“Stick with it. It is totally worth it.”
Making healthy changes in life is not always an easy thing to do. But, in most cases, the effort is worth it. Just ask Brooke Barton, administrative assistant in the Office of the Dean of Students.
Brooke started her health journey at age 18. She was overweight as a teenager, and she didn’t feel as though she was in control of her own life. It was tough, but she decided to take a leap by changing her diet. She first tried Adkins, but as time went on she realized the value in eating whole foods. She gained energy and also gained the love for cooking. Now, Brooke incorporates vegetables into her meals on a daily basis. She looks online for new recipes and loves to try to new things and get creative.
In addition to a healthy diet, Brooke is a member of a local gym. A friend reached out to her and asked her to join, and that’s all it took to get her motivated for exercise. She enjoys high intensity workouts, lifting weights, and yoga as it gives her a “break from the world.” She now feels sluggish if a few days pass without physical activity. It truly contributes to her happiness.
The path hasn’t been simple every step of the way. Brooke says the hardest part for her is social gatherings. Trying to keep healthy habits around others who aren’t on the same journey is difficult, but sticking with it has paid off.
Brooke is also dedicated to staying healthy at work . She brings her lunch almost every day or will travel to Whole Foods for a nutritious option. She keeps a large water bottle at her desk and challenges herself to finish it twice before she leaves for the day. During the warmer months, she walks outside during her lunch break as it serves as both physical activity and stress management. Finally, she uses a stretch clock, which reminds her once per hour to get up and stretch at her desk.
I was inspired by Brooke as she sees her wellness as a lifelong journey, not with one destination, but with many milestones that involve constant learning and experimenting. Brooke’s advice for those getting started:
“Be okay with where you are now, and try not to focus on quick fixes. They don’t last long term. Be proud of the little accomplishments. I started running one block at a time, and I felt incredible when I hit my first mile. “
Wonderful work, Brooke!