Because her family has a history of health challenges, Jessica has always made efforts to live a healthy lifestyle. On a daily basis, she spends her lunch hour walking a couple of laps near her clinic. Her route allows her to walk 2 miles while grabbing a healthy meal along the way. She also finds other ways to incorporate exercise into her day, like taking stretch breaks whenever she gets the chance.

Was there something that prompted you to get healthy, or is this something you have always done?

I’ve tried to stay healthy for a long time; it’s something I’ve always done. There can be a genetic aspect to health issues, so I really want to take care of myself to stay healthy.

What is your exercise routine?

I walk during my lunch break. I do two laps, which is about 2 miles. My ‘laps’ are in the area across the street from our clinic. I track my route on my watch to make sure I get in at least a couple of miles.

Are there any other exercises you do regularly?

After work, I go to Memorial Hermann Park or a nearby track to jog and walk. I’ll do that for 3 miles and follow it up with leg lifts, crunches, or lifting some small weights. I do this every day as well. If it’s raining, I’ll use my treadmill at home. While at work, I find time to do some stretches. On the weekends, I take a break from working out.

How do you maintain a healthy diet?

I eat salad often and drink a lot of water – about 2 liters a day. I watch my portion sizes for my meals. While walking during my lunch break, I will stop at the Starbucks along my route and get a salad or one of their protein meals. For breakfast, I’ve been trying to eat oatmeal. I’m not great at meal prepping, but for dinner I eat a lot of fish or chicken. I don’t eat much red meat.

What is your favorite cheat meal?

Mexican food! And I’ll also have a dessert. But I feel guilty if I have a cupcake or something, so I will go work out a little extra if I eat a dessert!

How do you encourage your coworkers to be healthy?

I invite them to walk with me!

What do you do to relax?

I watch TV – I’ll watch something on Netflix and just chill!