HPN graduate profile: Michelle Yandle

Why did you choose to study nutrition with HPN?
Last year around this time, I received the book 99 Things You Need To Know to Lose Fat by Cliff Harvey. Within the book there was a reference to seeking advice from a certified Holistic Performance Coach.  This was the first I had heard of the term and so I went straight to the computer and did some investigating. Having a huge amount of respect for Cliff and wanting to have a New Zealand based certification I signed up within the hour!  Previously I had studied with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition which prepared me with the skills I needed to be a good coach but felt like it was missing some of the science that HPN could provide. 

What did you get out of the HPN course/ why would you recommend it others?
First and foremost, HPN taught me some serious critical thinking skills.  It woke me up to the fact that all the "evidence" out there in the world wide web isn't necessarily properly reviewed and proven.  It gave me the skills I needed to research different ideas thoroughly so I could have an unbiased evidence based approach to my learning.  HPN breaks through the hype and fear mongering that is more often than not today's health and weight loss industry and is so important for anyone who wants to be seen as a credible resource for health and wellbeing. I also learned the science behind the nutritional theories I practice which provided me with more confidence in my practice. 

What was your background experience in nutrition?
Un-officially I've been involved with nutrition all my life. Beginning from my battles with weight as a young child and teen.  I wanted to know what makes us well and continue to have that drive today.  I started with a couple courses online - through IIN and other sources but again, wanted something more. 

What are you up to now as a graduate of HPN?
I have a successful health and nutrition coaching business based here in Taranaki however I provide workshops and seminars New Zealand wide.  I have a strong following in various social media outlets and use those to help continue to inspire and educated. I have also recently published  a book "A Diet for 7 Generations" which provides simple nutrition and lifestyle advice amongst all the chaos out there today.    I have also recently been hired as the "Healthy Inspirations" brand ambassador for Bin Inn Retail Group so you should see me a lot more around NZ! 

What's does your ideal day off entail?
What's a day off? haha. Honestly, a day off would involve getting away from home. I love travelling around NZ but mostly love spending time away with my husband.  We love to go for rides in our Canadian canoe and go for walks up the mountain.  Sitting in the sun with a great book is also amazing. 


What is your favourite way to nourish your body and what is your biggest food weakness?
My favourite way to nourish my body is indulging in the freshest of produce either from our own garden or the local farmers market.  There is nothing quite like fresh strawberries this time of year or sautéed silver beet straight out of the garden.  I don't really have a lot of weaknesses as I know I can have these things if I truly want them, but my favourite "treats" are definitely chocolate and fresh bread. 


What does your weekly fitness routine consist of?
I keep things pretty simple most weeks.  We do a short "tabata" type workout once or twice a day, potentially some yoga and then some walks in between.  


Favourite piece of nutritional advice? 
Just eat real food, practice self care, and listen to your body. 

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