I recently sat down with one client and interviewed her to share more about her experience of working with a Health Coach for the first time. It can be hard to make changes when it comes to working toward your health and weight goals so this is a candid insight into Lisa’s journey. Please leave a comment below if you can relate with any part of Lisa’s story.

Laura: Was there anything that led you to decide to make changes to your diet?

Lisa: I had been experiencing a lot of stress and felt like my life was spiraling out of control. In January 2016 I woke up one morning feeling my heart racing and thought I was having a heart attack. I went to work that day but only made it through part of the day when I decided to go to urgent care. I was diagnosed with having a panic attack. I knew at that time that something needed to change.

Laura: Why did you decide to start working with a Health Coach?

Lisa: After the panic attack episode I wasn’t sure what do next. I had heard about Health Coaching but was skeptical on if that was the right approach for me. I scheduled a session with Laura and after our conservation I realized she would be able to help guide me to make lifestyle changes to control my stress.

Laura: What has been most beneficial about working with a Health Coach?

Lisa: I have changed to eating a more natural and clean diet while reducing refined sugars and processed foods.  As a result my stress level has decreased and my sugar cravings have reduced significantly. I have also lost 25 pounds so far and have noticed that I am sleeping better. I used to take naps on weekends during the day but I find that I no longer need them because I have so much more energy during the day now.

Laura: What has been the biggest challenge/obstacle?

Lisa: The biggest challenge for me was realizing that a change needed to be made and how to take that first step. I had a fear of the one-on-one interaction and was concerned that I would be judged or criticized. However, after my first session I realized that was not the approach you take and was immediately put to ease.

Laura: Do you have any advice for others who are considering making some habit changes?

Lisa: My advice would be to be gentle on yourself. There are days when I may not be perfect but I know that my goal is lifelong health and a detour every now and then is not the end of the world. I still enjoy eating out but make better choices to ensure I don’t feel deprived. If I feel like I have a set back we talk it through and I leave the conversation feeling more positive. I’m still learning how to be gentle with myself but have made a lot of progress thanks to you!

About Laura B. Folkes:

Laura B. Folkes is a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) and is a Certified Holistic Health Coach. She supports busy adults to take back control of their eating, successfully navigate life with food intolerances, reduce cravings and/or make sustainable changes without deprivation. After successfully losing 60 pounds and working through her own emotional relationship with food, Laura recognizes there are many factors keeping individuals from sticking to what they know works but it’s her mission to help others overcome these factors to become healthier and happier.

To learn more visit www.laurabfolkes.com or contact Laura at laura@laurabfolkes.com.