Introduction

Welcome to my health and wellness blog! I am thrilled to embark on this journey with you as we explore the transformative power of embracing a Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle. As a Health Coach based in vibrant Atlanta, Georgia, I am deeply passionate about guiding individuals like you towards achieving optimal health and well-being.

Allow me to introduce myself: my name is Zoie and I moved to Atlanta about two years ago from New York City. Originally from northern New Jersey, I was always an athlete and played most sports throughout my life but ultimately shifted my focus to Field Hockey. Sports and anything athletic came naturally to me and I was super energetic so I basically ate whatever I wanted, since I was in constant movement anyway. When I went to college and sports ended - late night calzones and pizza worked it’s magic and I gained a little weight freshman year. I immediately began eating “healthy” (by a college freshman’s standard) and working out. The working out part was easy - my dad was an ex-body builder and my brother a college football player I could easily go to them for help. Naturally, I had the discipline and resources (incorporating weight training before it was a trend) to get to where I wanted to be from an aesthetic perspective.

Fast forward to my early 20s in NYC - 6am gym, work all day, happy hour and dinner. It was non-stop all the time. Fully embracing the NYC lifestyle, there would be days we partied until 6am and then we would wake up - eat a hardy breakfast, drink water, head out the gym, brunch and round and round we go. Until one day in my mid twenties I realized I was miserable. The constant go, go, go mentality; using all my money on dinners and drinks; too much surface level conversation with acquaintances was draining me. Of course there were amazing times - memories made with my best friends from high school and college and new friends, dancing until the early morning, and great stories to last me a lifetime. But it wasn’t enough anymore. I craved coming home from work and making a nice meal, stability, and routine. If I went out, I wanted it to be more substantial and mindful. And thus - my real health journey began. I started inviting people to workout classes instead of dinners, coffees instead of drinks, and walks to catch up instead of partying. It was at this time I realized something special.

See, I realized I had a very lucky situation growing up. Coming from a Mediterranean background (Greek/Italian) - the foods I ate at home were still very balanced. Sure I had my days when we would go eat pizza or hibachi. But during the week our meals typically consisted of vegetables, grains, and lean protein. We ate a lot of pasta with homemade sauces and olive oil was/is life. Fast food was only allowed on a special occasion (good report cards or serious bargaining). We still had sweets in the house but we would eat it only after we completely finished dinner. We sat at the table as a family - no TV and no phones (not that we had them). This was a luxury I wasn’t aware of at the time and I grow more and more grateful of every day (thanks Mom!).

But what exactly does it mean to have a Mediterranean twist to your health coaching practice? Well, it's about incorporating the best of what the Mediterranean region has to offer in terms of nutrition, movement, community, and overall lifestyle choices. And it goes beyond just the cuisine—it's a holistic approach that embraces the principles found in the renowned Blue Zones.

So, what are these Blue Zones, you may wonder? Blue Zones are specific regions across the globe where people live significantly longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. These regions have caught the attention of researchers and health enthusiasts alike, as they provide valuable insights into the secrets of longevity and well-being.

Drawing inspiration from the Blue Zones, I have integrated their principles into my health coaching practice to help you attain sustainable and lasting lifestyle changes. By adopting the Mediterranean way of life, we can tap into the wisdom of these thriving communities and enhance our overall quality of life.

As your Health Coach, my goal is to guide you through personalized strategies and support that align with your unique needs and goals. Together, we will navigate the vast landscape of health and wellness, focusing on key areas such as nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and cultivating a sense of purpose.

Here on this blog, I will be sharing a wealth of knowledge, practical tips, and delicious recipes that showcase the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. You can expect articles on the health benefits of specific ingredients, mindful eating practices, mindful movement, building community connections, and so much more. I aim to empower you with the tools and knowledge needed to make informed decisions and create positive changes in your life.

Whether you're seeking to lose weight, increase your energy levels, manage stress, or simply improve your overall well-being, I am here to offer guidance, support, and motivation every step of the way. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit.

Thank you for joining me on this exciting adventure towards a healthier and happier you. Together, let's embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle and unlock the secrets to vitality and longevity.

Stay tuned for future blog posts where we delve deeper into the fascinating world of Mediterranean wellness. Until then, remember that small steps can lead to significant changes, and each day is an opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being.

To your radiant health,
Zoie