“From the depths of despair, I discovered something beautiful: a deep understanding of the challenges that so many, especially women battling chronic illnesses, face every day.”

– Nadya Hard

In this exclusive interview, we explore the pivotal moments that shaped Nadya Hard’s path and how she uses her experiences to inspire and support others in their quest for holistic well-being.

SM: Nadya, your personal journey through illness to becoming a Wellness Lifestyle Strategist is inspiring. Can you walk us through the pivotal moments that shaped your path?

NH: Thank you for your kind words. In a world where passion meets purpose, my journey to becoming a Wellness Lifestyle Strategist has been all about bouncing back and reinventing myself. Imagine this: I had a thriving dance business that lit up my life, but then everything changed in an instant when I faced a serious health crisis. The news hit me hard—not just for me, but for my kids and the amazing community of students who felt like family. That stage, which was once my happy place, now seemed so far away, and I struggled with losing the person I used to be.

But here’s where the magic begins! From the depths of despair, I discovered something beautiful: a deep understanding of the challenges that so many, especially women battling chronic illnesses, face every day. Those tough moments ignited a spark in me, pushing me toward my real calling—embracing wellness management to truly make a difference!

As I explored my healing journey, I turned my pain into power. I dove headfirst into my studies and became a Master Health and Wellness Expert. Not only did this new knowledge breathe life back into my world, but it also reshaped how I connected with others. I realized that I could inspire and support those who were dealing with struggles similar to mine.

Fueled by this fresh purpose, I launched The Shed Away Plan, an exciting initiative focused on helping others tackle gut health issues caused by toxic build-up. As the CEO and founder, I’ve created a space filled with hope, healing, and transformation. It’s not just about feeling good; it’s about taking charge of your life! Through engaging workshops, personalized coaching, and heartfelt community connections, I’m here to help others reclaim their health and vibrancy.

Even during my toughest times—when I couldn’t dance like I once did—I found ways to keep the beat alive in my heart. I shared my journey and insights to encourage others to rise above their own challenges. Today, I stand strong as a symbol of resilience, proving that even through life’s hurdles, we can uncover our truest selves. Let’s dance through adversity and shine together!

SM: Tell us about the award you recently received. How does the accolade impact your work, and what do they mean to you personally?

NH: Being honored with the 2024 Global Recognition Award is not just a personal triumph—it’s a profound moment that reaffirms the meaningful journey I’ve undertaken in the realm of wellness and mental health advocacy. This prestigious accolade is both humbling and exhilarating, serving as a touching reminder of the significance of my work and the lives it touches.

These awards are more than just shiny trophies; they validate the passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment I pour into fostering a healthier, more empowered community. Each recognition fuels my drive to push boundaries, inspire others, and catalyze change in the health and wellness landscape. They remind me that every effort, no matter how small, can spark a movement.

But the impact of such accolades extends beyond mere recognition; I’ve dedicated myself to numerous community initiatives that embody the spirit of service. From assisting living programs that empower individuals to reclaim their independence, to women’s shelters that provide essential support for those on their journey to self-sufficiency, I’ve forged strong ties that resonate deeply with my mission. Additionally, my involvement with community outreach centers allows me to connect with diverse individuals, amplifying the importance of accessible wellness resources for all.

As I continue on this path, I am even more energized to expand my reach, sharing my knowledge and experiences to inspire others. This recognition isn’t just a badge of honor; it’s a call to action—a clarion call that reinforces my belief that together, we can create positive change and cultivate a more compassionate society. 

SM: You mentioned starting your career with a confidence-focused dance company for women dealing with chronic illness, domestic violence, and postpartum challenges. How did that work influence your current approach to holistic wellness?

NH: Reflecting on my journey, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement when I think about where it all began—with Naughty Hawty Treats, a vibrant dance company focused on empowering women facing chronic illness, domestic violence, and postpartum challenges. As the Director and Founder, I discovered early on that wellness transcends the confines of physical health. It’s a beautiful tapestry woven from emotional resilience, self-empowerment, and the invaluable threads of community support.

At Naughty Hawty Treats, women didn’t just come to dance; they gathered to uplift and inspire each other in an environment that celebrated joy and connection. We turned the dance floor into a sanctuary—a fun-filled space where laughter replaced stress and movement became a powerful release. Each dance session fostered a sense of sanctuary, allowing women to shed their burdens while cultivating strength and confidence. 

This foundation deeply influenced my current approach to holistic wellness. I learned that true empowerment lies in acknowledging the diverse paths we each traverse in our wellness journeys. Every twist, turn, and leap adds richness to our shared experience, highlighting the importance of integrating varied wellness strategies that resonate with individuals’ unique needs.

As I continue to advocate for holistic health, I carry the lessons from Naughty Hawty Treats within me. I strive to create safe spaces where everyone can explore their path toward healing—proving that when we come together, we can evoke profound transformations. My mission is to ensure every woman recognizes her strength and embraces the holistic journey toward wellness with enthusiasm and community spirit.

SM: How do you balance your various roles while maintaining your own wellness?

NH: Oh, what a thrilling ride it has been! My journey spans an incredible array of platforms—from wellness coaching and mental health advocacy to collaborating with schools and organizations. While my passion for these roles fuels me, achieving balance is essential to my well-being and effectiveness. And let me tell you, it all comes down to intentionality and a fierce commitment to self-care!

I prioritize my wellness through regular exercise, energizing meditation, and setting firm boundaries around my work. These practices help me recharge and remain fully present for my clients and the initiatives I lead. I’ve also honed my time management techniques to ensure that I can dive into my work while carving out precious moments for my personal interests and joys. 

But here’s the magic: when you genuinely love what you do, sacrifices become a part of the journey! I know that my ideal tribe counts on me to show up as my best self, which inspires me to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. In fact, during my darkest times of illness, it was that very passion that propelled me to do even more! Every challenge I faced only deepened my understanding of wellness and the importance of resilience.

Being authentic in the guidance I provide creates a powerful connection with those I serve, keeping me aligned with my mission to promote holistic wellness. I’ve come to understand that my struggles have uniquely equipped me to advocate for others, allowing me to share insights and strategies born from lived experience.

SM: Can you explain why addressing both physical and mental health is crucial for long-term well-being?

NH: Holistic wellness is at the very heart of my strategy, and I can’t emphasize enough how crucial it is to address both physical and mental health for long-term well-being! These two aspects are intricately entwined—each one profoundly influences the other. Neglecting mental health not only hampers emotional resilience but can also lead to a myriad of physical issues, and vice versa. 

But here’s where the excitement lies: my holistic approach starts by delving into our emotions! True wellness begins on an emotional level, where understanding and nurturing our feelings lay the foundation for overall health. Yes, there are steps along the way that may challenge us, but navigating these challenges is essential for growth. We simply can’t do one without the other! 

By embracing both physical and mental health simultaneously, we empower our clients with a comprehensive toolkit for sustainable health habits. This dual approach not only enhances their day-to-day lives but also paves the way for a truly fulfilling existence. Imagine cultivating resilience, strength, and joy while honoring both mind and body—this is the essence of holistic wellness! 

SM: What unique challenges do women, children, and entrepreneurs face, and how do your strategies cater to their specific needs?

NH: Each group I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work with brings their own unique challenges to the table, and navigating these needs takes creativity and heart!

For women, the societal pressures are like a tidal wave, crashing down with expectations around work, family, and self-care. This can create an overwhelming whirlwind of stress and health issues. Many women struggle with the feeling that they must juggle it all—career, family, personal dreams—often leading to feelings of inadequacy. That’s where my programs come in! I’m dedicated to offering powerful tools for stress management, self-empowerment, and building a tight-knit, supportive community. By sharing real experiences and practical strategies, I help women recognize their incredible worth and craft balanced lives that truly honor their needs and aspirations!

When we turn our focus to children, we discover a whole new world of challenges, especially when it comes to their emotional and social growth. The pressures of school, friendships, and handling their emotions can feel overwhelming! That’s why I create dynamic programs that equip kids with essential life skills, boost their emotional intelligence, and build resilience. With a deep understanding of the emotional rollercoaster kids ride, I aim to create safe, inviting spaces where they can express their feelings and develop healthy coping strategies. Together, we empower them to face their world with confidence!

And let’s not forget about entrepreneurs! Their journey can often feel like an exhilarating yet exhausting roller coaster, filled with stress, burnout, and the tricky dance of balancing work with personal life. The relentless drive for success can lead to an avalanche of work and feelings of isolation. That’s why my strategies for this group are packed with practical tools for stress management, time mastery, and self-care practices that prioritize their mental wellness. Drawing from both my personal journey and professional insights, I relate to their struggles and provide guidance that feels personal and impactful.

Through each of these specially crafted programs, I tap into my own experiences, allowing me to connect authentically with the unique challenges faced by women, children, and entrepreneurs. My mission? To cultivate an environment where individuals feel both understood and supported, equipping them with the resources they need to soar high on their journeys.

SM: What do you see as the most pressing health concerns in marginalized communities today?

NH: As a National Mental Wellness Responder Trainer and Chairperson for the NAACP Health Committee, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to dive deep into the vibrant yet challenging realities faced by marginalized communities. The health concerns here are like a tangled web, with roots that run deep and affect overall well-being in powerful ways!

One of the biggest hurdles we face is the lack of access to mental health resources. Many individuals in these communities find it tough to locate affordable and culturally relevant mental health services. Economic struggles, geographical barriers, and a shortage of providers who truly understand the rich cultural backgrounds of these communities make this even more complicated. As a result, countless people are toughing it out in silence, missing out on the support they urgently need.

But that’s not all! There’s a concerning trend of chronic illnesses—things like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease—that hit marginalized populations the hardest. Factors like food deserts, socioeconomic challenges, and limited health education take a toll, creating alarming disparities. Tackling these chronic illnesses isn’t just about medical treatments; it’s also about understanding the social factors that contribute to these issues, and creating real pathways to better health.

And let’s not forget the stigma around mental health that looms large! In many of these communities, talking about mental wellness can feel like taboo, as if it’s a sign of weakness. This mindset often stems from cultural beliefs, historical trauma, and simply a lack of knowledge about mental health. To break these barriers, we need to spark open conversations and provide education that makes discussing mental health feel safe and normal. We want to empower individuals to prioritize their wellness without fear or shame.

That’s where community engagement comes into play. I truly believe that together, we can pave the way for real change! It’s vital to build trust within these communities—not just delivering resources but really listening to the unique voices and experiences of the people

SM: How has the health and wellness field evolved since you began, and what trends do you find most exciting?

NH: With over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry and multiple certifications, I have witnessed firsthand how the field has evolved significantly. Initially, the focus was often heavily placed on physical fitness and nutrition, with so many people thinking that movement alone was the primary pathway to a healthier lifestyle. While physical activity is undoubtedly important, my journey in the field has illuminated the necessity of a more holistic approach.

As I delved deeper into wellness, I began to appreciate the importance of gut health and detoxification. Early on, I viewed health journeys through a narrow lens, primarily centered around exercise and diet. However, as science has advanced, we now understand that gut health plays a critical role in our overall well-being. The recognition of the microbiome’s influence on everything from digestion to mental health has been revolutionary, underscoring the interconnectedness of our bodily systems.

I know my learning expanded into the realm of emotional strength and mental resilience. That’s when, I quickly realized that physical health is only one piece of the puzzle. Recovery and growth in one’s health journey are profoundly impacted by emotional and psychological factors. This understanding shifted my perspective; I now emphasize the significance of mental wellness in my programs, helping individuals build emotional strength as they navigate their journeys towards health.

Recently, I found the rise of community-based wellness initiatives to be particularly exciting. Such programs foster a sense of belonging and support, encouraging myself and other individuals like me to share their experiences and learn from one another. I believe, The power of community cannot be overstated; strong support systems can significantly enhance both motivation and accountability.

Another trend that I find exhilarating is the integration of technology into wellness coaching. The emergence of virtual support groups, mobile wellness apps, and online coaching tools has transformed the accessibility of wellness resources. These technological developments allow us to reach broader audiences, bridging geographical gaps previously experienced in healthcare and wellness. Individuals can now engage in wellness activities from the comfort of their homes, participate in online communities, and access expert guidance without the constraints of location or scheduling.

SM: How does community-based wellness support differ from individual coaching, and what impact have you seen it have on participants?

NH: The growth of my social wellness group, WELL OUT LOUD, has shown me just how powerful community support can be! While individual coaching is great for personal guidance, it can’t match the feeling of belonging that comes from being in a group. In my experience, when people come together for wellness, they motivate and uplift each other. This shared experience makes everyone more committed to their health journey.

I’ve seen so many amazing things happen in our group. Participants gain confidence, form lasting friendships, and tackle personal challenges together. It’s inspiring to watch! Many women, in particular, crave an outlet and want people to cheer them on. That need was one of the main reasons I started my dance business. I wanted to create a space where women could express themselves and support one another, and this shaped how I envisioned our social wellness club.

WELL OUT LOUD is all about bringing women together to celebrate their successes, share their struggles, and find strength in each other. It’s so exciting to see how our members cheer for one another and create bonds that go beyond just wellness. This community has made a huge difference in their lives. They feel empowered, connected, and ready to tackle anything!

SM: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future of your wellness management company, and how do you hope to continue impacting the health and wellness space?

NH: Looking to the future, I have some awesome goals for my wellness management company! I want to expand our programs to reach even more people by teaming up with groups that help those who need it most. My dream is to teach as many people as possible how to be responders for mental health and wellness. That way, they can help others in need!

I’m all about promoting whole-body wellness and making mental health a priority. I want to keep up with what our communities need, making sure everyone feels supported and empowered. My goal is to create a lasting program that helps individuals and builds stronger, healthier communities.

As a Wellness Lifestyle Expert, I’m excited to partner with schools, organizations, and churches to share how important wellness is for everyone. I want to show them what good health looks like and how they can support their team members. My mission is to let them know that they have people like me ready to help them on their wellness journey.

I can’t wait to teach and inspire wherever I go! Together, we can make a big difference, helping everyone live happier and healthier lives!

“I want to show them what good health looks like and how they can support their team members. My mission is to let them know that they have people like me ready to help them on their wellness journey.”

– Nadya Hard

Links

• LinkedIn
• Award

Share Your Insights

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your perspective in the comments:

1. How has your own journey shaped your approach to wellness?
2. What strategies have you found most effective in overcoming personal challenges?
3. How can community support enhance your health and well-being?

Join the conversation and let’s inspire each other!

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