Cover Interview - Delayna Keller Watkins
DZM - Sugar seems to be the main thing most women struggle with eliminating from their diet . Why is sugar so addictive and how can we kick the sugar habit ?
DW - Sugar is public enemy number one because it tastes good and makes you feel good . I know you are thinking , but isn ’ t that what food is supposed to do ? Yes , it is , however sugar has toxic properties which wreak havoc on our entire body ! The first step to kicking the sugar habit is to recognize that sugar is everywhere , not just in the obvious foods and culprits you consume daily . You must identify the form and frequency of your consumption , then identify a healthier option of the foods you enjoy . Most people struggle with the idea of eating less sugar or giving up their treats but there is a healthier option for every food you enjoy . My signature program , The Sugarless Living Program provides support , strategies , and personalized solutions to kick the sugar habit .
DZM - I once heard you say that women of color seem to experience health risks at a greater level than other peer groups . Why is that ?
DW - Women of color experience health disparities at a greater rate due to lack of knowledge , cultural beliefs , and decreased access to specialized healthcare . We need to increase education and awareness that preventive services are the key to better health experiences and outcomes . Women of color under-utilize primary healthcare services and view them as sick care services . This behavior contributes to the alarming rate of chronic disease and death among our population . I am committed to changing this scenario with the latest addition to my wellness platform , the She Is Well Tribe . It is a supportive community of information sharing and real-time support for women to receive relevant health information and ask health and wellness related questions .
DZM - What are some of the psychological benefits of developing a healthier diet / lifestyle ?
DW - When you develop a routine , sort of a rhythm in your life it lowers your stress level and allows you to focus on relationships , creativity and being present . Our mental state is more relaxed when we are leading a healthier lifestyle because on the flipside , your brain becomes anxious when it does not have order or you just ‘ wing it ’ every day .
DZM - How long have you been a leader in the field of wellness ? Tell us about your journey .
DW- My journey began as a leader in the healthcare field over 30 years ago as an awardwinning registered nurse . The various areas of clinical leadership and professional experience during my nursing career created a blueprint for the shift to entrepreneurship in the wellness industry . In the past 12 years I have become a nationally recognized expert in the health and wellness industry and developed a unique platform with several products and programs . My journey continues and God is blessing me with opportunities I never could have imagined .
DZM - What are the challenges of being an entrepreneur while being a Wife and a Mom ?
DW - The greatest challenge is trying to stay in the “ sweet spot ” and not become overwhelmed with balancing business and quality family time . I share my goals , tasks and make my calendar visible which helps to include my family in my business activities . This creates harmony in our household because I do not have to explain that I am busy , they see it for themselves and we plan accordingly .