HOLISTIC "HEALTH"

I am a practitioner of Holistic Health. I take an integrated approach to my health and fitness. Looking at myself from a holistic or whole person perspective and improving my health from the cellular level out. I seek lasting results that go beyond physical appearance. I specialize in Functional Strength Training, Yoga, and cardiovascular fitness (Zumba), which allows for a balanced fitness regiment. My weekly regiment includes functional strength training, Yoga, Pilates, and Dance.

My fitness journey started at the age of 13 as a dancer. It became obvious to me that in order to excel as a dancer I needed to cross train. So, I did what seemed appropriate at the time, I started to lift weights to gain strength, but eventually that only hindered me as a dancer. My muscles became tighter, and injuries followed.  I realized very quickly that lifting weights may be the ideal fitness style for some people, but it did not help me reach my fitness goals. As a dancer I went through years of not liking my weight, and feeling fat. I did everything I could to lose weight, short of starving myself. I sought nutritionists, and various doctors, but it wasn’t until 10 years later that I realized that I had to approach my health and fitness from a holistic approach in order to receive the lasting results I desired.

After a number of injuries, and various unsuccessful diets that kept my weight on a roller coaster ride, I joined a YMCA where I took my first Yoga class. It was through Yoga I was introduced to inner peace with oneself. I started to like myself at any weight. I started to see a change in my body after three weeks, and slowly my weight started to drop, and chronic injuries I had been dealing with for years started to heal. This enlightenment began my holistic health journey. It wasn’t until two years later I found out I was Gluten Sensitive (Severe cause known as Celiac Disease). This was one of the main reasons for my inability to lose, and maintain my weight. Although I had a healthy diet, it was filled with wheat, barley, and rye products, I constantly felt bloated, and weighted down. I know now that my digestive system was unable to process the food I was taken in, so it was being stored as fat. This came from self-discovery, not a doctor.

My philosophy is:

Take a progressive and integrated approach to health and fitness. One size does not fit all. You have to discover what works for your body on every level (Physically, Mentally, Spiritually).

We all need to move, so try different fitness styles, and see which one works best on your body. Chose a fitness program that is going to give you the results you are looking for. If you desire to build mass then maybe lifting weights is right for you. If you desire toned lean muscles maybe functional training, yoga, or pilates will give you the results you desire. You have to explore these things to find out, so get moving!

We all need to eat. Exercise is not enough. You have to understand proper nutrition, and eating right for your overall health, not just to lose weight. Seeking a nutritionist is a good first step, but remember just because something is classified as a healthy food choice that doesn’t mean it is good for you (Read Eat Right 4 Your Blood Type by:Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo). You can’t simply lose weight to get healthy; you have to get healthy to lose weight.

We are all Unique. My holistic approach to health and fitness centers around the idea that we are all unique. Finding a fitness program and eating regimen that works for you is key to having lasting results that helps you as an individual reach your health and fitness goals.

To start your journey of self-discovery I encourage you to join a fitness center that offers a variety of fitness programs (Weight Training, Wellness classes like Yoga and Pilates, and Group Fitness Classes, etc.). If a monthly membership is not in your budget you can create a home fitness center for yourself, by purchasing a couple fitness DVD’s that will lead you through some great exercises, or just visit my YouTube channel for great ideas. There is nothing stopping you from starting your journey toward a healthier you, but YOU!

For more information on Celiac Disease: http://www.everydayhealth.com/info/v1/gluten-sensitivity-testing

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