Name: Cristina Pilo

Location: Miami, Florida, United States

Instagram: @cristinapilo

Website: cristinapilo.com

Q: What inspired you to enroll at IIN?

A: I used to be a very picky eater as a kid, which translated into becoming a very picky adult eater. I was and still am a makeup artist and beauty connoisseur, and as my business grew, I found that my clients and I were transforming our time together into therapy sessions around life! My clients were asking for advice as I was doing their makeup, and I realized I wanted the tools to better support them.

Q: How are you using your Health Coach Training Program education?

A: I work one-on-one with clients one day a week, and I’ve also launched a support group that I run once a month, supporting clients with a month’s worth of healthy habits. I share my journey and healthy habits on social media to inspire others, and I help women find and connect with themselves deeply through makeup, beauty tips, and more.

Q: How did your understanding of spirituality expand upon taking the program?

A: As an atheist/agnostic person, I believe in spirituality as a connection with myself and the Earth. I started meditating and practicing grounding exercises, and I respect what the Earth and the sun do for us every day.

Q: Did IIN help you find a way of eating that works for you? If so, tell us more about that journey.

A: I was already practicing intermittent fasting and living a gluten-free life. But it helped me better understand the decisions I was making and how to approach others about those decisions.

Q: How do you nourish yourself beyond your plate with primary food?

A: The main thing I do to nourish myself with primary food is, I respect my time. I used to put work first, and now I’m learning to put myself first. For example, if I’m not feeling well enough to work out, I still use those 15‒45 minutes for myself: I take a longer shower, spend time with my husband, cook something I really want to eat, etc. I’ve come to learn that my time is always mine.

Q: How are you living a life you love? How did the program help you achieve this?

A: It first helped me understand the concept of primary food, which then translated into better understanding the body as a whole. I completely changed the way I eat and live my life. I’m able to help my friends and family, and I also changed the way I approach makeup and beauty. It’s not just about the makeup anymore; it’s about the opportunity to connect with another human and listen to their story.

Q: Health is not a destination; it’s an evolution and a journey. How does this resonate with you?

A: Not only is health not a destination, but the journey changes constantly. What worked for me last month is probably not going to work again today. Learning to listen to our bodies, environment, and everything around us is key. Pick your battles, because it’s impossible to be perfect. Knowledge gave me the ability to make informed decisions and be prepared for the consequences, without the guilt.

Q: If you could tell your pre-IIN self one thing, what would it be?

A: You’re never going to have enough time, so do it now.

Q: What’s your morning routine?

A: I wake up at 6:30am and feed the dogs, and while the coffee is brewing, I listen to a morning meditation podcast. I drink half a glass of water before I sit down with my three dogs and drink my coffee. I catch up with social media for about 30 minutes. Then I work out for 15‒45 minutes and complete a 10-minute meditation. Then I take a shower and take my supplements, and it’s time to start the day!

Q: What music do you play to get out of a funk?

A: If I’m in the mood for dancing, some Spanish rock from the early 2000s gets me dancing!

Q: What’s your favorite on-the-go snack?

A: Yuca chips and plantain chips.

Q: What’s one thing you can’t run your business without?

A: My health.

Q: We’re calling our IIN graduates and community members Well BeIINgs. How do you embody well-being?

A: Being a free, happy person, invested in myself, my family, and my community. I’m doing the work I love every day.

You can start living a life you love, right now. Take our free Sample Class to dive in.