6 Resources that Have Shaped My Wellness Coaching Approach
Delve into the transformative world of wellness coaching, guided by the profound insights of industry experts. This article unpacks the pivotal resources that have redefined therapy, client care, and holistic approaches to wellness. Discover the expert-driven philosophies and innovative research that are shaping the future of wellness coaching.
- Frankl's Philosophy Shapes Resilience-Focused Therapy
- Rhimes' Book Inspires Client Transformation
- Podcast Enhances Understanding of Neurodivergent Clients
- Van der Kolk's Work Transforms Holistic Coaching
- Ford's Shadow Work Revolutionizes Wellness Approach
- Blesching's Cannabis Guide Elevates Patient Care
Frankl's Philosophy Shapes Resilience-Focused Therapy
Few books have left as lasting an imprint on my life and work as Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning. Written by the renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, the book is both a harrowing memoir and a profound exploration of human resilience. Frankl's experiences in Nazi concentration camps led him to a transformative realization: even in the face of unimaginable suffering, we maintain one fundamental freedom--the ability to choose our response.
His words, "Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms--to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way," have become a guiding principle in my work as a therapist. In my practice, I help individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, and life's hardships. Frankl's philosophy reinforces the belief that meaning can be found even in struggle, and that our capacity for resilience is greater than we often realize.
This perspective has deeply shaped my therapeutic approach, encouraging clients to reclaim agency over their lives. By fostering a sense of purpose and resilience, I strive to help others embrace Frankl's ultimate message: that suffering, when met with courage and meaning, can become a catalyst for transformation.
Rhimes' Book Inspires Client Transformation
We live in a world in which a little coaching for all of us goes a long way! Many of my clients are in a bit of a pivot right now as they navigate the uncertainty of where they may "fit" in their companies and professional spaces. One book that I keep in my coaching toolkit is Shonda Rhimes' YEAR OF YES, which is her own story about daring to take on new projects, assignments, and new personal self-care strategies that truly changed her life. Many people hold themselves back because of fear or doubt, and this causes stagnation. This book has helped me support my clients by providing them with a real-life example of a powerhouse success story, like Shonda Rhimes. As my clients begin to take a page from her book and begin to turn their professional and personal "NOs into YESes," the rewards and transformative experiences have been a game changer.
Podcast Enhances Understanding of Neurodivergent Clients
Right, hear me out.
The Not So Typical Fitness Podcast.
Yes, yes, it's mine. BUT it will help anyone looking to improve their ability to connect with and understand neurodivergent clients. I truly want to improve accessibility within the fitness world and that is because of my own journey.
My late diagnosis of autism and ADHD (AuDHD) and weight loss of 100lbs since that day, without medical intervention - just learning how to work with my neurodivergence rather than against it and understanding what balanced and correct nutrition should look like.
This is the whole entire reason I set up my business and qualified as a personal trainer so if one other person in the health and wellness industry can listen and can then go on to help others who were like me, that's a win.
Van der Kolk's Work Transforms Holistic Coaching
A resource that has significantly shaped my approach to wellness coaching is the work of Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, particularly his book, "The Body Keeps the Score." It's not a typical self-help book; it delves into the profound impact of trauma on the body and mind. It really opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being.
This understanding has transformed how I work with clients. It's prompted me to move beyond surface-level advice about diet and exercise. I now prioritize creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore the roots of their habits and behaviors. It's about recognizing that sometimes, the challenges people face with wellness are deeply connected to past experiences. What's more, I've incorporated mindfulness and somatic practices into my coaching, helping clients connect with their bodies and develop a greater sense of self-awareness. This holistic approach has led to more profound and lasting transformations for the people I work with.
Ford's Shadow Work Revolutionizes Wellness Approach
One book that has profoundly influenced my approach to wellness coaching is Dark Side of the Light Chasers by Debbie Ford. This book was a game-changer for me in understanding and integrating my shadow self--the parts of us we often reject but hold immense power for transformation.
In my coaching, I guide clients to stop running from their shadows and instead, embrace them as part of their wholeness. Healing and thriving is in making peace with your shadows, learning from them, and using them as fuel for growth. Wellness is wholeness--body, mind, and soul.
This book reinforced my belief that real healing happens when we stop pretending to be just the "good" parts of ourselves and start owning all of who we are.
Blesching's Cannabis Guide Elevates Patient Care
One book that has influenced my approach to health coaching is "The Cannabis Health Index" by Uwe Blesching. A comprehensive, scientifically based explanation of cannabis's effects on various medical ailments can be found in this book. It has helped me understand cannabis's medical applications beyond rumors, which strengthens the legitimacy of the job Elevate Holistics does.
The greatest effect has been on how we speak with patients. Most individuals visit us unsure about cannabis and whether it will help with their condition. This book offers an organized framework for explaining the potential benefits from published studies, enabling us to advise patients confidently. Rather than unsubstantiated claims, we emphasize evidence-supported findings, which help patients in making informed choices.
It has also influenced how we train our team. Our goal is to remove confusion around medical marijuana, and using resources like this ensures that our staff can provide accurate information. Transparency is something that patients need, and this book emphasizes how crucial knowledge is to wellness coaching. People feel more at ease and in control of their decisions when they understand the science.
