HOW DO YOU DEFINE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE?
I believe a healthy lifestyle is built on nine universal pillars: nutrition, movement, rest, meaningful relationships, passion/purpose, financial and emotional health, a strong spiritual foundation and FUN! If we tend to each pillar and seek an overall balance, we will create resilience and a well-rounded life. Seek progress, not perfection.

HOW DID YOU COME TO PRACTICE IN YOUR CAREER FIELD?
I struggled with anxiety from childhood. In college, I received a lot of healing benefits from psychotherapy. In my late 20s, I discovered the power of pushing past limiting beliefs with life coaching. I’ve trained extensively in both modalities and worked in the field of mental health for 22 years. I love the process of helping people to heal, discover self-compassion and grow into their potential.

WHAT ARE YOUR PRACTICES TO KEEP YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY HEALTHY?
Moderation is the key for me, and I try to impart this wisdom to my daughter. I seek balance between work and play; striving and rest; planning ahead and being present. We eat clean (mostly organic). We exercise, have fun and pray together. Laughter is an important part of every day. You can’t laugh and be stressed at the same time!

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SELF-CARE; WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO WAY OF PRACTICING IT?
Self-care involves a balance between discipline and permission to do what feels good. Tuning in to how I’m feeling and being real about what is needed in the moment is helpful. I often ask myself (and clients): “What would self-care look like right now?”

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST HEALTH, WELLNESS TIPS?
Learn to monotask. This is another way of saying, “be present” as much as possible. When we are present with another person, it conveys “you are important.” When we are present with what we are doing, we make fewer mistakes. When we are present in our environment, we can appreciate the small wonders that surround us. Being present naturally reduces stress and anxiety and builds an attitude of gratitude.