Graduate Spotlight
Michele Batz, M.S. in Holistic Nutrition
“What Are You Waiting For?”
Michele Batz believes that everybody needs to play every day — and so that’s what she does. Her workplace attire is active–wear; her work–day “projects” are always in motion. As a physical education teacher for children ranging from kindergarten to preteen, Michele’s joy is to empower young people with the wisdom of self–care, alongside physical movement and invigorating music.
For instance — inspired by J.D. Hughes’ No Standing Around in My Gym, she helps students build cardiovascular fitness while also raising self–esteem, with a game called Dr. Feel–Good. “We start with two teams, two clinics, and three ‘doctors’ on scooters,” Michele explains. “A ball is rolled and its target is taken to the ‘E.R.’ There each child is told to ‘heal thyself’ by completing 10 jumping jacks, sit–ups or push–ups (the student’s choice). It’s upbeat and fun. We mix things up by changing the music.”
Michele earned her B.S. degree in the early ’80s and varied her career between teaching children and working as a professional athletic trainer. As she established her own family, she felt drawn to helping youngsters develop healthier lifestyles, and that’s when a friend recommended CCNH. “Soon I was incorporating my fitness writings with earning an M.S. in Holistic Nutrition. I loved the coursework and the user–friendly approach so much that I’ve continued as a student in Clayton’s Ph.D. program. I value being able to study from home and be with my family. My school system acknowledges this learning process,” she adds, “with pay raises as my studies progress.”
As a freelance fitness writer, another motivating factor hits close to home. “Some of my closest relatives died from cancer. I’ve seen people who think aging automatically equals loss: of energy, physical and mind power, and essential life force. With my first book, What Are You Waiting For? I want to remind people of all ages to enjoy this life and decide to take good very care of yourself every day, each step of the way.
“It takes time, and sometimes many tiny steps, to achieve a healthier lifestyle. If you have not been taking care of yourself for years, be patient and realize that it will take some time to get into better shape. Stay motivated and think long term. Our society is too keen on the ‘magic pill’ for miracle weight loss overnight. Every day I choose to workout – for almost 30 years now. I love the idea of starting my day with a walk or jog.
“You have only one body and if you do not take care of it, where are you going to live? I want to reach my golden years with the same flexibility and movement that I have now — we all are as young as we feel. I want to encourage people to go for it. Work hard, play hard, and know that it’s not too late to focus on self–health.” Michele is now co–authoring a book on family fitness, and she writes a lifestyle column for www.ediets.com.
For more information: www.michelebatz.npauthors.com
When applicable, CCNH shares the interview subject’s designated web link for further learning and independent research. We do not officially endorse or embrace all ideas or opinions expressed therein.
This article was based on an interview with the graduate.
 |
|
 |
|
|
|