My love for exercise and nutrition began when I was an athlete. I played volleyball all throughout high school and college. Physical activity was and still is my therapy. Being in the gym, focusing on getting stronger and faster helped me to clear my head, relieve stress and anxiety and gain confidence.

 

 ​After I became a mom, my focus shifted to taking care of my family. Having four kids takes a lot of energy. Early on while raising my family I started to lose sight of who I was. I was always tired, always feeling overwhelmed, even resentful at times. There were times I would think to myself, "once my kids are older I can focus on me again". That just seemed like such a long time and I was tired of how I felt and how I looked. 

 

I realized that, my kids will always need me and I will always be a mom. It was in that moment I decided to take action and begin a workout program.

 

I worked out five days a week and paid close attention to what I ate. Over the course of 12 months I stayed consistent with exercise and nutrition. I wasn't perfect with it but I stuck with it. By the end of the 12 months I lost 50lbs and felt amazing.

 

I no longer felt guilty for taking time for myself because my kids were exercising with me. By prioritizing my health and fitness I am showing my kids how to lead healthy lives.