Working with a Wellness Coach

Fitness 135
Fitness 135

Working out with a personal trainer is a great way to keep up on your physical health but, as we have all learned in recent years, taking care of your body is only one aspect of your overall well-being. There are things such as mental, emotional and spiritual wellness that are just as important, and that is where a wellness coach comes in.

A wellness coach is someone who can help you stay on top of your health – inside and out. They can work with you to come up with specific goals and they can help you create a plan to ensure that you follow through on reaching those goals. They can be there for support, encouragement and companionship. Some have the means to provide you with specific resources, while others may have religious know-how to help guide you spiritually. Many have specialized training in specific areas of wellness, too.

How do I find a wellness coach?

Searching the internet will turn up an endless list of people who call themselves “wellness coaches.” However, one of the best ways to seek out an expert who you will like and work well with is to get a personal recommendation. Ask them for references so that you can reach out to others who have hired that person and find out why they liked their approach. First-hand experiences will help you better choose the best wellness coach for you.

Some career centres or health-care providers may also be able to provide recommendations.

Also, check out what type of specialties these coaches have. Some are more health and science focused, while others take a more holistic approach. Perhaps you would prefer a religion-based wellness plan.

And what are their credentials? Perhaps they have certain certifications or training that align with your goals.

How do you choose the best wellness approach?

A few factors will influence the work that you might do with a wellness coach. First of all, budget: how much can you afford to spend on this kind of service? Depending on who you choose to work with and what their hourly fee is, you can then determine the plan of action that works best for you (and won’t break the bank).

Not all wellness training has to take place in person – maybe you can communicate virtually through video calls and then carry out the actual “work” yourself. If you’re willing to work with someone remotely, it opens up your potential choice of wellness coaches to the whole world!

What are your goals with a wellness coach?

Wellness coaches can help you with myriad tasks and challenges. Maybe you’d like to get healthier physically – they can work with you to set fitness goals, create a more active routine and track your progress. They can help you explore more nutritious food options and assist you in menu planning.

Has your mental health taken a back seat in recent years? You can work with a wellness expert to find more opportunities for socializing. Explore individual and group therapy options. Or just reap the benefits of having someone to confide in.

If it’s something that will improve any facet of your life, if it will make you happier and more content, if it will give you hope and purpose, then a wellness coach can help you get there. Give your well-being the love and attention it deserves.

By Jennifer Cox