Health coach’s guide to wellness in new year

January 2, 2019 | 3:01 am

Updated January 2, 2019 | 7:07 am

Graphic by Owensboro Times | Photo by Bruce Mars

The beginning of a new year brings endless commercials from companies promising a “new you.” The focus on weight loss is a billion dollar industry and consumers are eager to find the latest product to help with losing a few pounds.

But health and wellness is much more than weight loss, it’s about your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being. Being a healthy weight is important, but it’s also important to recognize the needs of your whole self.

Here are health and wellness tips from Certified Health Coach Amy Martin that will help to keep you focused on meeting your goals for a better you in the new year.

If it’s been a while since your last check-up, schedule an appointment with a medical doctor. Having a baseline for your heart, weight and cholesterol levels gives you a better idea of the intensity of exercise to engage in and how to change your diet.

Find a certified health coach to help you set realistic goals. Many people set long-term goals, but don’t forget to set short-term goals along the way.

Small victories are important to keep you on track. A health coach serves as an educator and a coach to partner with you on your health and wellness journey. Health coaches can be found working as independent contractors or in hospitals, gyms or through insurance providers. To find a health coach in your area, visit acefitness.org

Commit to being active at a work. Employers are recognizing the benefits of healthier employees and should encourage walking more and sitting less.

Practice deep breathing, meditation or prayer to relieve stress, clear your mind of negative thoughts, to give thanks or express your needs to a higher power. It’s important for your overall wellbeing to do this daily.

Do functional activities that you enjoy. Activities such as gardening, shopping, cleaning or organizing your house, office or garage can keep you moving.

Create a healthy environment by keeping your home and work stocked with healthy snacks so it’s easier to make better choices.

Not a fan of the gym? There are several inexpensive and free workout apps available for in-home workouts.

Enjoy reading? Create a walking book club by looking for open walking areas such as malls or free walking tracks to walk and discuss the book of the month with a group.

Surround yourself with positivity and support. It’s important to have family and friends who support your health and wellness journey.

There are several community events to help you stay focused on creating a healthier and happier you in the new year. Check out these upcoming events:

Nutrition and Lifestyle Seminar hosted by Crossfit Rugrats in the Towne Square Mall, January 12, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite.

Be Well and Wonder series with Moore Yoga beginning January 22, 2019. Details for times and pricing can be found at Moore Yoga on Facebook.

Mark Patrick Stop Smoking Seminar and Lose Weight Seminar, January 22, 2019. Tickets available at markpatricseminars.com

January 2, 2019 | 3:01 am

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