Sharina Arceneaux is Methodist Health: Embracing change.

By Sharina Arceneaux

Sharina is an education specialist in Nursing Administration at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. Because Sharina has a family history of heart disease, she’s ready to take on the challenge of living a heart-healthy lifestyle.

 1.   Congratulations on reaching month four of I am Methodist Health. We want specifics this month. What can you do now that you couldn’t do three months ago?  

My physical endurance has increased drastically. I am able to work out longer and harder. I haven’t done that since my cheerleading days!

2.  What is the most important aspect of your program that keeps you on track? Why and how does that affect your progress?

Counting my caloric intake using the app called MyFitnessPal is one of the most important factors in keeping me on track. I make wiser decisions when I know the nutritional content of my food choices. MyFitnessPal has been a real eye-opener because some items that I would expect to be healthy are actually very high in calories, carbohydrates, and sugar.

3.  Give me specific tips of what you’re doing to make better food choices or to increase or maintain your exercise activity?  

1.  Every Sunday I set a workout schedule for the week to ensure I get three to four days of exercise, along with the activity that I will complete each day.

2.  I also try to plan all of my meals on Sunday. I measure/weigh my food and distribute snacks in bags or containers by the day so I won’t be tempted to buy junk food when I have cravings. This has helped me stay on track.

4.  If your co-workers want to get started on their wellness program, what should they do? Whom do they call? Where do they start?

They can definitely call me for support and advice — and they already have. I’ve received several calls and have been stopped in the hallway because people want to know what I did to lose the weight. They can also contact Karen Taylor to get started on their journey. The most important thing for them to know is that it is a process. There are no quick fixes.       

In March, my biggest sense of accomplishment came when I went shopping for clothes. In the past, I despised the dressing room. This time, though, everything I tried on was actually TOO BIG! I have dropped two sizes and I am so excited!