How did lifestyle changes improve my health?
My wellness journey started 28 years ago with my father’s health struggles and evolved with my own health troubles. When my father had an unexpected open-heart surgery at age 40, it ignited a burning desire within me to prevent it from happening again. I clearly remember begging him to stick to the lifestyle recommendations of his doctor. We changed our lifestyle as a family, he stuck to the recommendations, and thankfully today, he is a happy and healthy grandfather.
I, on the other hand, had my own challenges along the way. I have had chronic itchiness for many years and had gestational diabetes during both pregnancies.
When I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, I was told my diet would determine the health of my babies. I was trained at the Diabetes Center of the hospital where I gave birth and learned about the carbohydrate value of almost everything I ate. Pricking my finger 4-7 times a day, I saw the difference every bite and insulin injection made in my blood sugar levels. I gave my body what it needed, listened to the warning signs, and thankfully gave birth to two healthy babies. Meanwhile, I had no idea this experience was just the beginning of my nutrition education.
The chronic itchiness I have had since age 15 has been trickier for me. It worsened significantly in the last three years, to the point of needing medicine every day and still losing sleep some nights. Recently, I did some research and with a low histamine diet, I was able to lower my medication by 50% within a month. Today, my itchiness is still not completely resolved, and I keep on exploring different possibilities. But, what matters is that consistent small steps get me closer to my goals.
Lastly, making some changes in reducing my stress levels improved my life considerably. A few years ago, I was excited to finally have some freedom when both my children were at school for the first time. I found myself overscheduling my days until one day, I got into a serious accident and life made me take a break. A garbage truck hit me from the side of my car and miraculously, I didn’t even have a scratch. It was a loud warning sign and I listened. The Covid lockdown that followed the accident made it easier for me to slow down, quiet my mind and look within. Gradually, through meditation, journaling, self-care, and nature walks, I found more balance in my life. My relationships improved, I felt more joy, calm, and peace. I was finally able to hear my inner voice.
It is that same inner voice that brought me to IIN to get my health coaching certificate to realize my calling to help women find long-term health and happiness.
I am so passionate about showing you your inner power to transform your life and committed to helping you experience the same joy I have found in my journey.