Ep. 27 - Unlocking Holistic Healing and Wellness: Faith, Nutrition, and Community with Health Coach Michelle Fletcher

The Holistic Counselor

Welcome Fearfully and Wonderfully Made human!

In today’s episode, I sit down with someone who has been a part of my holistic health journey. Back in 2012, after my son River’s traumatic brain injury, I started searching for natural ways to help his healing. One of the first books I read was Nourish Your Noggin by Tina M. Sullivan, and that’s when I began exploring holistic health to help my son. During this journey, I connected with Sharon Farrar, who introduced me to today’s guest, Michelle Fletcher. Sharon and Michelle became lifelines during this challenging season, offering support, hope, and guidance.

In this episode, Michelle and I discuss how holistic health impacted our families, the power of nutrition, and how our Caribbean backgrounds and faith shaped our approach to health and community. Michelle has a wealth of experience in holistic business and health, and today she shares how she balances it all while supporting others in the wellness industry.

About Michelle Fletcher:

Michelle Fletcher, with roots in Jamaica and England, has lived in Fort Lauderdale, FL, since 1986. She’s the founder of the Holistic Business Network, which connects holistic practitioners and promotes health services and products. Through her 13-year partnership with Juice Plus & Tower Garden, Michelle has grown into a leader, reaching the top 5% in her business. She’s a Certified LEAN Health Coach and passionate public speaker, advocating for small and medium holistic businesses. Michelle’s career began in IT, but after losing her corporate job in 2009, she transitioned into holistic health and has helped countless people on their wellness journeys.

Quotes from the Episode:

Michelle: “I love to live the lifestyle out loud and show people what can be done. Nutrition, movement, and faith are powerful tools to balance our lives, and it starts with small, intentional steps.”

Diana: “Holistic health isn’t just about physical recovery—it’s nourishing the mind, body, and spirit. The sense of community that Sharon and Michelle fostered gave me the strength to keep going.”

Michelle: “Holistic to me means using faith, science, and nature to guide how we care for our bodies. Not everything that’s labeled ‘holistic’ falls in line with what I believe, but I always stick to what’s grounded in science and God’s word.”

Diana: “We need each other in this journey of health and faith. Finding a supportive community is vital, especially when navigating the unknowns of health challenges.”

Key Topics Discussed:

• The story of how I met Michelle through Sharon Farrar during my son’s recovery.

• The role of Nourish Your Noggin in shaping my holistic health journey.

• Our shared Caribbean heritage and how it influences our perspectives on health, community, and wellness.

• Michelle’s journey from IT to holistic health and how she balances her professional and personal life.

• The growth and mission of the Holistic Business Network in supporting holistic health practitioners globally.

• How faith, community, and holistic health intersect for BIPOC women navigating wellness.

Books & Resources Mentioned:

• Nourish Your Noggin by Tina M. Sullivan

• Juice Plus & Tower Garden Program

• Feel Well Magazine (Michelle is featured on the December 2023 cover)

• Holistic Business Network

• Bible app: YouVersion (for daily devotionals)

Michelle’s Practical Tips for Holistic Health:

1. Start the day with God’s word: Michelle begins her mornings with the YouVersion Bible app, grounding her day with scripture and reflection.

2. Stay active: Physical movement is key to stress relief and mental clarity, whether it’s through regular workouts or simply staying active throughout the day.

3. Focus on nutrition: Michelle highlights how nutrition is foundational, encouraging listeners to incorporate more whole, clean foods like fruits and vegetables into their diet.

4. Build a strong support system: Surrounding yourself with a community that encourages and uplifts you is essential for both mental and physical wellness.

How Holistic Health Impacts Mental Health:

Michelle and I discuss how holistic practices—especially nutrition and supportive community—directly impact mental health. Whole foods can help improve mood, balance stress, and reduce inflammation. Michelle shares how her focus on these aspects helped her, her family, and her clients.

Connect with Michelle Fletcher:

• Instagram: @healthcoachmich

• Instagram: @theholisticbusinessnetwork

• Website: theholisticbusinessnetwork.com

Connect with Diana Rice, LMHC, CIMHP:

If you’re interested in learning more about holistic mental health practices or want to reach out to me directly, you can find me here:

• Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy

• Website: Through The Valley Therapy

• Podcast: The Holistic Counselor Podcast

Final Thoughts:

Michelle’s journey is a testament to the power of holistic health, community, and faith. Whether you’re looking for ways to balance your mind, body, and spirit or seeking to grow a holistic business, Michelle’s story and insights will inspire you to take intentional steps toward better health. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, practical tips, and inspiration!

Hashtags:

#HolisticHealth #BIPOCWellness #CaribbeanRoots #MentalHealthMatters #HolisticBusinessNetwork #JuicePlus #TheHolisticCounselorPodcast #FaithBasedWellness #CommunityHealing #MichelleFletcher #ThroughtheValleyTherapy #LiberationLunes #ChristianMentalHealth #BrownGirlTherapy