The 3 Biggest Wellness Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

In 2018, my health journey began. I was working from home, and by the end of each day, I could barely make it down the hall before collapsing into bed for a nap. Exhaustion became my norm. Over the next several years, I saw countless providers, underwent test after test, and followed various protocols, all in search of answers.

I wish I could say it led to a miraculous recovery and that I felt 20 years old again. But the truth is, while I’m not where I once was, I’m still not where I want to be. Yet, through the ups and downs, I discovered something even more valuable: the power of resilience, self-awareness, and sustainable wellness practices.

The lessons I’ve learned over the past seven years not only transformed my own well-being but also inspired me to become a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Now, I’m committed to guiding others on their own wellness journeys by empowering them to build healthier habits, gain confidence, and create lasting change.

Wellness is holistic:  It’s not just about moving your body, but moving your life forward.

I’ve always been active. In fact, I thrive on a challenge, whether it’s pushing my physical limits or learning a new sport. If you really want to punish me, tell me I can’t go outside and “play.” Even on my most exhausting days, I’d lace up my shoes, hop on my bike, or head to a gym class. I was convinced that if I just kept moving, I’d eventually feel better.

But I was wrong. Exercise and healthy eating alone aren’t enough. True wellness goes beyond physical fitness, it’s the balance of mind, body, and spirit. It’s learning to slow down, listen to your body, and care for your mental and emotional well-being as much as your physical health. This is where lasting wellness is found.

Progress over perfection: Lasting change doesn’t happen overnight—it happens one step at a time.

We live in a world of instant gratification. We can binge an entire series without waiting a week for the next episode. We can order nearly anything online and have it at our door the same day. Our phones feed us instant messages, news updates, and notifications nonstop.

With that kind of immediacy, it’s easy to expect instant results when it comes to our health. You might think that after seven years on my wellness journey, I’d have it all figured out and I’d reached the finish line, perfectly healthy and thriving. But the truth is, I’m still learning, still growing, and still making changes.

Wellness isn’t a destination, it’s a lifelong journey. Each day offers a new chance to make better choices, to strengthen your body, calm your mind, and nourish your soul. Real results come from consistency, not quick fixes. It’s the small, steady steps.  The ones that feel slow and subtle leading to lasting transformation

You Are Your Best Advocate: Trust Your Body’s Wisdom

One of the most important lessons I have learned over these last 7 years is that no one knows your body better than you. You feel the subtle shifts, the moments when your energy dips, your gut feels off, or your stress level rises. These signals are your body’s way of communicating, but in a fast-paced world, it’s easy to ignore or dismiss them.

I’ve learned that wellness starts with self-awareness. While lab tests, wellness experts, and protocols have their place, your intuition is the most powerful guide. You are the only one who truly knows how certain foods, habits, or environments make you feel. You’re the one who notices the patterns, whether it’s an afternoon slump after a sugary snack or the calm that comes from a morning walk.

Learning to listen to your body is a skill. It means slowing down, tuning in, and respecting what it’s telling you. It’s recognizing when you need rest instead of pushing through. It’s trusting your instincts when something feels off, even if the data says otherwise. It’s speaking up and seeking answers when your health concerns aren’t being fully addressed.

Long-term wellness doesn’t come from blindly following trends, it comes from understanding what works for you. When you become your own best advocate, you make empowered, intentional choices that support your unique health journey. 

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that lasting change is possible for anyone. I’d love to support you on your journey.  If you’re ready to prioritize your health, not with fads or quick fixes, but with real, lasting change, I’m here to help. Whether you’re aiming to boost your energy, manage stress, or create healthier routines, you don’t have to do it alone.

Let’s take the first step together! Reach out for a free consultation to learn more about how personalized coaching can help you feel stronger, healthier, and more balanced life for the long haul.