::Four Tips on How to Pick A Therapist Now That You’re Ready for Therapy:: Guest Blogger- Eliza Boquin, MA, LMFT

LINK TO MORE EPISODES::HERE:: 

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end, you’ve probably heard about the importance of therapy many times by now.  Now you’re finally convinced that therapy isn’t restricted to people living with a major mental illness and realize you don’t have got be in crisis to go to therapy.  

Yay, you!

The problem is you don’t know where to start on finding a therapist.

No problem!  

Here are Four Tips on How to Pick A Therapist Now That You’re Ready for Therapy:

1) Ask for a Referral from People You Know:  Don’t be afraid to ask people you know if they can recommend a trusted therapist.  Most people are eager to share a referral of services they love.  Therapy is no different.  Ask them what they like about the therapist; why they chose them; what they gained from therapy with them.

2)  Ask for a Referral from a Physician:  Medical professionals often have a network of referral sources, including therapists to whom they refer clients.  If the reason you’re seeking therapy is related a medical issue, you can also sign off medical consent for your physician to collaborate your care with your therapist.  Addressing both medical & mental health issues is key to getting the most out of your therapy process.

3) Use an Online Therapist Directory: If you rather find a therapist on your own then hop online.  There are several online directories, including melaninandmentalhealth.com which specializes in listing culturally competent therapists, that you can search by your location to find a therapist near you.  Most of these websites will include a link to the therapist contact info.  This is a great way to review several of your options at once.

4)  Call the Therapist: Now that you have a referral, maybe even a few referrals, reach out to the therapist.  Call them and tell them you’re interested in going to therapy but first, you want to find out a bit more about their service.  Some therapists, such as myself, offer free phone consultations.  These consultations are the perfect opportunity to give the therapist a general overview of what’s bringing you to therapy (remember, this won’t be a therapy session) and asking them a bit more about their practice.  This also allows you to get a feel for the therapist’s personality on the phone.  Finding a therapist that you feel is a good fit for you is essential to the therapy process, so if the vibe feels off, don’t be afraid to keep looking.

The process of finding a therapist can be overwhelming, especially, if you’re eager to start on the path towards healing.  Stay encouraged and remember, there is strength in seeking support.  Use the tips listed above and commit to the process.  

Remember, therapy works if you work the therapy! 

XOXO

Your Favorite Therapist,

Eliza

Eliza Boquin, MA, LMFT

trswc.com

https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/

281.849.9914

As a Licensed Psychotherapist, Relationship & Sexuality Expert, and Owner & Founder of The Relationship & Sexual Wellness Center, Eliza Boquin works with couples and individuals to overcome any traumas, pain, or destructive patterns that keep them from enjoying healthy, satisfying, and pleasure-filled lives.  By working with clients in her office, online, and in workshops Eliza helps people gain the skills necessary to get closer to their life and relationship goals.  She is also the co-founder of Melanin & Mental Health, an organization committed to spreading mental health awareness in Black & Latinx communities.

She believes that pleasure is our birthright and shame is one of the greatest blocks to enjoying healthy, balanced lives. Eliza's journey of finding healing through self-compassion drives her to help others heal from shame. 

Topics of discussion she frequently comments on include: Unapologetic Self-Care, Therapy Stigma in Minority Communities, and Mutually Satisfying Healthy Relationships.  Her advice has also appeared in Bustle, ThriveWorks, Good Therapy, Stylecaster, Fatherly, Business Insider, and various local radio stations in Houston, TX including Amazing 102.5.

Download Your FREE Self-Care Reset Guide:

http://bit.ly/selfcarereset

::Motivational Monday:: Workout Goals with Bryanna G. for 2018

Some of the most inspiring women in my life are, no surprise, family. Bryanna and I are cousins. We didn't really see each other much when we were growing up but now as adults via Facebook, we've become reacquainted. Bryanna is such an inspiration, she is a fellow momma of dos, married and with a busy work life. It has been now that she found her motivation and her reason and she is pushing towards her best self. I love her story and hope you join her on this journey. 

Me wearing a maternity dress, Easter 2016, holding my 9-month old precious boy. “Before” pic.

The narrative below was written by Bryanna Gutierrez: 

It was just another evening in my hometown, Corpus Christi, Texas and I was headed into the shower, but my husband came home early! “Hi, Amor,” he said. My name is Bryanna, but we call each other “Amor.” I ran into my closet to hide.

I thought. What do I do now?

Wait until morning when he’s asleep? No..I never wake up that early…Should I undress here in the closet, wrap a towel around me & run for the bathroom? What if he walks INTO the bathroom? We have one of those stupid see-through, glass showers! My heart pounds when I think that he might see the mountain of fat that pushes out my navel, the two fat rolls below that, or the beyond-wrinkled, loose skin that looks like forgotten clothes at the bottom of a smashed bag.

Nine years married to a man that loves me no matter how I look, but here I am in my mid-30’s, wearing maternity clothes nine months after my second baby, trying to shower and change in secret. It hit me: This isn’t healthy! I shouldn’t be hiding in my own home! I’m pretty confident in others areas of life but I can’t take a shower without a mini, mental freakout? This has to stop.

Months after having my baby, a doctor said that surgery was the way to lose most of my fat, the 30 lbs left over from pregnancy. I didn’t want to do that. My motivation and goal became to get out of maternity clothes, without surgery, and no fear of the shower!

I went to my husband for help. He said he would help how he could, but reminded me that I had to follow through with my part, which was exercising and eating right. I realized there wasn’t much he could do for me besides cheering me on. He couldn’t exercise FOR me. He could cook something for me, but I had to eat it instead of going to eat with co-workers. I had to lose the excuses.

It was me. The most difficult part was accepting this. I had to take responsibility for myself and make the decision to be committed. I also realized that whatever I did would become “normal” to my daughter. When she’s older, do I want her feeling bad because she actually eats food? Do I want her skipping meals or turning to magic “diet” pills? No! For me, there has been no quote, book or movie that has enabled me to stay committed to my own decision and the desire to be my daughter’s example of true health. This became my new motivation, and keeps me going today!

My “after” pics, most recently completed  28-day challenge in August 2017.

I committed to exercising 3 times a week and saying no to eating out at lunch. I developed time-saving tricks for making homemade meals. I’m a busy mom of two and work full-time. My husband works days and evenings, so I need to save time where I can because it’s full-time mommy duty after work!

When a 21-day or 28-day challenge popped up, I participated! I did two in five months and lost 23 lbs! I maintained for 6 months before doing another 28-day challenge, losing another 5.5 lbs, totaling nearly 29 lbs overall! I’m ecstatic to say I don’t need maternity clothes! I’m stronger physically and mentally. I still have fat and loose, wrinkly skin, but NOTHING like before! In August 2017, I took my health to the next level by becoming a certified Ground Force Method INSTRUCTOR! And…I no longer fear the shower!

The best advice I have for you is to decide to be committed! Make a plan for eating better and exercising - either on your own or hire a coach - and STICK TO THE PLAN! You WILL succeed with consistency!

You ARE a strong mom!

Training at gym, summer 2017

LATEST VIDEO CLICK HERE.

How to contact Bryanna G.:

Email: bryanna_g@me.com

www.bryannag.com

Facebook: @healthyBryannaG

Instagram: @_Bryanna_G  

        

::5 Biggest Habits of Happy People:: Martha~ Guest Houston Latina Blogger

**This is a guest post provided by a fellow Houston Latina Blogger**

   

Post by Martha of Lifetime of Bliss: 

With today’s fast paced world I believe it’s so easy to focus on chasing happiness rather than acknowledging the fact that you can experience happiness at this very moment. Today I wanted to share with you five habits of happy people. This is based on research and my own findings. 

Simple yet effective! Enjoy!

Practice gratitude

When we take time on a consistent basis to reflect on the things that we are grateful for it is impossible to feel sadness or depression. Take notice of the little things in life that we all take for granted from time to time. Getting outside of your environment and visiting a poverty-stricken country or a local homeless shelter in your area can really put things into perspective. Writing down a few things you’re grateful for or sharing them with a close friend or family member can heighten the level of gratitude you may experience.

Live in the present

When I think about the times I’ve felt unhappy it doesn’t take long for me to discover that many of the negative feelings were brought upon due to me focusing on something that either was in the past or hadn’t even happened yet.  Being mindful of the here and now is crucial. The past is gone, leave it behind  and the future has not yet come. Focus your attention on where you are right now, that is the only moment that matters.

 Give Back 

This is a very important one guys. Ultimate happiness depends on whether you focus your energy on more than your very own happiness but that you reach out and give a helping hand. I’ve heard countless stories from people around the world sharing the fact that when they were in a bad place in their lives and they helped someone in need their sadness, depression, anxiety, etc. went away and then they felt happiness. They felt they had a purpose, a reason to live other than their own survival.

Embrace and love who you are 

Loving oneself can be a challenge. We might have grown up in a hostile environment with little or no loving support. I truly believe each and every one of us is equipped with everything we would need to live an extraordinary life. There is nothing that you are lacking. You are beautifully made in God’s image. Learning to love yourself in a healthy way not narcissistic is necessary to feel happy. When you truly love the being you are, your light will shine onto others and you will be capable of so much more.

Build meaningful relationships

As humans we yearn for human connection, recently I read an article that proved in a survey that if someone claims to have 5 or more friends with whom they can discuss important problems with they are 60% more likely to say they feel “very happy.” This past weekend I watched the documentary, Happy. (Watch the trailer here!) One of the main takeaways I had from the film was the importance of community and relationships. The film showed twenty families living under one roof in Denmark. Cohousing as they call it is a community of private homes grouped together. I loved this idea! Families there built lasting and beautiful relationships. For this reason and more Denmark is actually considered the happiest country in the world.  

Above all, remember that happiness is a choice! Whatever you choose to put your energy into will expand. Choose to focus on the goodness in your life and you will be happy. 

Wishing you tons of love, success and a lifetime of bliss!

Martha is a self-help enthusiast. Her passion for personal development began a few years ago. Currently she works full time as a bridal consultant while working on becoming a life coach. Her vision is to be able to empower and help people realize the potential that lies within them.  http://www.lifetimeofbliss.com

::Momma Wellness is Important::

                                                               {Photo Credit: Bre'onna of EightyTwo Photography}

As usual, I am inspired by women, their strength, and their story. This post was motivated by Lilly of Daily Craving as she shared her experience with PPD. Her words resonated with all the same feelings that impacted my life years ago. I have over the years shared on this blog about mental health and overall well-being as a Momma. I also recently created this video this past December, with a little more insight into my story.

As I sit and think about this post and what I should share. I get sad. I think about all those feeling and thoughts that I have experienced in that last seven years of motherhood. As Momma's we tend to lose our identity. I am guilty of it. We do so much for everyone else. Back in 2012, I was rushed to the hospital as I experienced a panic attack, it was my eye opening or awakening moment. 

We shouldn't wait for an extreme situation to learn that as momma's, wives, employees, daughters, friends, we need to take care of one person, ourselves. Being a Momma, seeking who you are, seeking your purpose, finding your own identity. It should be our priority. Because as they say if Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy! You will not find any of this in the outside world but inside of you. In your heart and mind. By being yourself. By seeking to be purpose filled. By not losing your identity as an individual just because you have become a Momma or Wife, or are a student or employee. This doesn't mean you can't be more. You can be. You should be. For you.

Yes, YOU can. 

This past weekend at our event we had three wonderful speakers who I feel embodied the very aspect of taking care of yourself! Today I want to share a little about them and give you their information as viable resources that you can use! Maybe you don't live in Houston but you can reach out to them on social media or seek the same type of people within your local community.

In the same fashion that it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a tribe to keep a Momma sane! 

Meet Dr. Kelley Watts, she spoke on how to transform your negative thoughts and give us tips on how to de-stress.

{Photo Credit: Bre'onna of EightyTwo Photography}

Dr. Kelley Watts

Psychotherapist & Transformational Coach

Kelley received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Houston. After many experiences elsewhere, including Louisiana, Spain, New York, and England, she has returned to Houston and has a thriving private practice where she works with adolescents, adults, couples and families. In addition, to traditional one-on-one and family counseling, Kelley often works in groups teaching clients skills such as Positive Parenting Strategies, Building Positive Relationships, and Managing Anxiety. She uses a variety of techniques such as narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, eye movement and desensitization (EMDR), and mindfulness to work with each client in a unique and impactful way specifically tailored to their needs at that time in their life. With a passion for developing confidence and building resilience in the people around her, Kelley teaches her clients to dig deep, laugh, play, and engage in meaningful and positive endeavors. She sees people through a kind and strength based lens and is passionate about facilitating positive changes in an effective and efficient manner.

Meet Maggie Schorsch of Texas Fit Chicks, she spoke about fitness for Momma's and how important it is to her:

I'm Maggie a 39yr old mother of two. I am a senior trainer with Texas Fit Chicks boot camp. I became a trainer because I feel all women should love their bodies and know what it feels like to be strong.I have struggled with my health and weight and I know how difficult it can be. I hope to change women's lives by empowering them to be fit and healthy.

Meet Sharon Zapata, CEO & Co-Founder of The Zapata Group, she spoke on wellness over the age of 30 and how to remain motivated:

                                                              {Photo Credit: Bre'onna of EightyTwo Photography}

Sharon is a mom of two boys, married, and studied Communications at the University of Houston-Downtown. She is the CEO & Co-Founder of The Zapata Group. As a successful entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business development expert with 15 + years, her know-how for working with people of all professional backgrounds allows her to connect & offer them impressive business development contacts, customers & bottom-line revenue to build their own economies.

She has international experience as a private English Teacher for C-Level Executives in Monterrey, N.L. MEXICO and U.S. Government Security Clearance from the Office of Federal Investigation in Washington, D.C. while working for E.X.I.M. Bank. Sharon is the author of 12 Secrets for Successful Hispanic Women and How To Escape The Lack of Success...Have You Ever Been Dissatisfied?

She is the Creator & Blogger of The Bitchy Business Briefs. A business & lifestyle micro-blog. Her writing inspires entrepreneurs, out-of-the-box thinkers, creatives and action takers to spank the economy.

She recently led a media campaign: Houston's Veteran Women with her client Houston Media Network. She is the recipient of the 2014 & 2015 Excellence Award on behalf of American Intercontinental University Women's Summit and recipient of the Latina Trend-Setter Award from H.E.R.O.E.S. for her contributions to the Houston business community. She serves on the Education Committee with Susan G. Komen-Breast Cancer Foundation, The American Heart Association's Planning Committee {Latina Leadership Circle} and The Texas Alliance for Military Women {Leadership Circle}.

The Zapata Group helps to feed 300 children, women, and men at Loaves & Fishes with an amazing organization RYG {Reach Youth Global}.

"Why Health Insurance is Important" by Dr. Esteban López for Be Covered Texas #ad

{Please, note this post has been written for my blog by Dr. Esteban Lopez in collaboration with Be Covered Texas.) 

As a father of three and a practicing pediatrician, my family’s health is top of mind every day. I bet you feel the same. But do you know what role health insurance plays in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for you and your kids? While cost can be a major factor in deciding which plan is best for you and your family, there are other factors to consider.

I hope that the information in this article is helpful for you. If you need any additional information, though, please check out Be Covered Texas (BeCoveredTexas.org) for additional educational resources about health insurance and the benefits for your family. And if you don’t currently have insurance or need to renew, now is the time to act. You can enroll in health care coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace or Exchange (healthcare.gov) until January 31.  

Be Covered Texas is an education and outreach campaign, sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shied of Texas, working with 68 Houston area (73 Dallas area) non-profit organizations to help Texans understand new health insurance opportunities. Through social media, community events, and the website BeCoveredTexas.org, the campaign provides information in English and Spanish about health insurance, how it works and how to decide what plan fits your family.

What is health insurance?

Health insurance is designed to make health care affordable. You pay a monthly payment called a premium and in exchange the insurance company pays certain costs.

But health insurance also works like a warranty from a car dealership — it pays for routine maintenance, such as certain screenings to check for diabetes or mammograms for early cancer detection to make sure you stay well, and fixes minor things that go wrong from time to time.

Why should your family have health insurance?

Routine care can add up, but the cost for a major illness or injury can be devastating. Health insurance is about covering the expenses that come with preventing illness and staying healthy, and being prepared for the worst that could happen.

Did You Know?

• The average cost of a trip to the emergency room for an adult is about $700, not including any tests or hospitalization, which may increase the bill to more than $1,000.
• Average expenses for childbirth are up to $8,800, and more than $10,000 for C-section delivery.

If you are pregnant, health insurance offers benefits to help you take care of yourself and your baby. With the right plan, you will not have to pay co-pays or added costs for these important services during and after pregnancy:

• Folic Acid supplements
• Gestational diabetes screening
• Rh Incompatibility screening
• Syphilis screening
• Urinary tract or other infection screening
• Expanded counseling for pregnant tobacco users
• Nursing support and counseling
• Access to breastfeeding supplies and equipment

Remember, now is the time to learn more about the health insurance options available to you and your family. Don’t wait for a health scare to consider coverage for the future. For more information on health insurance options for you and your family, visit www.BeCoveredTexas.org.

Solis Mammography’s :: Rethink P.I.N.K. Campaign :: #OctoberAwareness

                                   ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All information provided by PR/Media rep. 

In the month of October, the color pink has become synonymous with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Everything from consumer products to the NFL is splashed in pink. And for this heightened awareness, the team at Solis Mammography applauds the efforts of so many organizations who work hard to create and maintain this public awareness campaign. And yet, in true ironic form, today’s reality is that too many women  avoid getting their annual mammogram because of the fear and anxiety associated with breast cancer. “Based on extensive research we’ve done with women who do – or do not – get their annual mammogram, we’ve learned that the fear and anxiety associated with the pink ribbon causes too many women to stay away,” says Connie Oliver, VP marketing and client relations for Solis Mammography. “We’ve built our patient services model to try to change that.”

Solis Mammography wants women to reclaim the month of October for national breast health, and dispel the fear and anxiety created around pink ribbons. Solis wants women to know that most women – 7 out of 8 – will not get breast cancer, and that their annual mammogram is a way to focus on empowerment, choice and peace of mind. 

As the nation’s largest independent provider of screening and diagnostics for breast health services, Solis wants women to Rethink P.I.N.K. this October and focus on breast health. In this campaign, the color “pink” is rethought and becomes an acronym, “P.I.N.K.”

    • P=Peace of Mind. Solis Mammography has trademarked the Peace of Mind Mammogram™ to reflect their promise of offering such an exceptional experience that women  won’t avoid getting the mammogram they need. The environment of each center and exceptional quality of patient care offered by specialists in breast imaging leads to peace of mind for the patients they serve.

    • I=Incredible Service. Solis Mammography’s entire team is deeply committed to the women and physicians they serve. From online scheduling and fast results delivered by secure email within 24 to 48 hours, the company is proud to cite that 98 percent of their patients would give them a positive recommendation to family or friends.

    • N=Not what you Expect. While many women associate mammograms with pain, Solis’ breast dedicated technologists are highly trained in breast compression and placement. This results in 89 percent of their patients reporting little to no discomfort during their exam.

    • K=Knowledge is Power. Perhaps most central to the Rethink P.I.N.K. campaign is the common statistic most women cite – that 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Solis encourages women to remember that this also means 7 in 8 women will NOT get breast cancer. But if you are the 1 in 8, you want to find any anomaly as EARLY as possible, so that your treatment is as EASY as possible.

            The Entire Month of October including Oct. 16 which is National Mammography Day .

***Note – Many Solis centers are offering extended weekday and Saturday hours during the month of October.  

Where: There are 4 centers across Houston. 

Visit our website to find the most convenient center: http://www.solismammo.com//find-a-center/Texas/HOU

One Solis Mammography client says, “I’m concerned about breast health - for myself, my husband, and my kids. I go to Solis every year because they make it easy for me. I’m in and out quickly, I get my results within a day by email, and I get the peace of mind that comes from knowing I’m all clear for another year.”

About Solis Mammography:

Solis Mammography is a specialized healthcare provider focused exclusively on providing women an exceptional mammography experience. Headquartered in Addison, Texas, Solis currently operates 31 centers across four states – Texas, Arizona, Ohio, and North Carolina. The company operates both wholly owned centers and multiple successful joint ventures with hospital partners. Solis provides a complete range of highly specialized breast health services including screening and diagnostic mammography (2D and 3D), computer-aided detection, breast ultrasound, stereotactic biopsy and ultrasound-guided biopsy.

For more information, visit www.SolisMammo.com, like them on Facebook, follow them on Pinterest, or subscribe to their YouTube channel.

• The staff at Solis is dedicated to providing you with a warm, caring experience.

• The environment at Solis is comfortable and soothing.

• Solis understands that mammography is an intimate test; they are trained to be gentle AND get the best picture of your breast.

• Solis cares about your time! The mammogram takes 5-10 minutes; your entire visit usually takes between 30-45 minutes.

• Results are delivered to you by secure email in 24-48 hours.

• “Solis is focused on understanding your concerns, anxieties and needs. You’ll never be treated like a number at Solis Mammography!”

• Convenient - Solis has multiple locations, so finding a center and scheduling your appointment is easy. Solis provides: Easy-to-make appointments via phone or computer, walk-in appointments are also available. Use the online appointment calendar to quickly book your appointment - choose the time and the day that work best for you. Click here to schedule.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health. Other organizations cite every other year as the optimal time to get checked. Solis Mammography encourages women to talk to their doctor, explain their unique health history, and make the choice that’s right for them. When they are ready, however, Solis is there to offer an exceptional experience – eliminating stress and anxiety in every way possible.

::Eatfitters:: Be fit for life.

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All statements below are my true and honest opinion. 

As a busy Houston Momma who works outside the home, there are certain things that I look for when seeking healthy options; how convenient or affordable things are, how well balanced they can be and how accessible they are.

Which is why when I sat down and spoke to the owner of Eatfitters, Sam Jaoude, he embodied those things for me. I love speaking to people who practice what they preach and Sam and his family certainly do. You can tell he is strong and healthy, and an emotionally well balanced father, husband and entrepreneur. He is a fit person, who eats well. Simple as that. Sam has been an every day Corporate America employee. He knows the demands of working outside the home, raising a family and wanting to follow your dreams.

His father passed away at an early age of a heart attack. Sam later discovered that the untimely death of his father was caused more by his diet than his activity level. He decided that he would need to change his own eating habits to achieve a good quality of life. In his attempt to achieve this, he created his food brand which would assist on his path to a healthy lifestyle. In speaking to Sam, this change is visible and his passion for helping others achieve these same goals, is also one that stands out.

As part of my trial, I was provided food for an entire day. Trust me this is so convenient for this Momma and something I could get used to. Sam does explain that yes, eating healthy isn't cheap but the expense, I feel is well worth it. Eatfitters provides different meal plans with different prices and of course allows for walk-ins. 

For a Momma on a budget he has 3 day plans and the option to come back and pick up food on a daily, random basis. He has nutritionist on site who will help you select the best options for your lifestyle and health needs. Eatfitters also provide Family sized meals, for your entire family to stay on track.

You might think that this program resemble others but Sam assures that his program provides the following 4 qualities that others don't: they have flavor and are foods we can enjoy, they are low in sodium, the diversity of the food  resembles the city we live in, and they are nutritious! 

While Eatfitters is a slowly growing enterprise they are quickly gaining ground in the Houston area. They currently have 5 locations and future plans of expanding. I loved visiting with the employees at the location near Memorial City Mall. Everyone is very helpful and filled with valuable information. Their personalized insight into my meals were very good as well. 

I had the following meals, all very tasty and filling-

Breakfast- Chili Migas
Mid-morning snack- Cheese cake bar -SO GOOD
Lunch-Garlic Chicken Pizza
Mid-day snack- Veggie sticks and Hummus 
Dinner-Ginger Cashew Chicken 

Here are 3 things I learned from Eatfitters:

1) Healthy food can taste good- this is one of Sam's main concerns, in trying to eat healthier he learned that not many good tasting options existed. He made it his goals to make healthy food that tastes good as well. He has achieved this. My Husband and I both tried the foods and they taste great, not what we expected from this type of food setting. 

2) Balance is possible- Sam is a huge advocate of balance. He understands that life can't be lived in one rigid format. He knows that cheat meals and cheat days will happen so he has incorporated those into his meal plans and makes sure that we stay on top of our health. While you might crave a cheat day now, once you start and taste all his food options, I don't feel that one is needed. 

3) Portions are achievable- If I am being honest my biggest struggle is portions. With preset portions and some self-control Eatfitters has great portions set throughout the day. It might be something you struggle with initially but trust me you will not starve. I felt like I ate more than when I set out to eat healthy on my own. Your body needs the food as fuel, this is all explained when you go in for your free consultation. At first it might seem like the portions are too small, once you get used to them they will be just enough!

Are you ready to start eating fit today? 

Contact EATFITTERS:

http://eatfitters.com/

https://www.facebook.com/eatfit

https://instagram.com/eatfitters/

https://twitter.com/eatfithouston

Houston celebrities such as Debra Duncan and Chita Johnson, are both local customers of Eatfitters. 

.

::Momma Date:: #DANCE

Last week  I took some time off before I started a new job and on Friday I decided to meet up with a friend. At a dance class! That's right, we made plans and I finally visited the famous Crystal Wall MixFitz Studio. 

The experience was amazing. The group of ladies was wonderful. I can't wait to go back! 

Crystal and I first met at the beginning of the year at the "Vision of Love" event here in Houston. I was totally blown away by her passion and her REALNESS. She said something to me on Friday morning that I can't stop thinking about. She said that she lives in North side {Houston} because "it's both a little of the city and a little of the hood." I identify so much with her because of things like this. I grew up in North side Houston but where you live and where you come from have nothing to do with who you will become and where you will go. 

Her personality is so positive and her smile is motivating. She is a Momma like many of us, she is a #BossLady, entrepreneur and businesswoman who is filled with class but keeps it real. I love that about her. 

She is so down to earth and I loved her high energy and ability to teach us all of her choreography. I love that her studio is geared towards women, I felt so comfortable shaking my booty and being ME. Her #1 Rule is "HAVE FUN!" She started her class by reminding us that we should be ourselves, that she was going to rock that workout with her style and personality and that we should give it our own unique all.

Her class is definitely one that I recommend and really any of her instructors and classes look great! 

Thank you to my friend Yvonne from Running in Faith for the shared morning! Loved it all! 

Panic Attacks are Uncool!

Photo Credit: Google Search

Panic attacks are uncool.

Back in 2012, I had the most uncool episode. I had to quit my job. I was faced with a horrible feeling of being beside myself. I was laying in the ladies room at my work place with a good friend/co-worker trying to calm me down. Paramedics filled the bathroom and asked of past history. As I write this I tingle and get clamy. It's not cool ya'll! It's the most horrifying feeling ever. To be in a room but nothing makes sense. Your breathing shortens. Your mind clouds and the moment seems endless. I wasn't dying so I went from work to an ambulance to sitting in a downtown ER for hours. Before being sent home with the diagnosis of "crazy person". Not literally but you know what I mean. It was not the most pleasurable experience. And, it was bit embarrassing.

To this day I see people from my old job and they tell me how that was their last memory of me. Me being wheeled out on a stretcher. 

It's not something that I had warning signs for or that slowly came up with different symptoms. I was a Momma of Dos {2}, working full-time with a Husband who was a student and away for almost 2 months in Utah on an Internship assignment. One day I was in "total control"; running a home and getting occasional help with the kids, living alone for 2 months, working as a full-time Assistant Supervisor helping run an office of about 50 employees and "making it all work".  And, the next day I was sitting in my office in a meeting with my supervisor and a group of other employees when I couldn't breath and had lost it.

It's been over 2 years since that happened. I "took it easy" for a while as recommend by my doctor, but how long can you really "take it easy"? Life is hectic. It's hard to always be in relax mode. Despite doctor's recommendations, I never took medication for my "condition". Instead I got a new job, less stressful, and started a new type of lifestyle. Still, life is life. 

These days, the moments of panic come and go. I have learned to control them and manage my day to day with them. I have learned that if  a place is too crowed or stuffy and small, I get a little more nervous and anxious. But, overall I try to make my "overwhelming" situation into one that I can control.

Here are 3 simple ways that I control my panic attacks;

1) ::Breathing Exercises:: Some times I know it's all in my mind, I take deep breaths slowly get up and walk away from the room or what I am thinking and try to relax my mind. It's a rush of nervousness that fills my brain and it quickly travels to all other areas of my being. So, I feel it coming on and I sit back and tell myself it's going to be OK. Some days that works, others I have to get up and walk around or find a quiet place to just relax for a few minutes.

2) ::Asking for Help:: I used to be scared to ask others for help. I hate being a burden. I don't like bothering others, everyone is busy. But, I found that for the most part if I simply ask, people are more than willing to help me. I don't do it often but when I do I make sure that it's for something important. These days, I am always scared people will say no, and they do but I just keep asking around and eventually someone will be available and can help me!  It's also not easy if you don't have too many friends or family that live close by. I have also learned to voice my need for help to my Husband, who then will give me a hand or take on extra time with the kids.

3) ::Take Time Off:: I have learned to just have days where nothing is going on. To relax, catch up on sleep and enjoy the nothingness. It's hard to do as a Momma and some days are better than others. But, even if it's a few extra hours to sleep in or just lay on the couch and relax, I do it. I try to because life becomes busy, very quickly. That's exhausting and draining. And, it affects my level of anxiety. Taking advantage of down time is key in getting your mind clear.

All of these changes help me, the biggest help is seeking medical assistance and/or counseling. I would never have thought of all this on my own, it's something I have learned from different health care professionals.

It has been easier to  manage my everyday. Life can be so stressful but there is always a way.  Never give up on yourself. It might not be easy but it will be worth it.