Be True to You

This is the recent article I wrote for the newsletter at work. Enjoy!

I had the privilege of going to a conference this past week that focused body image, self esteem and other women’s issues with a focus on exercise and nutrition. It was fascinating stuff, and scary at the same time. As a mother, I often worry that my daughter will grow up being consumed with the way she looks and feel like she needs to look a certain way to fit into society. The media doesn’t help at all and many of these expectations that we see on tv and in magazines of how women look are not realistic or even possible in a healthy way.

As a personal trainer and nutrition specialist, I also worry about my clients. While I as a professional trainer, want you to be healthy—workout and eat a nutritious diet—I know that none of us want you to become unrealistic with your expectations for yourself or your body. Remember that all of are different in our biology, our lifestyles and interests. Remember that you should enjoy what you are doing and what you are eating. If you don’t enjoy it, then you won’t stick with it. Fitness and overall wellness should be balanced, and you should something that you enjoy! This is where I encourage you to try new things. Try a new class. Try personal training or give nutrition counseling a try to learn about how healthy eating CAN become a lifestyle change and not a diet.

The biggest thing I got out of this conference that I want to pass on to all of you is to not be afraid to be proud of yourself, be kind to yourself and say something positive about yourself today, and every day. YOU are worth it!

Check out Dove's campaign for real beauty HERE... truely inspiring stuff!