Why did I find it essential in my life’s work to own an integrative health center, become a health coach, and be a founding member of The Missouri Nutrition Alliance? The simple answer is because I believe in the healing power of community.
On a personal level, I chose to transform a life-altering health experience into businesses, designed to build communities and improve health overall. I have had the opportunity to be a patient at the Mayo Clinic and see first-hand an integrative approach to healthcare. Through my personal experience, I have found that with whole foods, a nutrient-dense diet, lowering my stress, finding simplicity in the kitchen, and implementing a high level of self-care, I am thriving.
As a patient, I worked with physicians, physical therapists, nutrition professionals, and other health care providers, who were all an integral part of my healing, and I am grateful every day for my healthcare team.
As I was on my health journey, there was still a missing piece for me in my health plan, and that was accountability and a different approach to evidence-based support – a coach to guide me. I found that missing piece in Jessica Idleman, who I ended up working with for a few years. It completely changed the way I approached every aspect of my health – it was the missing piece.
While running 2B Well, I decided to continue my education and become a health coach. Because of my continued healing, I am surrounded by a community that supports each other on a path of health, healing, and light. This community of people are my YAY people. Not everyone has to agree, but we are moving in the same direction and supporting each other.
A dictionary definition for a community “is a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.”
It is evident that being in a community of people on a healing journey help all involved.
Being a health coach at my business Living Light has been a life-changing experience. Taking my struggles and turning those into my life’s calling is a true blessing. I love to lead sessions with authenticity, simplicity, and a genuine desire to help people to be happy, healthy, and whole.
My intention is always to speak from my heart. I share my passions for mindfulness and spiritual connection in all aspects of life, from our food to our thoughts to our relationships. Gathering in the kitchen is an excellent way for me to begin to show how being in a community can heal.
Time expands when you’re utilizing your gifts. I will admit when Jessica Idleman, who was that life-changing relationship for me, approached me about this non-profit she was called to start, I was very excited about the project. I also questioned if I would have enough time to devote to this organization. Regardless my answer was a definite yes.
I knew I would be involved, but I am surprised how much this is filling me up. The Missouri Nutrition Alliance speaks directly to what I value. Putting on our first event, I knew I had come home to my YAY people. I am in a community of people doing what I love. I think many people have gotten away from the joy of being with people in the community. We are not meant to do this alone. The MNA is a great cause that I am proud to be a part of in Missouri.
“In continuous health, healing and light, we heal through community support”
Brandy Lane Hickman
Inspired Nutrition, Health & Life Coach, Living Light
(417)861-6682 | brandy@2bwellspringfield.com