My own colorful story began back in my early 20’s. My lack of self awareness was hidden behind a knowledge of bodywork and healing arts. I immersed myself in a Massage Therapy practice that spanned over 20 years, working in several luxury, high end spas spanning 5 states across the country. I loved my career, but the bigger, deeper call to “be more” never left me.
You know that feeling? That nagging feeling that won’t let go.
In my late 30’s I was at a major turning point- I decided to go back to college. There, I studied Recreation Therapy, focusing on military mental health. This helped quell the desire to do more, but even then, I knew. I just wasn’t the healthiest me I could be.
Something was still missing.
From a professional standpoint, I had risen from the ashes into great success. I had comeback from a painful divorce and heartbreak, significant weight gain, and a several years long perpetual dark night of the soul. Going back to school helped me remember that I am smart, that learning comes easy to me, and that I really enjoy speaking and teaching other people.
From a wellness standpoint though, I wasn’t so successful. My physical health was waning- I was drinking way more than was good for me, way too often. While I was engaging in some steady exercise and keeping active, I was inconsistent with a routine. Exercise was more like a chore that became daunting- the only reason to do it was to lose weight.
In fact, I was obsessed with how to lose the 30 lbs I had packed on in my late 20’s; obsessed to the point of starving myself with a mere 500 calorie a day HCG regimen. I tried everything to beat the system and trick my body into dropping the weight- You name it, I’ve done it. Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Atkins, Keto, The Zone, hot yoga, hot pilates, running, spinning, weight training, Noom and Lumen (more on that later). I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve “started over”, only to find myself “failing” at yet another program, just a few weeks into it.
Let me just save you a whole lot of time and effort- that’s not how it works.
It’s taken time and patience with myself- another learned skill. Now I’m 50 years into it and I think I’m finally getting the hang of it! My vision for Mind Body Wellness is to combine my life experiences and passion for helping others and use it as a guide for you.
It’s truly a never ending process! I’ve had over 25 years of trial and error- I can honestly say, it was worth every moment. It’s an honor to have you here in the Mind Body Wellness community- I can’t wait to see how you grow!