Just another tree sprouting from the ground =)
Inspiration #1) God
In high school I ate dim sum for lunch one day and went running outside a few hours later. A few minutes into my run, I started losing air in my throat, my body started burning in pain, and my vision kept fading. Eventually, I just collapsed on the sidewalk, fading in and out of consciousness. That was the first time I prayed. I said, “I don’t know if you exist God, but I’m scared and I need your help. Please, help me.” Someone from the neighborhood saw me on the ground and called an ambulance. I was taken to a hospital for anaphylaxis, an exercise-induced severe allergy attack (which I never knew I had). I think my prayer was answered.
Even after that experience, I went through phases of indifference, objection, denial, and hate towards God. My relationship with God didn’t actually begin until I accepted Christ into my heart almost 10 years later (a whole other story). Since then, I have transformed from the inside. I have peace when things don’t go according to my plans. I found more love in my heart for others around me and for myself. And most importantly, I have purpose. Not to make a ton of money, buy fancy things, or be some professional athlete… but to strive towards Colossians 3:12 in everything I do: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” It is a work in progress, but I am trying and that is enough.
My wonderful family (notice how none of the kids are looking!).
Inspiration #2) Family
I cannot say enough about each member of my extended family pictured above. They are the definition of love, generosity, sacrifice, dedication, and committment. They have been supportive of me through everything, from spontaneous and impulsive desires such as going skydiving, to leaving 10 years of elementary school teaching so I could teach fitness, to helping me overcome an emotional bed-ridden pregnancy and transition to becoming a mother. I am who I am today because of their positive influence in my life.
Sherry Han is an amazing yoga teacher who kept me healthy and strong during pregnancy!
Inspiration #3) Sherry Han
My yoga teacher, Sherry Han, is a true yogi unlike any other. She has that “sixth sense” to see, feel, and understand your body, knowing what is hurting you, and what can heal you. She is driven by genuine love and concern for each of her students and she speaks the truth without any sugar coating. Sherry is a creator, designing new yoga poses and sequences each week, and she is an instrument of change. Practicing yoga with Sherry is a blessing and a gift. Sherry always says, “Make the impossible possible.”
Michelle and I on the set of the Bodyfit 360 DVD.
Inspiration #4) Michelle Dozois
My incredible fitness mentor is Michelle Dozois. Michelle and her husband are the owners of Breakthru Fitness in Pasadena. Michelle is an extraordinary fitness instructor and choreographer, and is a positive, encouraging speaker who motivates tons of people to get fit. In fact, she created the Peak Fit System, which is a super intense cardio and strength workout that is FUN at the same time. Not to mention, she’s sold a couple million (yes, million) fitness home videos and was the National and World Aerobic Champion at one point. Michelle is just amazing and I am fortunate that our paths crossed.
You can see my “third eye!”
Inspiration #5) YOU.
I learn a little something about myself and about others from every person I meet. I am grateful for whatever brought you here at this very moment.
I see you. I respect you. I honor you.
