On the path of wellness

Zahr Wellness is described as “a refreshing experience that identifies health and wellness imbalances and nutritional gaps through a holistic evaluation and guides you onto the path of perfect health and well-being.” Shalizahr Belgrove, managing director at Zahr, had the idea for quite some time, but held off until now, before beginning her journey toward helping others realise their best selves.

“This idea to have a wellness centre/ spa spawned in 2012,” she recalled. “It was my first year of my BSc in Occupational Health and Safety when I was exposed to a holistic wellness seminar on a balanced life and how it impacts the well being of a human.” That encounter with the concept sparked her curiosity, that curiosity became part of her overarching outlook.

“One of my foundation philosophies has always been service to others before self,” Belgrove says, “and what better way than natural wellness, so I thought of it, did research, surveyed the market and consulted some people.

After this process it was in my second year I wrote down my goal to launch a holistic wellness centre.” The centre offers body composition and weight management consultation, weight loss programmes, massage therapy and personal trainers. It also provides natural supplements tailored to meet its clientele’s needs.

She says Zahr is a living, breathing concept that continues to develop.

“The initial idea was to have workout and support groups, dieting tips and recipes along with nationwide seminars and tours on the importance of health and wellness.

“However, my vision has since evolved. I, now seek to impact the life of at least one individual in each household across the Caribbean as they follow my path to holistic well-being.” She believes that, more than ever, healthy lifestyles are essential to our society.

“I believe health and wellness are important as it creates a sense of peace that subdues the stresses from external situations,” Belgrove says. “If you live a highly stressful life, then wellness will help alleviate those stresses by connecting you with your inner peace and improve your physical health.

“At Zahr Wellness, instances of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) may be reduced firstly by a thorough cleansing process, diet improvement, exercise and supplements,” she says.

“On a larger societal scale, preventing these diseases will require changes in behaviours related to smoking, physical activity, investments in education, food policies, and urban physical infrastructure.” According to Belgrove, a healthy society often translates to a more productive one with a higher life expectancy. “It also allows your body to become free from various forms of disorders and may enjoy a longer life.

You can live a life without suffering from any aches, pain or discomfort.

“People deserve to feel fulfilled in their lives as a whole,” she opines.

“When a person’s wellness is heightened, so too is their ability to be productive in all phases of their life: home, work, relationships, etc.” She says the knock-on effects are all positive.

“Of course, the overall sense of wellness also helps with illness and therefore decreases the need for the traditional healthcare system. In addition, this new-found health allows for a happier environment where you can be a productive member of the society where you can improve your life and the lives of others.” There are three consultants attached to Zahr Wellness for massage therapy, personal training and nutrition, after consultation clients will be referred to one of these, or can choose to seek professional help elsewhere.

For more info: zahrwellness@ gmail.com.