Shanna Nichols of Smyrna started Sparkle Wellness in May 2024. By November, she had lost 28 pounds. Let’s get personal with Shanna. My lifelong desire was to be a wife and mom. God’s timing did not align with my desires, but at age 36, He sent Jeff Nichols. Lifelong desire #2 also took longer than I wanted. Finally, at 42 years old, I became Tommy’s mom. I lived out my dreams for 13 years. In 2021, Jeff went to Heaven (from COVID). Since then, I have been relearning life as a widowed mom.
After a 29-year corporate career, I started an organizing business. It is a blessing to help clients reclaim their spaces, relieve stress, and live more orderly lifestyles. As my life and body are morphing, my business is expanding.
Before Photo
After Photo
LIFESTYLE CHANGE:
I have known Jacynta for 20+ years. When lamenting to my sister about needing accountability and motivation in my health, she mentioned Jacynta.
My turning point was realizing if another epidemic hits, I need to be in the best health for my son. My diet was mainly processed food. Now, I eat what God made. I am still learning about reading labels and buying clean food. For the first time, I learned REAL food is more satis fying and beneficial than processed food. I have begun strength training, as well as walking, and living a more active lifestyle.
EXERCISE ROUTINE:
I strength train three times a week. I love walking with friends, getting great fellowship, and a good sweat. Jacynta encourages us to “do what you can.” Even with a current muscular issue, I still work out and do what my body allows.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE:
My biggest challenge was after giving up candy for a month. I gave in to old sugar cravings. A little weight gain was NOT worth it. I am using this as a springboard into the next part of my journey. I know there is more to lose. I do not fixate on a number on the scale; I want to get down to the place where jumping jacks do not result in belly “aftershocks.”
TRIUMPHS:
I stay motivated by my son and want to be actively involved in his life for as long as possible. This includes doing things he enjoys, which is generally physical activity. He sees my efforts, the results, and has embraced the healthier way I live.
TOP 3 TIPS:
- Share your journey. We all struggle with things. Stop hiding and start being authentic. Help others and also be willing to learn from them.
- We hear “lift heavier” in our strength training classes. I can lift heavier than I ever thought possi ble (not just dumbbells but life’s struggles). I know God helps me carry whatever comes my way.
- Do not settle or accept what has been…. do push beyond yourself and fight for goodness, health, and others.
HOW HAS YOUR LIFE CHANGED?
Older Sparkle women have been motivators. I want to be in strength training classes, eating nutritiously, and enjoying all life offers at their age.
I am an optimistic realist. Life can be hard, but we are not alone. The Lord loves us and gives us others to help us. I have found myself saying recently, “Pick your hard, Shanna.” I can put in the hard work of learning, meal planning, cooking, moving my body. Or I can endure the hard likelihood of future illness, letha
rgy, missed opportunities by not taking care of my wellness.
For more information on Sparkle Wellness, contact Jacynta Harb at www.sparkleanewyou.com or call 404-242-5062.
