Sharina Arceneaux is Methodist Health: Key Learnings.

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 met the challenge to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. 1. What’s the most important takeaway you’ve learned in this program that you’ll use to stay on track the rest of your life? This program has definitely taught me that maintaining a healthier lifestyle is really SIMPLE. It doesn’t take rocket science to figure it out. Everyone asks me what did I do to lose the weight, and I always respond, “I eat right and work out. That’s it!” Although the program is over, I continue to exercise as much as possible and still weigh myself weekly. In fact, I look forward to getting on the scale every Tuesday morning. I’m maintaining my weight loss and I am so excited. 2. Out with the old. In with the new. Give me three new healthy habits you’ve incorporated into your life. I continue to stay active, eat healthy, and count my calories. All are easy things that make a huge difference. 3. Tell us at least three improvements you have accomplished in this program. My total cholesterol decreased from 248 to 151, which is the main reason I needed this program. I cannot explain how this is such a relief. When the doctor prescribed cholesterol medicine for me at the age of 28, I knew something had to change. I’ve also lost a total of 15 pounds and 4 inches from my waist. Woo-hoo! 4. What are the advantages of having the support of a health coach and trainer? Why? A health coach and trainer are knowledgeable in the areas of nutrition and exercise. They were able to explain things to me from a real world point of view. I truly appreciate everything they have done. It is important to know they can’t do the work for you. They can only provide you with the tools you need. The rest is up to you. 5. Hats off to you. Congratulations. Way to go! Now that you’ve completed this program, what’s your next goal to continue to improve your health? Thanks so much! I am going to continue my new habits so that I can maintain my healthy lifestyle. I’m also preparing to participate in a 5K mud run in September, which will be so much FUN!