This interview is part of the Real Talk Real Women interview series, where we bring you the life-changing, heart-warming and inspirational stories behind the most successful women in health and fitness. Make sure to follow us on Instagram for the latest interviews! For this installment, we are joined by Jennifer Ettinger.
Let’s start off with a general introduction. How would you describe yourself, what are you all about and how did you get involved in health and fitness?
Thank you, Miriam. I am a mother, wife and a woman who believes in reaching for your dreams #pinkdreams are even better. I fell into fitness due to a health scare that left me bedridden for a year.
Jennifer you are a bestselling author, tv host, producer, fitness, style expert and keynote speaker. But there was a time in your life where you were bedridden and could literally not exercise longer than 2 minutes a day, how did you break free from that time in your life?
It all begins with the mindset. I finally broke free from the limitations I was setting for myself. “Change the mind and the body will follow.”
Were you ever afraid that you would have to live the rest of your life like that? and how did you deal with that?
I was terrified that I lost the “zest for life.” One day, I simply woke up and said enough. Life is too short for these physical and mental limitations.
Education and feeding your mind has played a large part in your recovery, can you share your ideas on mindset and mental traps?
I have been a student of meditation and mantras for over 20 years now. The glass is always abundant in my eyes. We all have heartbreak and loss, it is how we handle these situations that can offer a different outcome.
Many women are unhappy with the way they look, they look at the magazine covers and say I wish and if only, but very often that's where it ends. Why are we so good at coming up with excuses and avoiding to take the action required to change?
We come up with excuses, for we have built so much “fear” over the “perfect” in our lives. The change/shift is frightening, so we stick to what we know- the boundaries we have created. It is easier to complain, than to take the first step towards change.
PS Perfect doesn’t exist :) “But darling, what if you fly.”
You talk about shifting the focus from what you don’t like or don’t have, to becoming aware of what you do have. How does that work?
I’ve seen my loved one become “broken” from the tragedies of their lives. It has destroyed them. I am a survivor and won’t be broken. I’ve only learned that through the difficulties life has offered. When you hit your way “down,” you have a choice to pull yourself up, or to give up. “What you think about you bring about.”
Are there any techniques you can recommend for when we catch ourselves in a moment of negative self talk?
Yes, to stop and take a breath. Ask yourself, is this talk “helping” me in any way shape or form. Are the words factual or “false truths” about myself? Place a rubber band on your wrist and “snap it” when being critical. It really helps “jolt” the mindset!
You’re the bestselling author of the book “Find Your Inner Goddess” do we all have an inner goddess and how can we connect with her?
We have all a goddess within. History has taught us to embrace our unique beauty and self care. Each one of has something so special to share with the world; allow your unique self to shine!
I know you have a history in art education is that where you were inspired by the goddesses?
I had the privilege of studying behind the scenes in the world’s top museums and auction houses. I was fascinated the beautiful paintings and sculptures; honoring the beautiful, curvaceous goddesses of our past.
You’ve been married for over 20 years now, in today's day and age that is quite rare, how do you support each other in times of need and what advice could you give other women on lasting relationships?
Yes, we have been married for 21 years! We are very different: He grounds me and I open him to adventure. I keep my private life, private, which I have learned over the years. My advice? Your “self worth” and family come first. The rest is bonus.
What is your biggest pride and joy in life?
My faith and family. They are my foundation. As the saying goes, keep your feet on the ground while reaching for the stars.
Where can people go to learn more about you online?