Sally’s Wellbeing journey

Sally has completed the Mid-Sussex wellbeing service and has been happy to share some of her experiences with us and the positive results she has seen since taking part.

What did you enjoy about the programme?

I thoroughly enjoyed the chats. I found my health coach, Matt, to be genuinely interested in my welfare and how I had been progressing each session. There was never an agenda and the conversations were well facilitated. I particularly liked the structure of our sessions. I was given practical and helpful tips and strategies which I then applied to my everyday life which helped me on my way to achieving my health goals. My health goals were set out at the beginning of the programme and it gave me a great focus to change my behaviours subtly day by day. Matt supported and motivated me throughout, which is exactly what I needed. The flexibility of the service was a plus point too. I have a busy work schedule and to know that I could quickly rearrange if needed certainly took the pressure off the sessions and my workload.

What changes did you make to your lifestyle?

My main aim was to lose some weight to help me reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The biggest change in I made to reduce my risk was to move more! Matt got me moving more, which I am so glad about. This was a positive step in the right direction. I used to procrastinate exercising but now I do online exercise videos 3-5 times per week and I feel so much better for it. I feel more energised and generally fitter. This was a tremendous achievement for me.
I am now more aware of portion control and subsequently my energy balance throughout a day. I understand that what I eat has consequences. I feel I have more knowledge to make informed decisions around food for the better. I feel a lot healthier in 3 months that I have been on the programme.

What challenges did you face with the programme, and how did you overcome them?

I think having the motivation to get going and to start making some changes was difficult. This was helped by taking it slow and steady, with small smart goals and talking over any concerns with Matt. I’m going to continue with setting goals as it keeps me on track.

What changes have you seen in any measurements that have been taken?

I would say my body shape has changed for the better. I feel and look more toned. I also feel fitter and stronger when doing daily activities and exercises.

Do you have any advice for those starting the programme?

Matt was a big factor for my own personal journey and really got me thinking about making some changes and then actioning them in my own time. As I mentioned earlier, it got me moving which has been beneficial for my physical and mental health, so I would recommend the service if you have a similar health goal.

I would add that Matt has been knowledgeable throughout and given me some practical solutions/tips to take into my daily life. I like how he talks from experiences and related it to my situation. There was no judgement on the calls, just a friendly ear. I would highly recommend the service.