Squad

Hello! My name is Carla Alpert and I'm from New York. I was an Art Director for many years until I decided to change my career in 2015 to become a Functional Medicine Health Coach and Practitioner. I did this because of my personal health struggles that I eventually resolved, and a passion to help others do the same. Through my own sleuthing and the help of Functional Medicine I learned we can all be the CEO of our own health and healing!

My main focus in the work I do is to discover how gut health affects overall health because...

What happens in your gut, doesn't always stay in your gut!

I help people frustrated with unexplained digestive issues, fatigue, anxiety and brain fog take back control of their body so they can regain their freedom, energy, mental clarity and optimum health without overwhelm. I don’t diagnose disease or treat symptoms. Think of me like a health detective and wellness coach working in partnership with you to restore your health.

What’s something you’ve been pretty consistent at doing that has led to a favorable outcome for you?

I really value my health and well-being and it's my top priority. Knowing what's it's like to feel well after struggling with health issues in my past, makes it a no-brainer to live a lifestyle that supports my best health.

For me this means I eat organic whole foods, move my body daily, respect the power of a good nights rest, and work on my own personal growth.

Nature and art sooth my soul, so I get out often for walks and enjoy collage and painting as often as I can.

Which habits or goals are you currently working to make progress on daily?

I have a history of putting other peoples needs before my own, even at the expense of my well-being. I'm deeply exploring the reasons behind this and working on discovering what it is I really want.

This has helped me to pause and create boundaries around what my true needs are to make choices that align with myself, rather than trying to please others. It's a work in progress but one that has opened up a lot of freedom and time for me to feed my soul, engage in projects and with people that make my heart smile.

How do you deal with times when you struggle or get stuck?

Whenever I'm dealing with something that feels overwhelming, I find walking away is the best remedy.

I'm very in touch with my body's physical sensations and this has helped guide me to know when to take a break. When I feel a lot of constriction or pressure in my body, it's like a signal to stop and pause. For me that means, going for a walk in nature, connecting with a friend or making some art.

What I've learned from walking away is that it allows my brain more space. This space is where productivity and creativity start to flow again and I can return to what previously felt overwhelming with ease and a new perspective.

Any methods, tools or tips you recommend for your habits, goals or productivity?

Overall I have found that anything that supports regulating my nervous system, helps me to stay on track in all other aspects of my life. When you're in a state of chronic fight, flight or freeze it means you're in a constant state of stress. Your body can't heal like this. When I'm feeling calm inside, I'm able to make better decisions, accomplish my goals, support my best health and simply feel more engaged and joyful overall in life.

Along with my lifestyle habits, I'm a big fan of practicing mindfulness and self-compassion. I practice 4-7-8 breathing daily. Mostly I credit my commitment to working with professionals who are trained in "body-up" therapies like Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems and Hakomi for helping me to learn how to regulate my system for long-lasting and very healing effects.

A favorite quote?

I always get to where I’m going by walking away from where I’ve been. —Winnie The Pooh

We all know when something isn’t serving us well any longer, that change needs to happen.Each of us has the power within in us to take control of our well-being with curiosity and courage to change habits by exploring something new.

Something that made you smile recently? 😁

A Butterfly!