Fit Bits: Wellbeing words of wisdom from health coach Janine Tandy

New York-born Janine Tandy offers an all-round approach to wellbeing, blending yin yoga, mindfulness, Buddhist practices and health coaching

My fitness story

I have been offering my tapestry of practices, therapy and health coaching for nearly 19 years. My journey into teaching whole person wellbeing began in New York City, where I am from, and has continued this side of the pond, for the past 13 years in Cambridge. I am an endorsed Insight Yoga teacher, which is a lineage/method of teaching that incorporates Buddhist practices, mindfulness, self-inquiry and yin yoga. I also provide IFS (Internal Family Systems) psychotherapy and am a certified health coach from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. This background coupled with my corporate mindfulness work allows me to work in so many environments, with both group offerings, individual work and community support.

Why I love my job

I love being able to offer people valuable skills and ways of being to meet the complexities of life. Seeing how transformative mindfulness and these life-long practices are is incredibly rewarding. Being able to work in so many unique environments from studios like Camyoga, corporate settings locally and online internationally, and individualised programs make what I do each day exciting and ever-changing.

My go-to quick workout

My yin and yang (flow) yoga practices are my foundation and what I do pretty much daily. I have recently added in a weights routine now that I am over 50 and bone density and muscular support are essential!

My favourite feel-good long workout

I love going for a long paddleboard session on the river near me outside of town when the weather warms up. Also, outdoor swimming and long walks in the countryside are my fuel.

The energy-boosting snack I swear by

My favourite energy boosting snack is roasted chickpeas or a healthy portion of creamy peanut butter on sliced apples. In terms of a meal, I cannot profess my love for risotto enough! Risottos with veg like peas and courgettes, or wild mushrooms and the like.

My indulgent treat food

I have to have my 90 per cent dark chocolate every day. I don’t really think of it as an indulgence as it is all part of a happy, healthy way of eating.

How I kickback and relax

I love to read so there are always many books around me. Sitting outside with my coffee or matcha helps me relax as well as taking regular Epsom salt baths.

My top tips for anyone who needs motivating to start exercising

I have two tips – one is to begin where you are. Begin slowly if you are trying a new way of exercising or practice, listen to your body as it holds so much intelligence, and less striving more fun. My second tip is to do something with a friend. It is so good to take a walk and chat with someone you really enjoy time with; take your yoga mat into the garden, invite a friend over, things like this.

Find out more at nourishyourself.biz or email Janine at janine@spuoc.com

Follow on Instagram @janinetandy_