What inspired you to become a Health Coach, was it through personal experience?
How do you think a Health Coach could have helped you on your journey?
I think that a Health Coach would have saved me frustration and the feeling of isolation one feels when they are trying to achieve new health goals. Knowing someone is in your corner can make a big difference in achieving success. My job afforded me the opportunity to study and learn about health, which was a wonderful bonus, not everyone has that opportunity. That is another reason why a health coach can be a great partnership for change, they can bring resources to the client that is pertinent and helpful.
Change is hard and can feel overwhelming. Having someone to support your goals, encourage you through your struggles, and provide you with personalized resources can be a real attribute to achieving long-lasting change.
Are you certified in any other area and what do you specialize in?
I have had the privilege to obtain several certifications from different organizations. I am certified as a Health Coach through the American Council of Exercise as well as the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. I have special certifications in Hormone Health, Plant-Based Nutrition, Nutrition Educator, Master Gardener, RX Cooking, and Plant-Based Cooking. Currently, I am working on certification as a Weight Loss Specialist and Board Certification for the International Consortium for Health & Wellness Coaching.
What is your coaching style?
I like to think that I meet people where they are. Everyone deserves an equal opportunity for support and achievement of wellness goals. I look to see the person, as a valuable individual, not the issues they may or may not have. I enjoy in-person meetings, but there is value found in online, virtual, and phone coaching as well.
We know you offer one-on-one and group cooking classes, what other services do you offer your clients?
What’s the best piece of health advice that you’ve ever received?
I think the best piece of health advice I ever received came from a very fit and fabulous friend of mine. I have known her for almost 20 years now, and all that time she has maintained her health without ever seeming to be fanatical about it. Part of the coaching training is to find people who are doing what you want to achieve and then asking them how they make it happen.
So, many years ago, I approached her and asked how she stayed in shape and found the time and motivation to exercise consistently. She told me that she thinks of exercise as a necessary task, just like brushing your teeth. You don’t think about it, you just put it into your day, do it, and get on with your day. Exercise, to her, was body maintenance. I really liked the simplicity of that thinking. Anyone can approach exercise and lifestyle like that, not with the mindset that, ‘I have to do it perfectly or be the best’, but rather with the mindset of, ‘this keeps my body working and allows me to accomplish things throughout my day’.
Who inspires you?
So many people! My close girlfriends who choose to make good decisions regarding their health and lifestyle, they encourage me to keep on keeping on! My daughters, who are always looking for ways to improve themselves, with a vigor for life! My clients, who show up and do the hard work of facing themselves, their struggles, fears, and habits. The other health care providers in my community who show the heart of compassion and care to people in order to help them be their best selves. Some of the doctors and professionals that I admire are Dr. Joel Fuhrman, Michael Pollan, Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Michael Greger, Dr. Christiane Northrup, and John C. Maxwell.
What are 3 self-help books you would recommend?
Do you have anything exciting coming up you would like to share with us?
This summer/fall I will be sharing live cooking segments on how to prepare Alaska Grown Vegetables on my Facebook page. Nourished Health Coaching Services and Live Breathe Alaska
I will also be starting a new Fresh Start group coaching program in August. With the health concerns of the nation and the coronavirus, in-person cooking classes are still on hold. That being said, I will probably be offering virtual cooking classes in August. I send out a newsletter bi-weekly with upcoming classes, recipes, and nutrition tips. Anyone interested in receiving the newsletter can send me an email and I will add you to the list! www.nourishedak.com
