The Momma Bird

Getting Certified!

July 31, 2014 By Michelle 2 Comments

You guys, did you hear? I think I may have shared it in my June Recap post, but if you haven’t heard – I am getting my certification in Optimal Health, Wellness & Sport Fitness! I am beyond excited about this. I am just now finishing up my first course and and currently have an ‘A’! Whoop Whoop!

Right now I’m learning about Functional Foods. Learning the components of foods, various spices & hearbs that are beneficial to your health, and even learning how to research foods that have claimed health benefits to see if it is based on actual fact or just what people think.

I am blown away with the lack of research on SO many foods that claim health benefits! I’ve also realized that just because it’s an article from a website that is trusted, still doesn’t mean that it’s based off of legit clinical research. Check your sources people.

This graph above is a great example of some of the foods you should be eating. Did you know you should aim for at least 6-9 servings of veggies in a SINGLE DAY! Say what?! Did you also know that whole grains (i’m not talking refined breads, i’m talking WHOLE grains – the bran, the germ and the endosperm) contain as many phytochemicals and antioxidants as fruits and vegetables but often different TYPES of phytochemicals? Yup. So there’s your education on health & wellness for the day.

I am even more excited about my next course which will be Weight Management & Nutrition. I have had a number of people ask me for advice regarding their meal plans and how to lose weight safely. As you know I used the Shaklee 180 program to jump start my weight loss plan, but I am excited to learn other ways to help people lose weight that will work for their specific lifestyle.

For me, I started with watching portions and exercising and when my weight just went to a stand-still I was looking for something else and the Shaklee 180 program was definitely exactly what I needed. I got way more out of it than just weight loss. I got improved health issues and a career! Can’t beat that! Did you see my before/after above?! How crazy is that??? I have been using the Lean & Healthy Kit during the week and weekends are “free”. I’ve been using the T25 work outs during the week and then getting in 4.5 mile walks about 5 days a week. I feel stronger, I have definition in places I haven’t had definition in since I was in high school! I’m not where I want to be, but I’m getting there. My stomach is still squishy and sags down when I bend forward or do push ups. I still have dimples in my thighs/butt. But you know what. I am STRONG! I have way more endurance and I feel SO good in my clothes now!!

I am excited to learn all the ways to help others while still using my Shaklee business for support. I realize that not everyone can do a program like I did. So, that’s where this certification comes in.

On another note, we are headed home in just 20 days!!!! GAH! I am so excited you have no idea! It has been just over 2 years since I’ve been back and I am READY! I need some relaxation, time alone with the hubby and NO KIDS. (I love my children, but man I need a break.) The kids are super excited as well, they will get to hang with their grandparents, do exciting adventures with them and get to play with cousins. My heart will be so happy & full.