Health Coaches go to Washington!

It’s been a big week for the Integrative Nutrition community, as several of our graduates met with members of Congress and their staff to educate them on the work Health Coaches do to promote health and wellness across the country.

2009 graduate Holli Thompson first led a successful “Smoothies & Superfoods 101” workshop with many Congressional offices in attendance. Staff members were enthusiastic to learn about the importance of health coaching and, of course, enjoy Holli’s delicious concoctions!

2007 graduate Kerrie Martin then led a “Slow on the Go” workshop educating members of Congress on effective and proven technique to lower stress levels and increase productivity. It was an important opportunity to showcase the holistic scope of health coaching and emphasize that health goes far beyond standard nutrition guidelines.

As the United States faces skyrocketing rates of obesity, type 2 diabates, hypertension, and other preventable chronic illnesses, it’s essential for the American government to get behind a more preventive healthcare system.

We’re so thrilled with the support we’ve received in Washington so far. In January, we celebrated the first ever National Health Coach Week with Congressional recognition. In a letter shared with Integrative Nutrition, U.S. Representative Tim Ryan congratulated Health Coaches on the importance of their work:

“The United States faces a health crisis due in large part to the prevalence of costly chronic conditions, which are largely brought on by poor lifestyle choices… It is vital that Health and Wellness Coaches continue to expand their good work, the nation needs it … I want to congratulate the progress made by Health and Wellness Coaches and wish them the best during National Health and Wellness Coach Week.”

Health Coaches are gaining more recognition than ever for the important role they play in reversing the health crisis, and after workshops like these, we expect this awareness to only grow in Washington.

We’re so proud of our alumni and the work they’re doing to spread a ripple effect of health and happiness around the world. We’re at the forefront of a health revolution and together, we are strong!