Wellness Shouldn't Be Complicated (but it can be)!

I remember my first time taking an exercise (Zumba) class after becoming a wheelchair user. I called the gym first because I didn’t want the instructor to be caught off guard. As I rolled into that class, I felt awkward and clunky and out of place. I almost rolled out and back home (until the instructor saw me). She was smiling and bubbly and honestly the reason I didn’t roll myself right back to my safety zone at home.  

I rolled myself into the corner, carefully avoiding all mirrors.  My new overly happy, bubbly, and enthusiastic instructor insisted I come out of the corner. I wouldn’t suggest telling anyone what they should do, but in this instance, it changed me.  For the first time I saw myself enjoying fitness classes again.  

The music, the movement, the sweat and sensations of working hard lifted my spirits in a way that I forgot about all the trauma that had led to me being there in that moment.  I forgot about how disappointed and frustrated I was with my healthcare and enjoyed the moment.

I’d like to say I never got anxious or cried during class again, but that is not my story (insert smiley emoji). Songs like “I Wanna Dance Again” brought crocodile tears the first few times I danced to them.  Now I dance to that song with happiness. Not at what I lost, but out of happiness that yes, I AM dancing!

I know what its like to struggle with my health, have more pounds on my body than I wanted, and not knowing how to meet the goals my doctors had for me (lose weight, prevent diabetes, lower blood pressure/cholesterol/etc). I needed to change my eating habits and figure out how to move my body in a way that got me breathing hard and feeling sweaty!

I have been a registered dietitian for 25 years, a fitness instructor for 10 years (5 years before injury, 5 years post injury), a wheelchair user for 17 years, and my mission is to help you feel good in the body you have.  If you are looking for an inclusive approach to health, I hope you’ll try a Zumba class or nutrition course, or talk with me for a free 15 minute nutrition call.

Try out a Zumba class or nutrition consult today!