It’s rare to meet someone who truly loves what they do, every single day, despite the obstacles life has thrown in their path. Kate Henninger, a 2011 grad residing in Houston, Texas, finds joy in the work she does each day as a Health Coach. After being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease at a young age and developing lupus, she discovered the value of wellness and finding passion in daily life. Since completing the Health Coach Training Program, Kate has learned how to take better care of herself and is now sharing this lesson with others through her developing Health Coach practice. Read more about Kate’s story and her goals for the future below!

What were you doing before Integrative Nutrition? 

Before Integrative Nutrition, I was teaching first graders in a public school, but with an eye on shifting my focus toward a profession in the health industry. I had become a Bikram yoga instructor while also teaching school. IIN was a very important step towards my goal to follow a more authentic career path. IIN has opened up so many new doors in my life and has allowed me to find a more flexible work schedule and most importantly, to work in a field I am deeply passionate about at a time when, I feel now more than ever, people truly need support and guidance to find greater balance and wellness. Thanks to IIN, the work I do now is deeply gratifying! 

What led you to explore Integrative Nutrition's program?

At age 26, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease – cancer of the lymph system. Having this profound experience with illness, I realized at a fairly young age how precious life is and how vital good health and proper nutrition are. Unfortunately, maybe as a result from the treatment I received for Hodgkin's disease, I developed lupus. I learned that doctors do not always hold the answers to health and wellness. We are our own best healers! Through the exploration of yoga and metaphysics, my life opened up in new ways and I was able to finally give myself permission to work in the field where my true passion lay. A friend mentioned Integrative Nutrition's program to me, I signed up, resigned from my teaching position, and have not looked back!

What has happened since you enrolled in Integrative Nutrition's program?

Through the great guidance of Integrative Nutrition, I have started my own health coaching business. I have worked with a number of clients, one of whom was featured with me on ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX news programs around the country, about the benefits of working with a Health Coach and proper nutrition. I continue to develop my health coaching practice and hope to host a radio program that explores topics pertaining to health and wellness in the Houston area. Someday, I hope to have my own healing and wellness center in Costa Rica! 

What did you learn at Integrative Nutrition?

Through Integrative Nutrition's amazing curriculum and education, I have learned many things about true wellness. So much so that when I went to my rheumatologist this summer and she checked all my blood work, there were no signs of lupus or any other imbalances! My biggest lesson this year has been learning how to take care of myself, to be gentle with myself, to nurture and love myself and make the time in my life for breath, for sunshine, friendship and love, gratitude and reflection. I was always a person who pushed myself too hard. Learning to slow down, to rest and feed myself well, these have been the most valuable lessons I have gained from this past year at Integrative Nutrition, and these are the lessons I hope to share with others. 

What do you love about the school?

Aside from all the great knowledge I have gained by studying at Integrative Nutrition, I am so happy to be part of an organization and a movement with the purpose of improving people's lives in such a profound and significant way! We live in an exciting time of increased awareness and higher consciousness and I love working with a group of people who are helping to create that momentum. 

Is there a need for Health Coaches where you live? 

Absolutely. People lead stressful lives, they drive everywhere in their cars as opposed to walking or riding their bikes and getting outdoors, and they eat out more often than not. Many people in Houston and the surrounding areas struggle with their weight, as well as the health concerns resulting from a poor diet and from living a life that is out of balance. 

What do you love about your work?

I was getting ready one afternoon to meet a client at the park to walk with her and have our coaching session. I felt this wellspring of joy as I prepared for the session, truly looking forward to the opportunity to help another person feel better and find ways to be healthier. It is tremendously gratifying work! Each time I meet with a client and her eyes are brighter, her skin is better, she is sleeping better and beginning to feel more alive, it just gives me great joy to be able to give in that way to others. 

Tell us about your practice.

I work primarily with women who are struggling with their relationship with food, with their ability to nurture themselves, with finding balance in their lives, or who may be dealing with chronic illness. As their Health Coach, I guide them on their path to wholeness, self-acceptance and vibrant health and energy!