LIZZY’S WELLNESS JOURNEY

WHAT IS THE “WHY” BEHIND THE HEALTHY CHANGES YOU HAVE MADE? WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO CHANGE?

My profession as a nurse has exposed me to the effect of unhealthy lifestyle on mortality and morbidity. I have firsthand knowledge of how diabetes can cut short an individual’s life. With the risk factors for chronic diseases, I knew that there are some factors that are outside of my control and that there are some factors that are within my control. I made changes to my lifestyle to exercise some control over the risk factors for chronic conditions.

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME AND WHAT HAS MADE YOU SUCCESSFUL?

One of the obstacles that I constantly have to deal with is the reluctance to get up and get out of the house to walk. I overcome this by reminding myself that the day usually drags when I do not exercise.

WHAT IS YOUR NUTRITION SECRET?

I plan meals around the food that I love. It’s important for me to eat the foods that I grew up with. To get enough vegetables, I make them into smoothies. I learned some of the ideas that I use from the meal prep session that we have had at THA. I avoid white bread, rice and pasta.

WHAT IS YOUR FITNESS SECRET?

I am an early riser and it makes sense for me to start my fitness journey early. Before the pandemic, I went to the gym early in the morning. I sometimes used the gym at THA. Since I am not comfortable going to the gym at this time, I am walking consistently. I find that walking does the dual job of helping me to keep fit but also to declutter my mind and prepare for the day.

WHAT ROLE HAS YOUR EHG HEALTH COACH AND EHG PLAYED IN YOUR WELLNESS JOURNEY?

My health coach was in support of the personal goals that I set for myself. She helped me in identifying goals that fit my lifestyle and desires and she encouraged me to work towards those goals. She cheered me on as I made progress and motivated me to continue.