Health coaching is on the rise worldwide, but is still not a popular concept in nations like South Africa. But if anything, it is the COVID pandemic that has been a blessing in disguise to health coaches who got a chance to move their services online. Esté Bell is one such health coach who was actively involved in the CrossFit arena. Today, she does coaching in person as well as online. Due to people spending more time on social media, she was able to broaden her reach across borders and become visible to international clients.
Born and raised in the Gauteng province of South Africa, Esté developed a passion for sports and excelled in athletics from a young age. Following her high school education, she enlisted in the South African Army, completing a year of voluntary military service at the South African Army Women’s College (SAAWCOL). She then pursued further education at Tshwane University of Technology, specializing in veterinary technology.
Esté’s Path to Personal and Professional Fulfillment
For the next decade, Esté dedicated herself to working as a Veterinary Technologist at the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory in Onderstepoort. During this time, she also embarked on personal milestones, marrying her long-time boyfriend and welcoming twin daughters through fertility treatment.
Later, seeking a balance between her professional and personal life, Esté made the decision to resign from the laboratory and, alongside her husband, ventured into entrepreneurship. She took on the role of managing the administrative aspects of their business while maintaining her commitment to physical fitness through activities like aerobics and spinning.
Driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Esté pursued various certifications in nutrition, gradually shifting her focus towards holistic health. Concurrently, she discovered the benefits of CrossFit and its impact on muscle gain, particularly for women approaching middle age.
Despite facing personal challenges, including a perimenopausal phase and navigating a deteriorating marriage to an alcoholic, Esté remained resilient and committed to her well-being. These experiences underscored the importance of prioritizing factors like sleep, stress management, and recovery, shaping her current approach to life and career.
Today, Esté’s journey stands as a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and dedication to personal growth. She continues to inspire others through her holistic approach to health and fitness, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
A Journey to Sustainable Wellness
Esté grappled with disordered eating patterns from her late teens well into her thirties, a struggle compounded by a diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in her early twenties. Despite her commitment to physical activity, maintaining her body weight has become increasingly challenging over the years, exacerbating her already strained relationship with food and leading to a decline in her overall health.
Seeking solutions, Esté immersed herself in research, devouring countless articles, magazines, and books on weight loss. However, she soon realized that much of the information she encountered offered similar advice and recommendations regarding dietary choices. Intrigued by this realization, she delved into the realm of nutrition certifications, embarking on a journey of self-coaching that would ultimately lead to a remarkable transformation in her health and physique.
Through her arduous journey, Esté gleaned a profound insight: that success in achieving health and fitness goals is fundamentally rooted in habit formation. Armed with this understanding, she diligently cultivated and reinforced positive habits, gradually steering herself towards a complete transformation of her health and body.
For Esté, this transformative experience underscored the pivotal role of habit formation in achieving sustainable results. Recognizing the overwhelming abundance of information available online, she endeavors to empower her clients with knowledge, motivation, and inspiration to cultivate healthier habits for long-term success.
Her approach is grounded in the principles of holistic health, recognizing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul. By advocating for a comprehensive approach to wellness, Esté aims to guide her clients towards lasting transformation, helping them navigate the complexities of health and nutrition with clarity and confidence.
Harmonizing Professional Excellence and Personal Fulfillment
In navigating the demands of her profession alongside her personal life, Esté adopts an approach that closely aligns with the principles she imparts to her clients. Drawing from her own experiences, she shares several strategies that have proven instrumental in maintaining a harmonious balance:
- Establishing Clear Boundaries: Esté emphasizes the importance of delineating boundaries between her professional commitments and personal time, ensuring that each receives the attention it deserves.
- Prioritizing Self-Care: Recognizing the significance of self-care, she prioritizes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices, understanding that nurturing her well-being is essential for both personal fulfillment and professional success.
- Embracing Flexibility: Leveraging the inherent flexibility of her profession, Esté organizes her schedule in a manner that accommodates the ebb and flow of her personal life, allowing for adjustments as circumstances dictate.
- Nurturing Relationships: Having learned valuable lessons from past experiences, particularly her previous marriage, Esté emphasizes the importance of investing time and effort into fostering meaningful connections with loved ones. She and her partner prioritize mutual support, respect, and understanding, recognizing the profound impact of maintaining healthy relationships on overall well-being.
- Commitment to Continuous Learning: Ever the advocate for personal and professional growth, Esté remains actively engaged in staying abreast of advancements in her field. By embracing a mindset of lifelong learning, she ensures that her practice remains dynamic and relevant, thus enriching her ability to serve her clients effectively.
- Reflection and Adaptation: Regularly engaging in introspection, Esté reflects on her work-life balance and proactively adjusts her approach as needed. She acknowledges that evolving needs and priorities necessitate a flexible and responsive balance strategy.
- Seeking Support: Understanding the value of external guidance, Esté underscores the importance of seeking support from a coach or mentor. Whether within her professional domain or from a different vantage point, having a supportive network offers invaluable insights and perspectives for navigating life’s challenges.
Above all, Esté emphasizes that achieving balance between professional endeavors and personal fulfillment is not about attaining perfection, but rather about cultivating a sense of harmony that allows for growth and fulfillment in both spheres of life.
Empowering Holistic Health
Driven by an unwavering passion for promoting holistic well-being, Esté’s business transcends the realm of mere service provision, advocating instead for a lifestyle that integrates physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are the key pillars that underscore her approach to business:
- Passion for Well-being: At the heart of Esté’s business is a genuine passion for comprehensive well-being. Rather than simply offering services, she champions a holistic lifestyle that encompasses all facets of health.
- Client-Centered Approach: Esté prioritizes a personalized approach to each client, recognizing that the journey to optimal health is unique for every individual. By tailoring her services to meet the specific needs and preferences of each client, she sets herself apart in the industry.
- Educational Empowerment: Central to Esté’s business philosophy is the belief in empowering clients through education. By providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their health, she cultivates loyalty and generates word-of-mouth referrals.
- Innovative Services: Committed to staying at the forefront of her field, Esté continuously evolves her services to incorporate the latest holistic practices and tools. This dedication to innovation ensures that her offerings remain relevant and effective for her clients.
- Sustainable Growth: Esté’s business model is built on sustainable growth, emphasizing the importance of nurturing long-term client relationships and fostering a sense of community around her brand.
- Diverse Revenue Streams: Esté diversifies her income by offering a range of services, including one-on-one coaching, both in-person and online, as well as creating blogs, articles, and digital content. This multifaceted approach not only provides a variety of services but also expands her reach and impact.
- Strategic Networking: Recognizing the power of collaboration, Esté actively cultivates a network of professionals and clients who share her values. This supportive community not only bolsters her business but also contributes to a collective mission of promoting holistic health.
- Marketing with Integrity: Esté’s marketing strategies are rooted in authenticity and integrity. Rather than resorting to deceptive tactics, she shares genuine stories and facts that resonate with her audience and align with the ethical standards of her profession. Honesty and transparency are the cornerstones of her marketing approach.
The Journey of a Middle-Aged Holistic Health Coach
As a female middle-aged holistic health and nutrition coach, Esté’s passion is a fusion of personal triumphs, professional dedication, and a commitment to empowering others. Her journey is marked by a series of challenges she has confronted and conquered, including disordered eating, PCOS, fertility treatments, a partial hysterectomy, chronic back spasms leading to functional scoliosis, and the emotional turmoil of divorce from an alcoholic spouse. Yet, amidst these trials, Esté emerged victorious, undergoing a remarkable transformation that culminated in her earning the overall Ms. Bikini Fitness title at her first competition at the age of 50. These experiences serve as the bedrock of her fervent desire to guide others on their wellness journeys.
Central to Esté’s coaching philosophy is the belief in addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This holistic approach forms the cornerstone of her coaching practice, ensuring that her clients receive comprehensive support tailored to their individual needs and circumstances. Her passion for education drives her to equip her clients with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about their nutrition and lifestyle. Witnessing the positive impact of her coaching on her clients’ lives fuels her determination to continue her mission.
Driven by a deep-seated desire to foster a sense of community and support, Esté endeavors to create a nurturing environment where healthy living is not just encouraged but celebrated. As a coach in her middle age, she is particularly attuned to the unique health concerns and challenges faced by clients in a similar stage of life. Her ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of life for her clients, empowering them to lead vibrant, fulfilling lives fueled by holistic wellness principles. Through her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment, Esté embodies the transformative power of holistic health coaching, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys toward well-being and vitality.
The Evolution of Health Coaching in the Digital Age
While health coaching is gradually gaining traction in South Africa, it remains a relatively unfamiliar concept to many. The term “Health Coach” is often associated with weight loss and fitness training, and there is limited recognition of holistic health within the broader population.
When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it brought about unprecedented changes and challenges, including a heightened awareness of health and well-being. As a health coach actively engaged in the CrossFit community, Esté experienced a surge in inquiries regarding weight management and nutrition as lockdown measures were extended. This shift in focus prompted her to adapt her coaching approach, transitioning from in-person sessions to online platforms seamlessly.
In hindsight, the pandemic presented an unexpected opportunity for health coaches who were able to pivot their services online. With individuals spending more time on social media platforms and seeking virtual solutions to their health concerns, coaches like Esté were able to expand their reach beyond geographical boundaries. This increased visibility not only allowed for greater access to local clients but also opened doors to potential international clientele.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, it served as a catalyst for innovation and growth within the health coaching industry. By leveraging digital platforms and embracing new opportunities for outreach, health coaches have been able to connect with individuals seeking support for their holistic health journey, transcending the limitations of traditional borders and barriers.
Esté’s Journey of Growth and Transformation
Esté’s journey is marked by a unique fusion of strengths and qualities cultivated through continuous growth and self-improvement:
Her fervent passion for well-being and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on others’ lives serve as the driving force behind her endeavors. This enthusiasm imbues her interactions with clients, motivating and inspiring them to pursue their health goals.
Central to Esté’s approach is her exceptional ability to communicate with clarity and empathy. Whether imparting knowledge or offering encouragement, she endeavors to ensure that her words resonate deeply, igniting transformative action.
With a profound understanding of clients’ emotions, challenges, and aspirations, Esté adeptly tailors her guidance to meet their individual needs. Her empathetic nature fosters a supportive environment conducive to holistic growth.
Embracing a holistic perspective, Esté recognizes that health encompasses not only physical well-being but also mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. This comprehensive approach facilitates profound transformations in her clients’ lives.
Continual support is a cornerstone of Esté’s coaching philosophy. Through regular check-ins, progress assessments, and unwavering encouragement, she empowers her clients to maintain their commitment to positive change.
Yet, amidst her strengths lies a vulnerability: perfectionism. Though only recently acknowledged as a weakness, Esté’s pursuit of perfection stems from a deep-seated lack of confidence. While striving for excellence may bring validation, it also precipitates chronic stress, strain on relationships, and eventual burnout.
Averse to conflict, Esté’s inclination toward people-pleasing exacerbates the challenges posed by perfectionism. This dynamic, when coupled with her personal and professional pursuits, has at times strained her relationships and well-being.
Nevertheless, Esté underscores the paramount importance of cultivating self-acceptance and self-worth. By embracing her vulnerabilities as opportunities for growth and learning, she transforms her experiences into invaluable lessons that inform her journey of guiding and serving others.
Esté’s Journey to Wellness and Victory
In 2021, Esté had the privilege of serving as an official sponsor of the prestigious Mrs. South Africa Beauty Pageant, where she had the honor of coaching the reigning queen, the esteemed Thenjiwe Mdluli. Despite being initially unfamiliar with the pageant and fashion industry, Esté observed with admiration how the contestants skillfully balanced their businesses, family responsibilities, and the demands of the pageant within their limited time. This experience underscored the significance of holistic health—mind, body, and spirit—as she recognized that true well-being cannot be achieved if any aspect is neglected.
In addition to her involvement with the Mrs. South Africa Beauty Pageant, Esté was appointed as an Executive Contributor for Brainz Magazine, a leading global digital publication specializing in articles and exclusive interviews on personal development, leadership, lifestyle, and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, she currently serves as a columnist for Expert Profile magazine, an esteemed international publication where industry experts share their expertise on various topics ranging from well-being and business to health, fitness, and lifestyle.
On a personal note, Esté has achieved remarkable milestones in her fitness journey over the past five years. Despite initial hesitation, she surprised herself by ranking thirteenth on the South African CrossFit rankings after participating in her first CrossFit Open at the age of 45. This achievement served as a testament to her dedication and determination in pursuing her fitness goals.
More recently, Esté ventured into the realm of bodybuilding by competing in her first bikini competition to commemorate her fiftieth birthday. To her astonishment, she emerged victorious as the overall Ms. Bikini winner. This milestone was not merely about winning a competition; it symbolized a personal triumph over the misconceptions surrounding menopause. By showcasing that women can build muscle mass and achieve their best physique even during this transitional phase of life, Esté’s journey to the stage exemplified the potential for transformation and empowerment during menopause. Driven by her unwavering commitment to health and well-being, Esté’s journey serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that with the right mindset and approach, menopause can be embraced as a period of growth and vitality.
The Journey of a Middle-Aged Holistic Coach
As Esté reflects on her journey, she recognizes the attributes that have propelled her success and made a significant impact as a coach. With age and experience, she has cultivated a unique set of qualities that position her as an inspirational figure in 2024:
- Experience and Wisdom: Esté’s extensive years of experience have endowed her with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom, making her a trusted guide in navigating the path to healthier lifestyles.
- Holistic Approach: In an era where individuals seek comprehensive solutions to their well-being, Esté’s holistic approach to health and nutrition has never been more relevant. By addressing the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health, she provides a holistic framework for sustainable wellness.
- Adaptability: As a seasoned coach, Esté understands the importance of adaptability in leadership. She demonstrates the ability to pivot and evolve her coaching strategies to meet the evolving needs and circumstances of her clients.
- Empathy and Connection: Esté’s strong empathetic skills enable her to forge deep connections with her clients on a personal level. This capacity to understand and relate to others fosters meaningful relationships and impactful coaching experiences.
- Commitment to Service: Esté’s unwavering dedication to helping others achieve their health goals reflects her profound commitment to service. Her altruistic endeavors positively impact not only her clients but also the broader community she serves.
- Influence and Inspiration: Through her work and personal example, Esté serves as a beacon of inspiration, motivating others to embark on their journey toward positive change. Her influence extends beyond her immediate clients, as she advocates for holistic health practices within the community.
- Lifelong Learning: Embodying the principle of lifelong learning, Esté continually seeks opportunities for self-improvement and growth. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge equips her with the tools and insights needed to better serve her community and foster continuous personal development.
In summary, Esté’s attributes as a middle-aged holistic coach exemplify her commitment to empowering others and promoting holistic well-being in 2024 and beyond. Through her experience, empathy, and dedication to service, she continues to inspire positive change and make a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches.
Este’s Journey to Nourish, Nurture, and Flourish
For Esté, the mantra “Nourish the body, nurture the mind, and flourish in spirit” embodies the fundamental principles of holistic health, representing a holistic approach to both personal and professional growth. This mantra serves as a guiding philosophy in her coaching practice, emphasizing the importance of complete well-being.
- Nourishing the Body: Esté is dedicated to promoting optimal health by emphasizing the significance of proper nutrition, physical activity, and restorative sleep practices. She empowers her clients to make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle, fostering vitality and wellness from within.
- Nurturing the Mind: Recognizing the pivotal role of mindset in achieving lasting transformation, Esté incorporates mindfulness techniques, stress management strategies, and positive affirmations into her coaching methodology. By cultivating a resilient and positive mindset, she helps her clients overcome obstacles and embrace personal growth.
- Flourishing in Spirit: Esté encourages her clients to explore spiritual practices that resonate with their beliefs and values, whether through meditation, connecting with nature, or engaging in reflective exercises. By nurturing the spiritual dimension of well-being, she facilitates deeper connections and a sense of purpose in her clients’ lives.
This mantra reflects Esté’s holistic approach to health and wellness, addressing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. It underscores her commitment to guiding her clients on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being, fostering growth, and fulfillment at every level.
