I woke up paralyzed 10 days before the birth of my son ...
I woke up paralyzed ten days before the birth of my first child. The left side of my face was completely frozen, and my left eye would not close. I quickly learned that I had pregnancy-related Bell’s Palsy. Little did I know that on that day, the trajectory of my life would change completely.
The first year and a half was bleak at best. Nothing had worked to turn my situation around, and if anything, my health declined further. I could barely walk due to excruciating bone pain, fatigue, insomnia, hair loss, weight loss, migraines, an autoimmune disorder, and other debilitating symptoms. Oh, and I had a newborn!
What started as a personal health journey became my life’s passion. First, I healed myself, and then I felt the overwhelming need to help others overcome their own health challenges. I felt a responsibility to research, educate, and advocate for others. I wanted to be the change maker I myself could not find.
Frustrated by the lack of clear solutions, I immersed myself in research. I tried every modality and methodology I could find: acupuncture, ayurveda, Chinese medicine, a strict anti-inflammatory diet, meditation, healers—you name it, I tried it!
As an ex-tech executive turned health and wellness journalist, I had a hangup about credibility. To deepen my knowledge and earn the trust of my readers, I became a licensed Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. I also pursued Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Cornell to expand my skills.
As a health and wellness journalist, I realized many people were eager to learn about my journey. This realization inspired me to transition from journalism to health coaching, driven by my desire to help others navigate their health challenges. My greatest passion is empowering others to overcome their wellness obstacles and believing in their healing ability.
I managed to heal myself, and I firmly believe that if I can do it, anyone can. My mission is to guide and support others on their path to vibrant health and well-being, serving as both an educator and a game changer.
My Philosophy
Nutrition
Nutrition is at the very core of creating optimal health. Bio-individuality recognizes that your dietary needs are unique and different from anyone else's. With this in mind, I specialize in creating personalized meal plans and dietary strategies tailored to your specific health goals. I aim to educate you about healthy eating habits and clarify your nutritional needs, empowering you to make informed food choices that enhance your well-being. Together, we will develop a practical and easy-to-follow plan that seamlessly fits into your lifestyle, enabling you to thrive and achieve sustainable results.
Integrative Movement
Exercise is a vital partner in achieving optimal health. Whether you aim to lose weight or build muscle, enhancing your overall agility and movement is key. Just as a well-oiled bike chain glides smoothly, regular movement lubricates the links within our bodies, fostering health and vitality.
Moreover, exercise significantly boosts your mental health, offering a comprehensive approach to well-being. Together, we will craft tailored exercise routines and physical activity plans designed to elevate your fitness, strength, and overall wellness. By integrating a variety of activities—such as cardiovascular training, strength training, yoga, and other fitness practices—I will ensure your plan aligns seamlessly with your personal wellness goals.
Let’s find the perfect balance for your body and set you on a path toward optimal health and a more vibrant and energetic version of yourself!
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness is a practice that allows you to be fully present in the moment without interruption or self-judgment. I incorporate mindfulness and meditation techniques to enhance your emotional well-being, leading to a range of other health benefits. It's a snowball effect: when you become centered, still, and present, your entire nervous system calms, resulting in improved digestion, for example. This illustrates the synergy between the mind and body.
My approach to mindfulness is tailored specifically to you. I offer guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and breathing techniques—all designed to help you stay grounded, present, and better equipped to handle daily stressors. Together, we will work towards achieving a more balanced and peaceful mindset, as peace often leads to even greater peace.
Credentials
Ali Q., founder of Ali Q Wellness, is a globally recognized authority in health and wellness. As a distinguished Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and wellness journalist, she has earned a reputation for excellence, empowering individuals worldwide to achieve optimal health. With prestigious certifications from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) and Cornell University in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Ali combines her expertise to transform lives both physically and mentally, delivering a holistic approach to well-being.
As Board President of The Sun Valley Wellness Institute, Ali spearheaded the renowned Sun Valley Wellness Festival, attracting global thought leaders and influencers. Her work has been prominently featured in top-tier publications such as Marin Magazine, Better in Chicago, and SVPN in Sun Valley, Idaho, inspiring a VIP clientele with her insightful expertise.
Ali’s influence extends internationally as an expert consultant for Space NK Apothecary in London, England. She has made numerous media appearances, including Marin TV’s Healing from the Ground Up, where she co-produced episodes and interviewed wellness icons like Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Andrew Weil, and James Nester. Her role as a nationally renowned wellness coach for WW International (formerly Weight Watchers), where she leveraged her CBT expertise, has enabled her to guide thousands toward sustainable health transformations.
As an advocate for regenerative farming, Ali serves on the Advisory Board for Kiss The Ground, promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental health. Additionally, Ali offers exclusive concierge health and wellness services to high-profile clients, providing tailored programs and personalized coaching that meet the unique needs of busy professionals and global travelers.
Ali’s commitment to holistic wellness and global reach have earned her a loyal, high-profile following. Originally from California, she now splits her time between Sun Valley, Idaho, and Marin County, CA where she continues to shape the future of health and wellness while researching, crafting new recipes, and enjoying the beauty of the mountains.