she explains, “I don’t deprive myself of anything, if I feel like chocolate, I’ll have a few pieces. The trick is to keep it to only a few pieces. I’m pretty good with self-restraint.”

Rachel Harris: Tips to overcome stress

RUN
I try to run 6 days a week, wherever I am. Usually for about 30 minutes, in the morning before work. It clears my head and is great for relieving stress.

BREATHE
Sometimes the best thing is to sit down, and breathe. Slowly inhale through your nose, counting to five in your head. Let the air out from your mouth, counting to eight in your head as it leaves your lungs. Repeat a few times.

FRIENDS
Stay connected with friends. When I’m feeling stressed I call a friend and ask how their day is going. Listening to what’s happening in someone else’s life is a good way to overcome any momentary anxiety you may have in your own life.