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Joanie
UT Health Science Center Houston
1) What health behavior did you change?
I improved my sleeping, my breathing, and I lost weight. I became more aware of what I eat, times I eat, why I was eating.
2) Why did you decide to make this change?
I had already been riding my bike, walking the stairs, and eating healthier. I wanted to support the workplace efforts to promote wellness.
3) How did you accomplish your success?
Although I did not accomplish the 10,000 step goal each day, I did improve my efforts to increase my activity level by being mindful of how better I felt after each time I rode my bike, when I took the stairs, and how well I slept on the days I had more exercise. I accomplished success by believing that I deserve to be healthy and happy.
4) How did UT System Living Well or your Institution’s resources and tools help you?
I have enjoyed the tips, healthy recipes, ongoing information and encouragement for healthy living.
5) What goals and obstacles did you have?
Goals: To ride my bike and take the stairs each day. To not eat after 6:30pm each day. To eat foods that provide energy and nutrition, take my Essential Oil supplements. Have positive thoughts. I rewarded myself with a new purse and blouse.
I was the main obstacle at times. Even though weather has been a big issue, there were alternative ways to offset those times with others forms of exercise.
6) Who supported you during this experience?
My husband supported me. He was like the rabbit during a dog race. Kept at a pace of at a minimum of 15 miles per hour while bike riding.
7) What advice do you have for others who want to make this change?
Believe you deserve to feel healthy. Have a workout buddy that supports you in making healthy choices. Pray for endurance. Reward yourself with non-food related interests (an overnight getaway, a new work-out outfit etc.). Review the positive experiences you had at the end of each day. Read uplifting inspirational thoughts each start of your day. Hang out with joyful co-workers. Be grateful for being employed at a workplace that supports wellness.
