Why I Left Education and Began My Wellness Journey

Why I Left Education and Began My Wellness Journey

After over 25 years in education as a teacher and then principal, I made the decision to step away from a career that had shaped so much of my life. Education was more than just a job; it was a calling. Guiding young minds, supporting families, and fostering a community of learning were deeply fulfilling. But over time, the demands of the profession took a toll on my well-being. Like many women in midlife, I found myself navigating significant changes—both personally and physically. I realized that in giving so much to others, I had neglected my own health and happiness.

My journey into wellness was born from necessity. As I transitioned through menopause, I faced unexpected challenges that impacted my mental and physical health. I knew I wasn’t alone. Countless women go through this journey feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and misunderstood. I became determined to not only help myself but also to create a community where women could find support, understanding, and empowerment.

Why I Started Bloom Health and Wellness

Bloom Health and Wellness was born out of my passion for holistic well-being and my desire to help women, particularly those 45 and older, reclaim their health and happiness. I wanted to create a space where women could openly discuss the realities of menopause, mental health, and aging without shame or stigma. My background in education equipped me with the skills to teach, inspire, and build communities—skills that are now the cornerstone of my wellness business.

I also realized that traditional healthcare approaches were not addressing the unique needs of women in midlife. I became certified in health and wellness coaching, holistic menopause coaching, designing nutrition plans, meditation, breath work, and yoga. My goal was to provide a comprehensive and compassionate approach to wellness that acknowledges the mind-body connection and the power of community support.

The Importance of Holistic Well-Being, Mental Health, Lifestyle Medicine, and Community in Midlife

Midlife is often painted as a time of decline, but I see it as an opportunity for growth, renewal, and empowerment. Holistic well-being is not just about physical health but also mental and emotional resilience. For women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and the empty nest phase, mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and loneliness can be overwhelming. I know this firsthand, having faced my own struggles with mental health during menopause.

Lifestyle medicine offers powerful tools to navigate these changes. By focusing on nutrition, movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connections, women can not only manage symptoms but also thrive. It’s about making sustainable changes that enhance quality of life.

Community is the heart of Bloom Health and Wellness. Women need a safe space to share their stories, ask questions, and feel understood. Building a supportive community empowers women to face challenges with confidence and courage.

Sneak Peek into the Blog

My blog will be a place of education, inspiration, and connection. You can expect topics ranging from practical tips on managing menopause symptoms to exploring the mind-body connection through yoga and meditation. I’ll be sharing insights on lifestyle medicine and the importance of mental health in midlife. There will be candid discussions about the emotional realities of aging, including loneliness, identity shifts, and finding purpose in the empty nest phase.

I’ll also share personal stories about my journey from educator to wellness coach, my experiences as a divorced hockey mom, and my love for the Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota. It’s a place where I feel most at peace, and I’ll be writing about how nature can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.

Bloom Health and Wellness is more than just a business—it’s a community and a movement dedicated to helping women in midlife bloom beyond societal expectations and limitations. I’m excited to share this journey with you and to create a space where we can learn, grow, and support each other.

Welcome to Bloom and Beyond.