Powerful but true.

It wasn’t overt.
But there was a knowing.
It appeared in subtle ways.
“That’s an impossible training schedule.”
“You’re not 24.”
“You need more time than that.” 

But my mind said yes.
My ego said there’s a way.

There was a stress-
The tension that comes
When you ignore that still small voice.

I felt it when I said yes & filled out the application.
Felt it more after I got the official notice –
I had been accepted.

I pushed down the feeling with excitement.

I knew this feeling.
There have been times when I ignored my inner knowing before.

And still this time,
My head said yes, AGAIN.

It seems symbolic that I literally missed the break.

Coming down the hill. . .
I reached my hands out for the brakes.
Like thousands of times before.
. . .But my right hand missed. . .
. . .a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. . .
. . .a futile attempt to compensate. . .
. . .seeing my wheel go into the dirt. . .

And there I was barely able to move. . .
I sat in the dirt and let out a wail of a scream. . .
Knowing full well no one could hear.

Minutes later an angel appeared
. . . An angel in the form of a nurse driving down the road.
. . . the ambulance, the ER, the ICU
. . .Conscious throughout it all.

Now I listened:
“No. No spinal surgery.
Let’s see if it will stabilize without it.”

I said “let’s see.” but I felt I knew.
The neck brace officially came off yesterday.
I’m on my way . . .

Now I will continue to listen.
The body knows. 

The post The body  knows-  appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

As we embark on a new year, I find myself thinking about my life and yours; how they intersect & how I can serve you.

Quick question:
Are you a theme, resolution, or intention person?

You may think there’s little difference but we call something is everything.

I used to do the Resolutions and Yearly Goals thing and found year after year, it would drop out of sight somewhere between March and June. Around October, I resurrected it, and beat myself up for where I was and letting it drop out of site. Then I proceeded to stress myself out about how far off I was & work my butt off to accomplish what I could by the end of the year. AND end the year often feeling like a failure.

Does this sound familiar??? Maybe it was time to look deeper.

Several years ago, after some life challenges that truly woke me up, I realized that, for me, the resolutions and goals were only addressing the symptoms and not getting to the core of the problems. (Interesting how this correlates with my view on health & well-being too.) Making resolutions to lose weight, stop blowing up at my spouse and kids, or grow my practice ultimately didn’t make the difference I wanted them to. I still wound up with personal relationships that were more superficial, less meaningful than I wanted and a chiropractic practice where I didn’t have the deeper influence I wanted either. 

Coincidently, this was around the same time much of the business & entrepreneurial world was transitioning into using intentions and themes rather than strict goals for the New Year. After adopting that concept, I discovered it permitted me to be the imperfect human that I was and not beat myself up over it.

Then, as I moved into coaching and opened this idea up to my clients, they saw the same thing.

Together, we discovered that they (and I) could still set goals but we did that after we dug deeper into the more important thing. . . how we wanted to show up in the world. The results were deeper and more profound changes that propelled us forward with our goals in all areas of life.

Here’s the bottom line: when we do the work to figure that out, we are far more likely to be the person we have set our ideals on, moving past our feelings in the moment, to the deeper picture.

All that brings me to 2025 and my theme for the year: Authenticity.
To me, this is about showing up everywhere as the person I’ve always known I could be deep inside. That core essence of what I want to be and do in the world, for my family & friends, for my clients and those who follow me and most of all, for myself.

So I can lean into this and let it help me do things I’ve avoided, like showing up live on social media or speaking and writing more. 

The other thing I’ve noticed, both in myself and in those around me is a fear of being this real with ourselves. This is especially true if you’re older, less healthy, or ultimately not where you expected to be at this stage of life.

Intrigued by all this? Ready to take the plunge and look the deeper you square in the eye?
I have a New Year’s gift for you: Set up your (free) Vibrant Life Plan call. (only open for 4 days) This is not a ‘sales’ call. This is simply an opportunity for me to be more authentically myself and help you dig into one aspect of your best life.

The post Happy New Year: Themes, Resolutions & Intentions, What’s Your’s? appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

I’m thrilled to share something close to my heart—a new way to step into our fullest potential and create lives we genuinely love. Over my years as a chiropractor and now as a transformational health and life coach, I’ve seen that mid-life and older women possess incredible wisdom, gifts, and perspectives. Many of us are ready to bring these forward in powerful ways. But too often, we find ourselves at a crossroads, wondering: What’s next for me? Life has kept many of us busy fulfilling roles, meeting needs, and supporting those around us. In the process, we often set aside our own dreams.

Are you ready to move through the potential paralysis of that quickly and effectively?

Our “3rd act” is our chance to reclaim those dreams and make our unique mark on the world. I know this journey personally, as I’ve faced my own challenges and transformations in recent years. Each experience shows me that life challenges us to learn, thrive, and, through love, emerge stronger. My desire to live a life I love—one that lets me help others deeply—has only grown clearer. (I won’t ever submit to that life of doctor appointments and procedures, mixed with occasional hobbies, the main one digressing quickly to complaining.) And so, I’ve created a new program, a pilot version I’d love your help in refining.

Empowered Wellness: Design Your 3rd Act with Clarity & Audacity is an eight-week journey. It supports women in reclaiming their vision and embracing their unique purpose. This program combines transformational spiritual tools, mindset work, and just a touch of physical health. (We’ll approach physical health by learning how to maintain lifetime mental clarity in a straightforward way.) My vision is that, by the end of these eight weeks, you’ll hold a clear vision for the life you’d love to create, along with tools for lifelong growth, resilience, and fulfillment.

Do you wonder how to plan for this crossroads and turn your 3rd act into a life you’d love? Don’t settle for living something less than your most audacious dream.

Together, we’ll go beyond old beliefs and reshape what we think we can or can’t have. We’ll embrace a powerful shift in self-worth and potential. If you’re ready to shape your own unique path and create a life that genuinely excites you, this program is here to help.

As a founding member, you’ll gain access to Q&A sessions, real connections with other inspiring women, and lifetime access to all program upgrades. This includes the opportunity to take it again, live, for free anytime I offer it. And, of course, as part of the pilot group, you’ll get pilot program rates as we bring this program to life.

If you’re ready to rediscover your purpose, create a life filled with meaning, and leave a legacy of impact, I would love to have you join me. Just reach out (email/DM) to learn more. Let’s step into 2025 with clarity, courage, and a deep commitment to the lives we truly want to live.

#womensupportingwomen
#womenempowerment
#selflove #self-love

The post Empowered Wellness: Designing Your 3rd Act with Clarity and Audacity appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

Our little human minds want to say it’s a failure whenever things don’t go our way.

The truth is, we need ‘failures’ to learn the appropriate lessons.

For example, during my career in healthcare, I sometimes scheduled programs, did outreach, and no one showed up! I used the time to deliver the program to an empty room or to my dog & get some additional practice. That paved the way for future success.

Sometimes the lesson was I had inadequate outreach. But sometimes the lesson was people aren’t interested in that subject. Or maybe they would be if I had chosen a more powerful title.

It is said that Edison made 10,000 ‘mistakes’ before he discovered the tungsten lightbulb. Edison is quoted as saying, “I never had a failure, it was all feedback.”

Indeed if Edison was like most people today, he would’ve given up after 20 or 30 tries, let alone 8 or 9 thousand! Where would we be today if Edison was like us? What if we thought more like Edison?

So what’s my point?

As you begin to design what you want your life to look like in your 3rd act, there will be starts and stops, there may be pivots. You may even decide to change course mid-stream.

Whether that is a mistake or a good choice doesn’t depend on money, time, how old you are, how big the project is, or who says what about it. 

Make your choices without regard for all those things. Simply ask, ‘Would I love this?’ If the answer is ‘Yes.’ then there’s a 5-point test I can teach you to determine if it’s right for you.

So remember, compromise is not an option.

Living someone else’s dream is not an option.

Basing your dream on current reality, money, training or anything else that’s based in the past isn’t an option.

But also consider: while failure is not an option, success is not guaranteed.

There was a reel that went viral on Instagram a while ago that encompasses everything about what constitutes a ‘good life.’ The quote in it: “There are only 2 people in your life to be concerned about pleasing. . .the 8-year-old you and the 80-year-old you.”

That’s a great starting criterion.

Over the past year, I’ve been living with that at the forefront of my mind. I’ve found when I’m truly there, living in the moment life is almost effortless. 

If you want to make life in your 3rd act more effortless & live a life you love but aren’t sure what that looks like,
Watch for an announcement on October 28th about my upcoming program that can help you.

The post Failure Is Not an Option; Success Is Not Guaranteed appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

I’ve always used this time to begin my planning for next year; a process of re-evaluation and choosing a path forward.

And as I get older I notice the draw by society and culture to a life I don’t want to be part of. It’s a life of old.

It’s not the life of wisdom, accomplishment, or what a proud elder might contribute to the world.

It’s a life of golf and bunco games. A life of doctors’ appointments and diagnose; a life of procedures and convenience foods. That life quickly gives way to a life of suffering and a slow and steady spiral downward.

Not the life I signed up for or will ever participate in.

You may say I don’t control my destiny, I’d highly disagree.

Life is all about the actions you take and how you look at it.

Yes, things may happen.

The father-in-law of a dear friend of mine, recently fell & broke a couple of ribs. One thing I know: his attitude in recovering from this will dictate the remainder of his life, regardless of his chronological age. That may sound dramatic, but it’s the absolute truth. However we view our lives and what has happened to us can bring us down or can bring us new opportunities. 

Many of you know I’ve had major changes in many of my life circumstances over the past few years; a divorce and subsequent sale of my house & moving out of the community I lived in for over 30 years; my kids dispersed in different parts of the world and more.
Through all this, the inner work has let me to see that these things have happened for me and with me, not to me. I am not the victim, I am an intricate part of it. Whether I consciously chose each action I took, or each thing I said. What’s been most important is how I have viewed it, moved through it, and the lessons I’ve learned from it. Most importantly, the peace I have found, and the enthusiasm I continue to have for life itself. 

So WHY am I telling you all this?

Because the deepest lesson I’ve learned is that life moves through you and with you to teach you lessons. They’re what you need to learn to become more of the Self you were meant to be. (Self is capitalized intentionally). 

The journey I’ve been on has led me to a new place of strength and contribution. It’s a place where I feel the knowledgable elder coming through to coalesce all the learnings of the past almost 70 years and bring them to you in new form.

That’s why I’ll be announcing some new things coming up.

Watch for it!

The post Refuse to Submit to Limitations appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

I’ve spent much of the past weeks and months realizing that the circular motion of emotions I was in was indeed the upward and expanding spiral of life.

It should be no surprise.

Another birthday come & gone.

Another summer nearly the same.

Am I moving into the Autumn of life?

Many look at the calendar & say yes.

But I have much I still choose to do.

And I still see the spiral expanding;

Encompassing more and more every day.

More relationships. More expansion, More service. More Love.

Emotions:

Now, I get it.

The emotions are there. They’ll always be there.

In the duality of human existence, we must have the negatives.

Indeed the positives can’t exist without them. And they inform.

But as my spiritual mentor pointed out:

The scripture says: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil.. . ”

Notice: it says “I walk through.” I don’t pitch my tent there!

I move through, notice what I need to keep safe, and move beyond it.

In a philosophical sense, continue on the path through the valley, allowing the emotions to inform but not to rule.

So I ultimately emerge into the sunshine.

As I let go of what’s holding me back, I see my fears in a new and more discerning light.

In the valley, I learn appreciation, gratitude, and love are always there. They are internal & eternal.

They help ground me in my mission to continue to serve.

To be more authentically myself.

As I connect to this renewed sense of self, I can serve in deeper ways.

If your 3rd Act includes the desire to live more boldly, more audaciously, and leave your unique mark on the world, I’ll be announcing something over the next few weeks that will interest you.

Let me know if any of this strikes a chord with you.

The post Moving powerfully forward in your 3rd act appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

The Emotional Cost of Over-Commitment

Before diving into practical strategies, it’s crucial to acknowledge the emotional toll of constantly catering to others. Many moms find themselves stuck in a cycle of over-commitment, driven by societal expectations and familial obligations. This relentless focus on serving others can lead to resentment and burnout, impeding our progress, draining our energy, and leaving us anxious, depressed or both.

Emotional exhaustion is not just about feeling tired; it’s about the deep sense of being overwhelmed and unappreciated. Exhaustion stifles creativity, reduces productivity, and diminishes our overall well-being. It can also bring on real health consequences by helping to trigger inflammation, leading to dis-ease and eventually real disease processes. By recognizing and addressing these emotional barriers, we can begin to reclaim our energy and focus on what truly matters.

Tip 1: Schedule Regular Reflection Time

Finding time to periodically re-examine your tasks might seem daunting, but it’s a crucial step in eliminating unnecessary activities. Dedicate at least 30 minutes every week for reflection. Use this time to review your to-do list, assess your commitments, and determine what can be eliminated or delegated.

To make this a consistent habit, schedule it like any other important appointment. This regular reflection will help you stay aware of creeping commitments and ensure that you’re continually refining your focus on what truly matters.

Get the kids involved here by setting a family check-in time before or after you review your own obligations. Do the kids have events that require your assistance or transportation? Work with younger kids to be sure you both know who needs to be where and when. For teens, make it mandatory that they let you know when meetings, sports, or performances are with appropriate notice. Make it a non-negotiable that if they forget, they must find their own transportation. It’s just a natural repercussion 

Tip 2: Prioritize Tasks with the 4D’s Framework

One effective method to re-evaluate your tasks is the 4D’s framework: Do, Defer, Delegate, Delete. Here’s how it works:

• Do: Identify tasks that only you can do and are essential for your goals.
• Defer: Postpone tasks that are not urgent but need to be done eventually.
• Delegate: Assign tasks that can be done by someone else.
• Delete: Eliminate tasks that don’t add value to your goals or well-being.

Applying this framework during your reflection time helps you systematically address each task and make conscious decisions about your priorities.

Tip 3: Embrace the Art of Delegation

Delegation is not just about offloading tasks; it’s about empowering others and creating a support system. As a mom who has been through the trials of managing a household, I’ve learned, when my kids were teens, that delegation was essential. However, it can be challenging, as most teens today feel entitled to have what they want without contributing.

Teenagers need to understand that a household runs smoothly when everyone plays a part. This is not just about lightening your load but teaching them essential life skills. Teens who learn to contribute at home are better prepared for adulthood, where they won’t expect everything to be handed to them.
This may sound counter-intuitive, but I always looked at it as though it was my job to myself “useless” to my kids by the time they turned 18. If they could function adequately on their own when they moved, then I knew I had done my job. 

To delegate effectively:

• Create a Chore Chart: Develop a chore chart that outlines each family member’s responsibilities. Make sure tasks are age-appropriate and rotated regularly.
• Set Clear Expectations: Communicate why it’s important for everyone to pitch in. Explain that a family is a team, and everyone needs to contribute to make things work.
• Reward and Recognize Efforts: Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Praise their efforts and offer small rewards for consistent participation. This encourages a sense of accomplishment and responsibility.
• Lead by Example: Show your teens that you also have responsibilities and take them seriously. This sets a precedent for them to follow.
• Natural Repercussions: If your teens are uncooperative, let them experience the natural repercussions of their inaction. For example, if they don’t help with laundry, they might run out of clean clothes.  These natural consequences help them understand the importance of their contributions and the impact of their actions on their own lives.

Sometimes, you might have to coerce participation initially. It’s not always easy, and there might be resistance. 

I have a friend who got tired of picking up dirty dishes all over the house. They resolved the issue by packing up all the dishes and silverware except for one set per person, color-coded and assigned. It was the kids’ responsibility to take care of their own dishes. Period. End of statement.  

Stay firm but understanding and over time, this will become a natural part of your family routine.

Tip 4: Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No

One of the most challenging but essential skills is learning to say no. Setting boundaries is crucial to prevent over-commitment and protect your time and energy. Politely but firmly decline requests that don’t align with your priorities or add unnecessary stress.

Communicate your boundaries clearly; especially to your kids. Let them know your limits and the reasons behind them. This transparency fosters respect and understanding, making it easier to maintain your boundaries.

Tip 5: Practice Self-Compassion and Rest

Finally, give yourself permission to rest and practice self-compassion. Recognize that you are not obligated to do everything for everyone. Taking time for yourself is not selfish; it’s necessary for your well-being and effectiveness.

Incorporate rest into your routine, whether it’s through regular breaks, leisurely activities, or simply spending quiet time alone. Self-compassion involves being kind to yourself, acknowledging your efforts, and allowing yourself to recharge without guilt.

The Ripple Effect of Eliminating Unnecessary Tasks

By eliminating tasks that impede your progress and delegating effectively, you not only reclaim your time but also create a positive ripple effect in your life. You become more focused, productive, and energized, which enhances your overall quality of life. This renewed energy can be channeled into pursuing your passions, nurturing your relationships, and achieving your personal goals.

Moreover, setting a precedent of self-care and effective task management can inspire those around you. When you model these behaviors, you empower other women, especially your children, to do the same, creating a culture of balance and mutual support. If you have a teenage daughter, I don’t need to tell you the power of showing them, by example, how to say no. 

Conclusion

The journey to eliminating the barriers to progress and reclaiming your time is a continuous process of reflection, prioritization, and boundary-setting. By scheduling regular reflection time, using the 4D’s framework, embracing delegation, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion, you can break free from the cycle of over-commitment and emotional exhaustion. Remember, the goal is not to do more but to focus on what truly matters, creating a life that is fulfilling, balanced, and aligned with your values.

The post Breaking Free: Eliminating Barriers to Progress and Reclaiming Your Time  appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but it doesn’t mean we have to abandon our commitment to wholesome, healthy eating and living. Today, we’re going to unwrap the gift of mindful eating during the holidays. What if we could indulge in the joy of feasting while keeping our health goals in check? With just a little planning, it CAN be done. 

The Magic of Mindful Eating

The holiday season often brings an abundance of tempting treats, but approaching them with mindfulness can make a world of difference. (At the same time, let’s NOT go down the tunnel of perfectionism). Dive into the magic of mindful eating, where savoring each bite becomes a celebration in itself.  

Before we dive into the holiday whirlwind of festivities, let’s take a moment to unwrap the magic of mindful eating. In the midst of twinkling lights and joyous gatherings, practicing mindfulness can be your secret ingredient to truly savor the season without compromising your commitment to whole foods and a plant-based lifestyle.

The Art of Savoring:

Picture this: a warm, inviting plate adorned with vibrant colors and an array of textures. Mindful eating invites us to turn each bite into a celebration. Take your time to appreciate the flavors dancing on your taste buds, the aroma wafting through the air, and the joy of being present with loved ones. It’s not just a meal; it’s a sensory experience.

Tips for Mindful Eating:

• Slow Down: Amidst the hustle and bustle, consciously slow your pace. Put down the fork between bites and engage in conversation. This not only aids digestion but allows you to truly relish each morsel.
• Engage Your Senses: Close your eyes and savor the flavors. Notice the textures, the temperatures, and the subtle nuances of each ingredient. Engaging your senses heightens the pleasure of the dining experience.
• Recognize Fullness: Listen to your body’s cues. It takes time for your stomach to signal to your brain that it’s satisfied, up to 20 minutes or more. To avoid overindulging, tune into your body’s natural signals AND remember to stop BEFORE you are full. 

Whole Foods as a Canvas:

Now that we’ve set the stage with mindful eating, let’s talk about the starring role of whole foods in your holiday feast. Whole foods, in their unprocessed and natural state, not only offer a plethora of nutrients but also serve as a canvas for culinary creativity.

Celebrating Colorful Choices:

Whole foods come in a dazzling array of colors, each hue bringing its own set of health benefits. Embrace the rainbow on your plate by incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and healthy carbos.

Making Whole Foods Festive, Tasty AND Balanced

You knew I was going to say this sooner or later. . .  a festive holiday meal doesn’t require a dead bird on your plate! But like many of my clients, you may be unfamilar with how to get enough protein without it. 

Check out this healthy and attractive option:

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries: A Festive Plant-Based Protein Delight

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Acorn Squash:

• 3 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoons olive oil

For the Maple Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Prepare the Acorn Squash:
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place the halved acorn squashes on a baking sheet, cut side up.
  • Brush the inner flesh with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender.
• Cook the Wild Rice:
  • In a saucepan, combine the wild rice and vegetable broth.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
• Prepare the Filling:
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté onions, garlic, celery, and carrots until softened.
  • Add mushrooms and continue to cook until they release their moisture.
  • Stir in the cooked wild rice, black beans, cranberries, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
  • Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Assemble and Bake:
  • Once the acorn squash halves are tender, stuff each half with the wild rice mixture.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • Brush the glaze over the stuffed acorn squashes.
  • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
• Serve and Enjoy:
  • Carefully transfer the stuffed acorn squashes to a serving platter.
  • Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top.
  • Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
  • Serve warm and enjoy this festive, plant-based protein main dish with all the flavors of the season.

This Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries not only makes for a visually stunning centerpiece on your holiday table but also provides a hearty and protein-packed option for your plant-based feast.

Note:

One of the reasons I choose to keep my main course light is because it allows me indulge more in desserts! 

Watch for a rich and chocolatey dessert recipe in my next blog.

The post Nourishing the Holiday Spirit: A Mindful Approach to Holiday Delights appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

“So, Leslie, by when are you going to take some time for self-care.”

Ouch!

I could SEE the incredulous look on her face, despite the fact that she was actually on the telephone!

Two things were immediately obvious:

• She was right. I need to get back to my self-care routines.
• How her friend felt and what was going on for her were more important than making that next sale soon.
  Thanks, Jen.

I knew full well that I wasn’t going to get out for a bicycle ride, my #1 go-to for exercise (it was too late in the day), so I replied,

“Well, I could go for a short hike up Broderson before I go pick up my Talley Farms veggie box this afternoon.”

So I did.

Truth be told, my personal life has been fraught with a ton of changes and turmoil lately.
We recently sold the house that I my X and I shared for nearly 30 years and I’ve been looking for housing in the current environment, amidst clearing out 30 years’ worth of stuff.
That’s stressful enough on its own.
And I recently moved into a shared living situation tentatively. But I only planned to be here for a few months.

Now, because of the current market, I will likely be here longer than I originally anticipated. While the place isn’t terrible, it’s far from ideal for me.

I have had some other changes going on in my life and relationships as well.

Of course, when you’re self-employed there are always changes in business.

In short, It’s been a lot.

Suffice it to say that so much has been going on and I’ve gotten out of many of my routines.

Yes, even me.

The “in your face” reminder was exactly what I needed.

And I’m grateful.

So, I hung up the phone and completed a couple of other quick tasks. Then I got in the car and drove up to the Broderson trailhead. I was about 2 minutes into the walk when I realized I had left my phone in the car. Knowing full well I’d be tempted to just get back in the car if I returned to it, I just kept walking. So I can’t even tell you how far or how long I hiked.

All I know is it was short enough that it wasn’t dark when I got done and long enough that I felt about 50% better. The exercise had helped.

And the veggies also led me to have a decent meal for dinner. I did a quick stir fry of shishito peppers, broccoli & garlic, made a simple salad & added a little leftover braised tofu. I had a plate filled with delicious greens; another thing that hadn’t happened in several days.

Now, I know both from science and from my experience that greens really help clear your head. And I know the power of self-care. But I was too “in my head” to be present to that recently. Well, it did its magic.

I woke up this morning feeling significantly better.

I still don’t have all “the answers” to all the various dilemmas in my life.

But today I’m grateful for the opportunity to be in the learning & discovery stages about all of it.

And oh yeah, and I’m also grateful for the opportunity to show you that as a coach, I’m not very different from you.

Only that, I am usually more able to pick myself up quickly & get back on my feet (till the next time). And I usually know what to do to bring about the change in what I want to see & feel in both my mind and body. But I still do stumble and fall and I always will. It’s part of the human experience.

My self-care routines leave me feeling at peace in spite of life swirling around me. That can happen for you too.

I’d love to hear how you resonate with this little authenticity reveal.

And, if you mention my name when signing up for a Talley Farms veggie box, we each get $5 off our box. https://talleyfarmsfreshharvest.com/

The post Grudgingly Accepting My Own Medicine appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.

Why would I be anxious to tell you about my “defeat?”

Well, partly because I don’t really see it as a defeat.
I made a conscious choice not to continue.
But mostly because I want to let you know that when it comes to things health & wellness, I’m FAR from perfect.

You see, it’s come to my attention recently that some people feel self-conscious eating around me. My friend and business associate, Tyler recently admitted that she was uncomfortable sitting with me at a luncheon. Uncomfortable because she wondered if I was judging her because of the food on her plate or if she ate dessert.

And as I looked around at others, their smiles seems to acknowledge she wasn’t the only one!

Ugh! NO! I don’t judge you.

You make your choices and you live with the consequences of them.
Sometimes those consequences are health-enhancing. And sometimes, less so.

Besides, my family will readily tell you I’m a chocolate addict.

It only took me nearly 60 years to find the right balance between how much chocolate I eat, how much bicycling I do, and how much other fatty foods I eat.
That balance allows me to keep my weight in check and keep my blood chemistries where I want to see them.

But really, the point is that I can’t judge people. Whether they are friends, clients or even family.

If I do, they will never be able to be authentic with me. And that’s not the relationship I strive for with anyone. And certainly not the relationship I could have with a client.

And another thing: the family part of this equation has been the most difficult part to get to. Sometimes I still stumble here. The line between wanting to advocate for someone you love and judging them about their choice is a very fine line indeed.

The thing I’ve come to with this is that I want them to treat their bodies with love and care. By doing so, they are more likely to be able to continue to do all the things they want and have a body and mind that supports them.

AND I can’t judge them if they choose to do things I wouldn’t.

So I continue to answer my brother’s questions about his health issues. Even so, I know it’s unlikely that he’ll address the problem beyond symptomatic relief.

And I continue to not butt in where I’m not asked for advice with my kids; difficult though it may be.

And I continue to acknowledge my defeats and setbacks so that others feel comfortable if they “fail” according to their own terms, in my presence. 

So eat that ice cream in front of me. I may care but as a mentor once taught me,
“I care but I don’t carry.” (Meaning I won’t care more than you about any aspect of your life.)
And I won’t judge you for it.

The post Imperfection without Judgment- The Human Side of Healthy appeared first on Dr Leslie K. Empowered Wellness.