In 2016, Cindy Taylor weighed 178 pounds. Sparkle Wellness changed her life in 2017, and now she weighs 141 . Cindy and her husband live in Roswell and have one daughter. Let’s hear her story:
I am a professional organizer installing closet systems, improving pantries, garages, and more. I also work for Home Sweet Home, a relocation company, leading the Atlanta team for Quickstart Unpacks.
In 2012, I attended Weight Watchers, lost weight, and was at goal. Jacynta Harb left to start Sparkle Wellness. Since I had reached my goal, I thought I could succeed alone. I stopped attending since no other leaders had Jacynta’s motivation. In 2016, I saw an unflattering photo of me zip-lining. After receiving Sparkle emails, I decided to do something. I have been with Sparkle for 7 years, and my journey has evolved. I went ‘next level’ to lose my weight. I eliminated processed food, cooked my own meals so I knew exactly what I was eating, and have tracked my food on MyFitnessPal for 2600 days. All the tools Sparkle provided helped me: listening to healthy podcasts, reading books, exercising consistently, and creating a better mindset. The book FOOD, What the Heck Should I Eat? by Dr. Mark Hyman could not have come at a better time. He explains how real food is medicine and uncovers myths about the food industry. Eating real food, cooked at home, was the key to my success. I was determined to make these new habits a lifestyle and not just a diet.
As I embarked on my weight loss journey, my mom struggled with dementia. I researched dementia and realized I was genetically destined for the same path. I influence my health through diet, exercise, and stress management. I eliminated dairy, grains, sugar, seed oils, and gluten. I feel better eating real food and reading ingredient labels, instead of trusting the marketing of so-called “healthy” food. I eat more from the earth and less from a box.
I am intentional about all that goes in and on my body. I eliminated toxins from various aspects of my life including cosmetics, cleaning products, laundry soap, hand soaps, lotions, and shampoo. I transitioned to prod ucts free from endocrine disruptors, phthalates, and chlo rine. To ensure water purity, I installed a house water soft ener/purifier and a reverse osmosis filter. I am creating a healthier environment, reducing exposure to harmful substances, and promoting overall well-being.
I don’t exercise for physical appearance or the desire to eat. I use it to gain strength and build muscles, excel in my job, and ensure functionality as I age. By prioritizing strength training, I reduce the risk of falls and lead an active, independent lifestyle as I age. I use an infrared Sauna to foster healing and vitality. Recently, I cut back my workout routine to heal my adrenal and cortisol levels, reducing stress on my body.
Being part of the supportive Sparkle community has taught me it is not just about weight loss. It also has spiritual, emotional, relational, and mental aspects. As a Sparkle Ambassador, I am passionate about promot ing wellness. I take pride in teaching cooking classes, going beyond traditional recipes. I love inspiring others to embrace a wholesome lifestyle by cooking delicious, nourishing meals. I teach healthy tips and tricks aimed at making nutritious eating both enjoyable and accessible. The Marietta Square Farmer’s Market is my happy place for locally-grown produce, herbs, and spices. The con nection with local farmers is a celebration of community, sustainability, and the joy of nourishing my body with wholesome, locally-sourced goodness.
For more information, visit www.sparkleanewyou. comm or call 404-242-5062..
Written by Ginger Markert-Brusa