The golden rule has always been, “Treat others as you would want to be treated.” But what about applying that logic to yourself? Not enough people – women, especially – treat their bodies with the love and respect they deserve. This Vitacost Health Raiser of the Week has something to say about that! Read on for more insight from Dallas, the petite, self-motivated, NASM-certified personal trainer with a lot of spunk.

What does health mean to you?
Health means being mentally and physically well. But most importantly, healthy is about being happy and making decisions that complement that.
What inspired you to start living a healthy life?
When I got out of an unhealthy relationship, I realized I wasn’t treating my body right and needed to turn things around. I started to love myself and treat my body the way it deserved. My body thanked me in return.
What are three things you do to stay healthy?
Exercise, exercise, exercise! I do everything from light walking to weightlifting. Any form of activity makes me feel so much better!
What is one motivational quote that you live by?
The tattoo on my ribs is actually one of my favorites. “Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved.” This encourages me to be very self-motivated and reminds me that you only get out of life what you put into it.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what Vitacost product could you not live without?
Ahhh! I have to pick one? That’s not fair. From the site as a whole, I’d choose Nuts ‘n More Peanut Butter. But among Vitacost brands specifically, I have to take the Vitacost Gluten-Free Mouth-Watering Brownie Mix! I mean if I’m stranded on an island, at least I’m going to have treats!
What advice do you have for someone who is trying to live healthier?
Learn how to be self-motivated. It is the most valuable thing you can learn when making a lifestyle change. You are the only one who can control your actions, so take control!
Is there a role model you look up to?
As cliché as it sounds, I look up to my clients a lot! They reach out to me, because they’re motivated for change. I get to learn about their struggles and strengths and watch them progress and better their lives. This makes me so happy and motivated to keep doing what I’m doing.