You Don’t Have to Be “Healthy” to Work with a Health Coach
Written by Sarah Parkins. Published July 21, 2025
There’s a common misconception that health coaches are uber healthy people, and to work with one you also have to have your health “together”. The misinformed view is that people with health coaches already have good health, eat well, exercise regularly, meditate, and have their stress mostly managed. That’s simply not true. You don’t have to be healthy to work with a health coach. You just need a willingness to work with your body, be open to something different, and be ready to transform.
Here’s the truth: as a health coach I still have struggles. I have physical symptoms and challenges that come and go. I face emotional and mental challenges that can feel overwhelming. My spiritual journey has its ups and downs. And that’s with years of knowledge, training, experience, wisdom, and access to practices and services that many don’t. Why? Because this is what it means to be human.
Living in alignment doesn’t mean living without struggles - it means traveling through illness, discomfort, and confusion in a different way. Instead of fighting my symptoms or pushing through the pain, I’ve learned to work with my body. When something shows up - a headache, fatigue, anxiety, or that unexplained pain - I don’t dismiss it or reach immediately for a painkiller fix or a panicked appointment. Instead, I pause and listen.
I ask myself, What is this trying to tell me? What’s beneath the surface? What needs my attention? What has been going on in my life recently?
That kind of curiosity changes everything. It’s the foundation for real healing, not just symptom management.
You don’t need to be “perfect” or have all the answers. You don’t need to have tried every diet or exercise plan or therapy out there. You just need to be willing to explore what works for you. Willing to try new approaches. Willing to be open and honest about what isn’t working, even if that feels vulnerable or uncomfortable.
Health coaching isn’t about giving you a prescription or telling you what to do. It’s not about diagnose, treatment or cure. It’s about creating a space where you can discover what your body really needs - and then learning how to meet those needs in a sustainable way. It’s about finding your own path instead of trying to fit into someone else’s - fill in the blank... partner, family, friend, doctor, or institution - version of health.
If you’re tired of masking symptoms, pushing yourself to the brink, or cycling through temporary fixes -know that there is another way. A way that involves listening to your body, honoring its wisdom, and moving toward wellness with compassion and patience.
This journey isn’t about arriving at some fixed state called “healthy.” It’s about willingness. Willingness to be curious. Willingness to transform. Willingness to open a door to something new.
And that’s enough to start.
Disclaimer: The information and services provided by Birch Cove are for educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Birch Cove is not a medical provider and does not treat, cure, or prescribe for any medical conditions unless otherwise stated. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any medical concerns. Birch Cove assumes no liability for actions taken based on the provided information or services. Product links may be affiliate links, meaning Birch Cove could receive a small commission on purchases.
