Health coaching for real life
I started Health Happens at Home as a way to help interested people further their wellness journeys. Although my interest in health started early and I’ve been a dietitian for nine years, I have not completed my journey (and I won’t until the Lord decides my time on earth is up). This is real life. I consider health a hobby, but I still struggle with a sweet tooth. I know how hard it can be! My family lives on a tight grocery budget so we don’t eat all organic. Two of my three kids are picky eaters. My youngest (20 months old at the time of this writing) refuses to eat any fruits or vegetables unless they are hidden in her food. When our refrigerator broke (which it did this week) we ate lots fast food, the cheap, unhealthy kind. When I had terrible morning sickness (all three pregnancies) we didn’t cook for 3 months at home because I could not handle the smell of foods cooking like broccoli or even the thought of yogurt existing in the fridge! This is real life, not a perfect life. There will be days and even seasons where we don’t eat, exercise, or live that way we want. With each new day we each get a fresh start to make healthier choices.
My journey to become a health coach
Growing up, my mom was a PE/Health teacher and a fitness fanatic. Here is a picture of me “working out” with her when I was 7 months old. My mom inspired my interest in health.
I went to college to be a dietitian and never wavered. I loved all the required science, nutrition, and cooking classes. As a dietitian, I worked in multiple hospitals for several years. It was discouraging that very few of my patients had any interest in making dietary changes. After the birth of my first child, I became a stay at home mom. While I missed the adult interaction and educational opportunities hospital work provided, I did not miss the fact that most of my efforts were not leading people to healthier lifestyles.
I have always dreamed of owning my own nutrition business, but after visiting several businesses early in my career and hearing insurance company horror stories, I was no longer sure it was possible. [Side note: My dad has owned a small business for years and inspired my business interest.] As a stay at home mom I continued to pursue wellness and stumbled upon some health coaching information and was immediately intrigued. I researched several programs and decided to pursue certification through the Dr. Sears Wellness Institute. Dr. William Sears is a renowned pediatrician and author of over 40 books. His wellness philosophy closely aligns with mine. He focuses on nutrition, real food with emphasis on plants and Omega-3 rich seafood. He also emphasizes exercise and the other pillars of lifestyle and attitude. I agree with Dr. Sears that taking a holistic approach to health is more effective for long term change.
I am passionate about nutrition and wellness. I am excited to share my passion, knowledge, and personal experience with you. I am not the food police. No matter where you are in your wellness journey, I won’t judge you. But if you are ready to start making some healthy changes I’d love to help you and your family! To take your first steps check out my services and contact pages.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Erin Marie
