As someone who has been dieting for as long as I can remember, I have learned what works and what doesn’t. One lesson I have learned is DIETS DON’T WORK. Diets are short term plans for weight loss, but are usually not sustainable. Over the last 2 decades my weight has fluctuated as I have tried so many “fad” diets, from detox shakes, to Atkins, to diet pills and I have also had issues with binge eating. It was really tough, and I struggled. I hated looking in the mirror and weighing myself, and I had serious body image issues. It took me a long time to begin to love myself at my size, and I am still on that journey today.
Also, diabetes and hypertension runs in my family, and I realized I needed to make significant changes in my lifestyle in order to stay HEALTHY. It was really hard, as a child, McDonalds was a consistent force in our house, so were desserts, sweets, and delicious Caribbean food with LOT OF RICE! It’s hard breaking habits that you’ve become so accustomed to, but I knew I had to make a change.
I started to live a healthier lifestyle, as opposed to just going on another diet. Diets are temporary, lifestyle changes are sustainable. I love working out, lifting weights, trying new routines and cooking. I also love talking to people about what I do and how they can also live a healthy life
When I started working out, I hated going to the gym!!! But I absolutely loved the at home workout programs Beachbody provided! I didn’t know I could get in shape in the comfort of my own home! These programs, coupled with proper nutrition and supplements, such as the superfood protein meal replacement shake Shakeology, helped me reach my goals. I started to feel different. I didn’t mind looking in the mirror anymore, I didn’t mind taking pictures, I started to feel a bit more confident again. And even when I have a bad day (or a cheeseburger, lol- hey, we have to live a little), I know that it’s okay to treat myself every once in a while. Because I made lifestyle changes, I know I will continue to perform those positive health behaviors that will keep me healthy, even if I have a cheat meal. I will not beat myself up or have one moment set me back. I have developed a level of confidence that will continue to drive me and motivate me to stay positive and continue to work for the healthy and fit life I know I deserve. If I can do it, anyone can!!
As I continued my education in public health and health education, I worked with clients who had diabetes and hypertension and helped them live a healthier lifestyle. This is when I really learned that there are 3 crucial elements to developing and sustaining a healthy lifestyle: 1.) Physical activity, 2.) Nutrition, 3.) Support. These are the elements that I needed in order to make sustainable changes, and as a health coach, I help clients incorporate these into their lives.
I want to help you become the best version of yourself.