The Missing Ingredient: A Journey of Eating to Gain Muscle

As a health and fitness coach with over 25 years of experience, my journey has been both enlightening and transformative. Along the way, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about health, nutrition, and the balance that we all strive to achieve. Today, I want to share with you a heartfelt reflection on my personal evolution and the insights that have shaped my philosophy on wellness.

We all need Protein, Carbs and Healthy Fats!

My Biggest Lesson: The Importance of Macros

One of the most profound lessons I've learned throughout my journey is that the food we consume plays a critical role in how we feel, perform, and recover. It may sound simple, but understanding that macros matter—the macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—has been pivotal in fueling my body and achieving the positive changes I longed for.

By focusing on these essential nutrients, I’ve experienced denser muscles, improved recovery times, and an overall sense of vitality that I never knew could exist. This knowledge isn’t just theoretical; it shapes my daily choices and guides the support I provide to my clients as they pursue their own health and fitness goals.

A Huge Win: Changing My Relationship with Food

Reflecting on the past 90 days, I'm proud to share a substantial win in my journey: my evolving relationship with food. For too long, I viewed food merely as a necessity or a comfort. However, the missing ingredient in my wellness journey has been the realization that food is fuel for my body. The number on the scale, which changed minimally, is not the metric in which I rely on any more. I love feeling strong and seeing new muscles. That is something the scale can not measure, and I like many people, I put too much stock in the number on the scale for too long!

I’ve shifted my mindset to prioritize nutrition that supports my physical needs and overall well-being. This transformation has not only enhanced my own health but has also enabled me to mentor my clients through similar struggles, guiding them to see food as an ally in their wellness journey rather than a source of guilt or confusion.

A Challenge Point: Navigating Life’s Hurdles

Life is rarely without its challenges and, like many of you, I have faced my share of hurdles—whether it’s time constraints, family tragedies, or ur unexpected weather events that disrupt our routines. These obstacles can make it difficult to maintain the healthy habits we aspire to uphold.

Yet, it is through this experience that I’ve discovered the power of self-love. I learned that caring for myself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. By prioritizing my health, I’m better equipped to manage life’s demands and support my loved ones and clients. Giving myself permission to focus on my well-being, even when times are tough, has been a crucial step in overcoming these challenges.

Acknowledging My Coach: The Power of Perspective

I want to take a moment to acknowledge my coach, Courtney, who has been a pillar of support and wisdom throughout this journey. Courtney constantly reminds me to embrace taking photos and to celebrate the moments I get to share with others. It’s a powerful reminder to appreciate the choices I have in my life when I have spent time with family members who no longer have that option. Embracing those moments and capturing them not only helps me recognize my progress but also reinforces the importance of living fully in each moment.

Moving Forward: Focusing on Nutrition Goals

As we head into the rest of the year, my primary focus point for my nutrition goals is to extend the same grace and focus to myself that I offer to my clients. I understand that to be a good teacher and coach, I must first take care of myself. This means continuing to respect my relationship with food and prioritizing meals that nourish and energize me.

I now approach my nutrition with a sense of respect and purpose. I don’t live to eat; I eat well to live well. This shift in perspective allows me to maintain balance and happiness, feeding not just my body, but also my spirit.

Conclusion

In closing, remember that the missing ingredient in your health journey may be the understanding and respect you give to food. It's a powerful tool that, when used wisely, can support your goals and enhance every aspect of your life. As I move forward, I invite you to reflect on your own relationship with food and how it serves your journey. Let’s continue to uplift each other, celebrating our wins, navigating challenges, and nourishing our bodies for a vibrant and fulfilling life!

If you are thinking that this is something you need in your life, my Coach is beginning another Macro clinic beginning on February 1st, 2026. Discover what Macro's balance your body and energy for life! Reach out to me for more details.