Spiritual health and physical fitness go hand-in-hand, at least that’s the philosophy of Dr. Dorris Woods, who conquered diabetes with that approach.
A registered nurse and holder of advanced degrees, Dr. Woods was diagnosed as borderline diabetic nearly five years ago. But a lifestyle change combined with unshakeable faith resulted in a new and improved body and spirit for her.
Dr. Woods describes her journey in, ‘How to Prevent Diabetes – I Beat It and You Can, Too!’ The book offers weight loss strategies, nutritional information, flexibility exercises and a 21-day ‘Don’t Call It a Diet’ diary.
Also, her church, Holman United Methodist, will host a reception and book-signing for Dr. Woods on Wednesday, March 27, at 11 a.m., in its L.L. White Hall, 3320 West Adams Boulevard in Los Angeles.
“The program is part of Holman’s Holy Week activities where we will focus on the power of the Cross and the purpose of the Resurrection. Diabetes and obesity, though preventable, is a cross we must bear as a community,” explained Pastor Kelvin Sauls.
Dr. Woods noted, “The healthier we are physically, the better we will be mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Also, if you’re physically healthy, you’ll be at peace mentally with yourself and God.”
Before the doctor’s diagnosis, Dr. Woods’ physical health was at risk. She was overweight with a thyroid problem and borderline hypertension. Still, the diabetes pronouncement totally surprised her.
Describing the news as ‘the day I got scared straight,’ Dr. Woods recalled, “My mouth fell open. I was speechless, in shock. I did not want to believe what I had heard.
“A mild depression set in, as I left her office with the firm determination that I would do something about turning around my situation.
“Dr. Davis had told me, in essence: “Lose some weight and exercise.” It was that simple,” Dr. Woods wrote in the book.
To tackle that mandate, Dr. Woods first enlisted the aid of a dietitian to help combat her overeating, lack of exercise and other food weaknesses.
“A dietitian will instruct you on what to eat, how to eat, and how much to eat if you don’t know. Nutrition is an important aspect, but changing the way we eat is hard. It’s a gradual process. You can’t just do it overnight.”
Next, she developed an exercise routine. “That’s important because it helps propel the blood to the muscles and the brain. You have to get moving to lose weight.
“You need staying power, too. The goal is to make your lifestyle change a habit.”
Now, that she’s physically and spiritually healthier, Dr. Woods aims to assists others to reach a comparable stage in life.
“I’m trying to be catalyst,” she said. “I want to make a difference in the lives and well-being of people.”
Visit Amazon.com to obtain ‘How to Prevent Diabetes – I Beat It and You Can, Too!’ or attend Holman’s reception. Call (323) 731-7285 for information.
