Before enrolling at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), Laura Blazak spent over a decade working as a nurse in western medicine, starting her career in 2009. Over the years, she witnessed countless people struggling with chronic illness, often resigned to the belief that “this is just the way it is for me.” She also listened to many friends and acquaintances, particularly women, sharing their struggles with hormonal imbalances and difficulty maintaining healthy eating habits.
These experiences sparked her curiosity about natural health and wellness. She began to research alternative approaches to healthcare in her free time, and this pursuit filled her with a deep sense of purpose. The turning point came when she realized she wanted to dedicate her life to helping others live their healthiest lives. Remembering SWIHA from her time living in Arizona, she reached out, enrolled in the Holistic Health and Wellness Coaching program, and embarked on a transformative journey that she is profoundly grateful for.
A Defining Moment: Discovering Her True Path
For Laura, the defining moment came early in her journey. Witnessing the suffering of so many people—often without access to solutions beyond what conventional medicine could offer—tugged at her heart. She felt a deep desire to show them that a healthier, more vibrant life was possible. This moment of clarity fueled her passion for holistic health and gave her the conviction to pursue her new path. She wanted to offer support and tangible tools to those feeling helpless, guiding them toward their best, healthiest lives.
A Life Transformed
Since beginning her studies at SWIHA, Laura’s life has shifted dramatically. She describes herself as more grounded, living with a mindset of growth and presence. The knowledge she’s gained and the connections she’s made along the way have been invaluable in shaping her own life and helping her flourish both personally and professionally. This journey has given her a newfound sense of peace and confidence, allowing her to live her life with a sense of fullness.
What’s Next: A New Career in Wellness
Recently, Laura finished the final classes of her SWIHA program, and graduated July 2024. She’s already begun working as a health and wellness coach at a functional wellness clinic in Utah, where she advocates for natural approaches to health. Alongside her professional work, she continues to deepen her knowledge and practices, integrating mindfulness, breathwork, and outdoor activities into her daily routine. She starts each day with meditation, walks a few miles before work, meal preps nutritious recipes, and spends time outdoors with friends, making space for travel on the weekends.
Yes2youandwellness: Empowering Others on Their Health Journey
In addition to her role at the wellness clinic, Laura owns her own health and wellness coaching business, Yes2youandwellness. Through her business, she works with both individuals and groups to provide guidance and support for healthier living. Through her coaching, she helps clients embrace healthier lifestyles, providing them with the same tools and insights that have transformed her own life.
Lessons Learned on the SWIHA Journey
Reflecting on her time at SWIHA, Laura highlights several key lessons that have been instrumental in her growth. Chief among them is the importance of vulnerability, which she believes is essential for becoming one’s authentic self. She’s also learned that it’s okay to be a work in progress, and that shifting one’s mindset can unlock new possibilities. Embracing the power of the word “yet”—as in, “I’m not there yet”—has been a powerful reminder for her that growth is an ongoing process.
Inspirational Teachers and Classes
Among the many impactful teachers she encountered at SWIHA, Sharlene Nordquist stands out as the one who inspired her the most. Nordquist’s authenticity and insight challenged Laura to become her best self, providing the support and encouragement she needed to grow. She also thoroughly enjoyed the psychology and microbiome wellness classes, with Jacquie Leone’s engaging and supportive teaching style making the microbiome course particularly memorable.
Advice for Future SWIHA Students
To those considering enrolling at SWIHA, Laura offers this advice: “Come as you are, learn, grow, be present, and be vulnerable. Trust the process, and you’ll have an incredible journey.”
Continuing the Journey
While Laura Blazak has already accomplished so much, she’s not done yet. Her time at SWIHA has sparked a desire for further education, and she plans to continue her studies. Though she’s not sure of the specific path she’ll take next, one thing is certain—her passion for helping others live healthier, more fulfilling lives will continue to guide her on this beautiful journey of growth.
