The Journey of Connie Pshigoda

My life's journey began in Perryton, Texas on a cold, snowy November night in 1953. Little did I know just how valuable my early years on a farm, born of German heritage would be fifty+ years later. All my German grandmothers and aunts were passionate gardeners! No wonder my favorite times are spent in my garden.

As a young girl growing up in the wide open spaces of our farm, I didn't realize the strong influence the changing seasons would have on my adult life. I just took for granted planting time, harvest season, summer fallow and even tornado season!

Those were just the normal times of my life. Now that I am grown, and have weathered several seasons (and a few storms), I value the lessons each season offered.

Looking back on my educational decisions and career choices, I can see a distinct path on my life's journey. I entered Texas Tech University in the early 70's, specifically the College of Home Economics, with a strong interest in Food and Nutrition and Human Relations and Development.

During those early years, for part-time income, I worked at the YMCA, teaching aerobic classes and swimming classes. As my life moved on (now married with a child), my young family moved to southern New Mexico, where eventually I became the fitness director of a health club, then later opened my own dance studio, teaching all ages in ballet, tap and jazz dancing. When that 15 year season ended, my two daughters and I moved to Phoenix, Arizona, for a fresh, new beginning.

I completed massage therapy courses at The Institute for Natural Therapeutics and began a new career. My love for foods and the knowledge of how they nurture and nourish the body continued to grow and I enrolled in Central Arizona College's Dietitian program. During this time, I published Health Beat, a Newsletter for Healthy Living, to share and encourage healthy choices for my clients.

My next move in 1996 brought me to Colorado and on to the next season of my life. Newly married to a native Coloradan, I developed a new massage clientele, continued nutritional studies, developed a detox-cleansing program using Oxygen Steam Therapy, and completed certification as a Natural Health Consultant.

My daughters are grown and on their own now and my life is like a cleared garden, just waiting for fresh seeds! Many of my clients encouraged me to teach and write so I could share my passion for wellness and the seasonal influences upon our lives. My newest project is the completion and publication of my Wellness Workbook and Journal.

I hope you'll accept my invitation to journey through life's cycles and transitions toward fullness and optimal wellness.