It’s more important than ever for our communities to be proactive in finding a partner in wellness. Here at Skagit Regional Health, we have the people, resources and expertise to be that partner in your life. 

There are many ways to incorporate healthy changes into your life. Thank you to Holly Nielsen, BS, MA, Ph.D., Clinical Manager of the Mental Health Center at Skagit Valley Hospital for sharing her health journey. 

Why is health a priority for you?
My health took a back seat for years, while I finished my Ph.D., worked full time and our boys were younger. About three years ago, I took charge of my diet and exercise and became healthy again. I was overweight, diagnosed with arthritis and struggling with back issues. It was a rude awakening that I needed to change everything I was doing. Working in healthcare and having a physically demanding job requires me to be on my ‘A game’ for both my mind and body. Exercising daily has reduced my stress and anxiety, and has given me more energy. Maintaining this has not been easy and some days I could easily find excuses for not being active. I have learned much of this can be a mental challenge too. I changed my diet to a lower carb and higher protein. It’s been life-changing for me and I’m so proud of who I have become. I now am in great shape and I feel strong.

What are ways that you weave activities into your daily life?
I get some form of exercise six days a week. Being a mom with a busy career forces me to manage my time wisely. I am often in the gym during the early morning hours before others are up. I found that I enjoy lifting weights, using the stair-master, running, golfing, walking the dogs and most recently hiking. I have made gradual goals for myself to accomplish and just go for them. I am a very dedicated and determined individual, so if I make a goal for myself, I will achieve it. Mind over matter and no excuses anymore. In the last couple years, I have weight trained almost four to five days a week, trained for a marathon and most recently made a goal of hiking weekly.

Thank you, Holly, for sharing your Be Well story. We’re cheering you on as you keep up the great work on your journey!

Skagit Regional Health is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The ideas, opinions and stories shared by the Be Well Staff Profile participants are their own and do not constitute endorsement by Skagit Regional Health. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, disability or any other protected characteristic as outlined by organizational policy and federal, state or local laws.