The Primal Zone ®

"i have created a way to live the rest of my life (Simon, 49)

I have created a way to live the rest of my life with purpose and balance.

I am a man clinging onto his late forties with a very busy and hectic schedule. I have a beautiful family, manage my own businesses and consult for others as well.

Four years ago, I was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes.  With little support or guidance from the NHS, I have been learning to live with this life-altering condition on my own, while managing the demands of business and family life.

My career in events involves late nights, early mornings and a lot of socialising. Perfect for someone with a “work hard, play hard” mindset. But since my diagnosis, that lifestyle began taking its toll.

My weight spiralled, my blood sugars were all over the place and my HBA1C levels were dangerously high.  Add to that a lack of energy and chronic sleep deprivation. 

At my lowest ebb, I decided to change things.

Getting hold of a PT was only the start, as I then felt I needed someone to confide in and help initially with my nutrition.

Sheila offered much more than this. The opportunity to have a safe space to discuss everything health and lifestyle allowed me to implement subtle changes that would allow me not only see weight loss (2 stone and more than 7” off my waist), but confidently wear clothes that I had hidden at the back of the wardrobe.

The biggest positive from this process was having a platform to open up and discuss all manner of subjects confidentially, which created real change in my mental wellbeing which, in turn, has resulted in higher energy, better sleep and sharper focus.

Whilst I am still a work in progress, I now feel that I have the tools to prioritise myself.  This journey has empowered me to become the best version of myself – not only for me, but for everyone around me. 

"The difference Sheila has made in my life is quite remarkable. (mel h, 64)

"The difference Sheila has made in my life is quite remarkable.

I started working with Sheila in late 2022 and I initially thought the relationship would focus purely on nutrition and exercise, but it went a lot deeper than that, exploring the reasons behind my habits and ‘excuses’ for not looking after myself as well as I could.

Early on, Sheila had me focusing on where my focus was in relation to desires and goals (her favourite expression is 'where the focus goes, is where the energy goes’), and pretty soon I was practicing Meditation, Visualisation and Gratitude every day.

For me, this was really helpful, as this practice became the foundation for changed behaviours in relation to how I treated not just my physical self, but also my spiritual self, and has enabled me to really live as the best version of me (of course I have days where I fall off this pedestal of virtuosity, but Sheila’s has helped me see that is it’s OK every now and again to fall, it just doesn’t mean that’s an excuse to give up).

So, the best version of me is being honourable to myself, kind to myself, trusting of myself and believing of myself, and all of this has improved not just my relationship with myself and how I treat my body, but also my relationships with other people.

The longer term goals we set are still very much alive, I am definitely on the path to realising a number of my dreams and we have kept in contact for regular ‘check ins’ since we finished our formal sessions, which shows me that Sheila really cares for her clients.

There are many coaches out there that do a good enough job, but there are a smaller number who are really effective and help to instigate dynamic, positive, long lasting change.

Sheila is one of the latter, and I count myself very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with her" MEL H (64)

“Sheila's safe and confidential Support during My Mental Health crisis” (Gary, 42 - August 2023)

Two weeks ago, I reached out to Sheila as I was in a very unsafe place with my mental health.

Having recently been diagnosed with severe PTSD, I was finding it tough to cope and everything seemed to be getting on top of me. I needed to talk. Sheila immediately gave me a safe and confidential space to talk, shout, cry.

Over a 3 hour window, we covered the trauma, behaviours, impact of others and recognising it was not all my fault, but also that the ‘elastic band ball in my head’ (as Sheila described it) meant that all my challenges good and bad were tightly knitted into one big stress ball that was not allowing me to separate and function properly.

She ‘stayed’ with me at the end of the phone that day until an ambulance arrived. I’m not sure where I would be right now if she hadn’t said yes to the call.

She helped take the weight off my shoulders by enabling me to talk and I now have a clearer vision and understanding. I was also able to speak with her over the weekend and she has continued to check in with me.

I am receiving really good therapy and support, but also beginning to understand my behaviours more and learning that they were because of the trauma events I had been through. I am starting to heal and proud that I am now talking about it having kept it secret for years.

Always check in with those you may be concerned about.

If you are struggling call The Samaritans on 116 123.

Important to talk, someone is always there.

#worldsuicidepreventionday

“sheila creates a safe space, enabling trust and openness” (Barry, 66)

I have known Sheila for over 10 years and have always recognised that she is very candid, open and genuine. Now I know she gets results too. She is incredibly tenacious and once she puts her mind to something she gets it done!

I found myself in a situation where I needed to reframe the way I was thinking about things professionally and personally and wanted to be able to work through them rather than over think and procrastinate, which would lead me to holding on to them and stressing.

Sheila creates a safe space, enabling trust and openness, with humour, firm accountability and sensitivity, which enabled me to share things that I felt I was unable to share with friends, colleagues or even family. Would highly recommend.

NO LONGER “TRAPPED IN A CYCLE THAT WOULD HAVE PREVENTED ME FROM STARTING A NEW CHAPTER IN MY LIFE" (TOM, 44 - SOUTH AFRICA)

“Despite numerous attempts to lose weight and improve my health, I found myself caught in a discouraging cycle. I would summon the motivation to make a change, start implementing healthier eating habits and exercise routines, but after a few months of effort, I would see little to no progress and eventually regress to my starting point. This cycle left me feeling trapped and disheartened.

I needed professional help! With luck I came across Sheila!

Prior to meeting with Sheila, I experienced a decrease in energy levels around 3pm on a daily basis. I felt unmotivated and lacked the confidence to overcome the challenges I was facing. Additionally, I was unsure of how to progress and often found myself stuck in a cycle of slow weight loss or even returning to my starting point.

Sheila provided me with easy-to-follow advice that has made a real difference in my life. Her approach was not only practical and effective, but also compassionate and supportive. She took the time to understand my individual needs and circumstances, and tailored her guidance to fit my specific goals and lifestyle.

Since working with Sheila, I have experienced an incredible increase in my energy levels, a greater clarity of mind, and am losing weight. The ‘discouraging cycle’ I found myself in before has been broken … The " I should do it" now changed to …. "I could do it!"

I believe that had I not sought the guidance of Sheila, I would have remained trapped in a cycle that would have prevented me from starting a new chapter in my life and hindered my ability to socialise with others. My health would have further declined, and with the added risk of diabetes, my life would have become even more challenging.

I am so grateful for the positive impact Sheila has had on my life, and would highly recommend her services to anyone looking to improve their health and wellness. Thank you, Sheila, for all that you do!”

If you are a midlife man, like Tom, and have found yourself trapped in a cycle of bad choices, health struggles, a lack of confidence and zest for life, but would love to feel stronger and more energetic; have improved mood and mindset, plus be more confident (mentally and physically) click on https://theprimalzone.as.me/discovery for a complimentary and confidential 60 minute discussion about your challenges and aspirations.

Do you want to feel powerful, positive and confident? (malcolm 62)

Thrilled to receive a voicemail from this 62 year old male client recently. Only one month in and the lifestyle changes made are already not only having a huge impact on his physical and mental wellbeing, but also in his business, his relationships, his choices and his confidence.

"Morning. Woke up feeling really positive, I slept great and started the day with a guided meditation. Honestly feeling really powerful, confident and the body feels good and the head feels good”

Truly shows that just small but consistent changes that are sustainable can make you feel quite excited about living your life.

What do you want to do with yours? Thrive or just survive? Do you want to know more about how the magic happens when I work with my clients?

Call me for a free 60 minute confidential discovery call https://theprimalzone.as.me/discovery

#powerful #male #men #strength #confidence #thrive #positive

THIS JOURNEY IS FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. wHY WOULD IT NOT BE WHEN IT FEELS SO GOOD? (John 52)

“I'm a man in his 50s that has a truly positive outlook on life. I have a beautiful family, am the MD of my own successful business with a strong team. I am passionate about what I do and the dreams and goals that I have for the future.

However, working and playing hard, prioritising others and work before myself was taking its toll.  One day, a photo taken caught me at a bad angle, I was not impressed and I realised I needed to make change. My energy was low, I was carrying excess weight, had an issue with knee that needed an operation and which was dictating everything I did,

I had some big milestone business and personal events coming up that I wanted to be my absolute best for (mentally, physically and in great health). Ensuring that I was looking and feeling at my peak, being able to lead the business into a very exciting next 10 years.

I did plenty of research, including lots of reading and chose Sheila as she had successfully worked with men like myself.

From the get-go, she understood my 'why'. Which was so vital.  Sheila created a safe space, enabling trust and openness, which enabled me to share things that I felt I was unable to share  with friends, colleagues or even family. 

Sheila offers a discovery call and then an onboarding session, which were vital for her to dig deep into my habits, passions, challenges and goals and in turn build a programme for me.  We worked together for 12 weeks, each week taking into account things that were happening in my life/business that could impact my choices and wellbeing.  She was very patient and understanding when something derailed or took priority – a great listener.

We covered my short, mid and long term goals, which helped really focus what was important and what simple steps and strategies were useful.

From the start, it felt like an injection of wellbeing and totally liberating.  I now feel more alive, alert, ready, positive, strong and enjoy the difference in how my body feels. Plus, my recovery from the knee operation was easy and I am now able to jog and do my body weight training again, which I thought were a thing of the past.

I’m an extremely uncomplicated man and Sheila’s approach with me was knowledgeable, understanding and humorous, plus it got results (some of which I was not expecting).  The coaching sessions made me understand that this is the journey for rest of my life.  Why would it not be when it feels so good?”

If you are a midlife man, like John, and have lost sight of your goals and would like to get back on track; feel stronger and more energetic; improve your mood and libido, plus be more confident (mentally and physically) click on https://theprimalzone.as.me/discovery for a complimentary and confidential 60 minute discussion about your challenges and aspirations.

50 year old BUSINESS OWNER : INFLAMMED, STRESSED, out of breath, overweight and embarrassed of how HE looked (Tim O)

I started working with Sheila when I was approaching my 50th birthday.  As a happily married man with a very young daughter, I was aware of the fact that I was an older dad and wanted to be very much part of the school sports days (superdad!) and the proud dad moments as I aged.  Sounds maybe a little competitive, but important that I could be my best for her as well as myself.  Rather than feeling out of breath, overweight and embarrassed of how I looked.

I had recently been made redundant and was setting up my own business which came with its own trials and tribulations - especially on confidence and finances.  Everything seemed to be happening at once.  My reason for reaching out was that I wanted to lose weight, reduce my stress, re-build body confidence and focus on building some strategies that will get me stronger, fitter and increase energy, especially as I love my golf and enjoy running.  I also have sleep apnea and crohns disease.

Sheila brough practical nutritional advice immediately, which straight away improved energy and mental clarity.  But it's when I started doing meditation in the evenings and the walks with her that I appreciated that this was more than just the food I put into my body, but recognising how making changes in mental and physical lifestyle approaches positively enhance my life, but also the life of my family.

Sheila offered a safe and confidential space, so much so that I was surprised how much I shared.  I didn't realise, but it is so interesting to understand how a lot of the things discussed were having an impact on my wellbeing.  

Accountability partnership is key and Sheila still checks in with me regularly and we occasionally meet for a Parkrun. 

I LOVE MY WORK 💕

59 year old retired policeman / RUGBY COACH - wiltshire, UK - weight loss, sleep, body composition, gut inflammation and energy goals

Wonderful video testimonial from Richard who was wishing to make health and wellness changes following his 30 years in the police force, struggling with gut inflammation, sleep, body composition, weight and energy levels.

54 year old pro golfer - berkshire, UK - weight loss, mindset, confidence and Energy goals

I’m a golf pro and during lockdown 3 at the end of January 2021 having been unable to work, I was starting to put weight on, felt bloated, lethargic and energy was low.   I realised I needed to do something to prevent losing control of my health, fitness and self-esteem.

Sheila and I were communicating regarding a separate unrelated subject when I clicked on her digital business card. 

Following a little research and a free discovery call which involved understanding my challenges and goals and how she could help me, I enrolled in Sheila’s 12 week programme.

Sheila guided me through the assessment and the structured stages were monitored via specific applications on my phone and tablet.  Weekly coaching calls kept me accountable and on track. 

This programme has changed the way I look at my food and lifestyle choices, how important small amounts of movement and strength training are and recognising what choices I make will sabotage my success in health, fitness, work and personal life.

I will continue with the primal lifestyle.  These lifechanging habits are easy and sustainable.

I am delighted to report that I have reduced my weight by 14 lbs, feel and look so much better in my clothing (some I haven’t worn for 2 years), my mental clarity has improved, and my confidence has returned.   I now feel that I also have the energy to work those longer hours.

Thank you, Sheila, for your guidance and support. Steve Geary

36 year old male - DUBLIN, REPUBLIC OF IRELAND - weight loss and Energy goals

Thank you Siraj for allowing me to share part one of our journey together.

Following a rugby injury 10 years ago, Siraj had allowed the weight to creep on over the years. At 21 stone with his own business and young family, he realised he needed to do something sustainable to lose the weight as health concerns were being mentioned.

Eating a high carb/sugar ultra processed diet (often a lunch would be a white roll and a can of coke), being incredibly busy with his business and family, he was not finding any time to care for himself at all. No time for movement, nutrition, sleep and mindfulness.

However, Siraj has been almost 100% all in with the primal lifestyle and, although still craves bread, has embraced new colourful, nutritious and satiating foods. I have so enjoyed our weekly calls and seeing the progress achieved over the past 16 weeks.

•       27lbs lost

•         By week 9 – 7” off waist

•         Jogging for first time in years

•         Practising daily meditation

•         Up to 20k steps per day

•         Sleep improved

•         Energy and mental clarity increased

Siraj now often refers to his ‘famous’ belt. Having never needed a belt before, he is now proudly on notch 3.  Just look at that smile!

50 YEAR OLD MALE - WEIGHT LOSS AND MINDSET ADJUSTMENTS

I am writing this just 4 months after contacting Sheila and am proudly doing so having lost over 2.5 stone (37 pounds) in weight, improved my mindset dramatically and made permanent adjustments to my lifestyle as a direct result of the coaching and programme.

I should add that I am 50 years old, and am now fitter, stronger and healthier than I was 20 years ago and I weigh the same now as I did when I was in my mid 20s! Taking the decision and acting on it requires personal commitment and a readiness for making changes to your own life, but The Primal Zone gives you the guidance, support and help you need to do so.

I cannot promise everyone will experience the programme as I have because every person is different and the programme is designed and implemented to meet your specific needs. That’s why it's so great, a custom built personal health and improvement programme which helps you move closer towards becoming the best version of yourself that you can be.

Costs might deter some, but it should be viewed as an investment that generates value for you. That value transfer is something that will be specific to each individual but for me it has helped me perform better in my business life as well as enjoy and do much more in my personal life so the “investment” has delivered dividends and continues to do so for me.

Sheila Docker heads The Primal Zone up and is fair, consistent and most of all, flexible enough to work with you and your life but robust enough to ensure that you make progress…..The rest is up to you so take my lead and go for it. I sincerely doubt you will regret.

55 year old male - Washington, DC - weight loss and IBS GOALS

I received Primal health coaching from Sheila Docker for twelve weeks starting in early January, 2021. It is rather odd that I would hire a Primal Health Coach because I am actually a certified Primal Health Coach myself! In addition to my own health coaching certification I also earned an instructor certification in progressive calisthenics, and this is where I have chosen to focus. Although I received the same education as Sheila, I was never able to really remain focused on my diet and lifestyle (except for exercise) in order to make the changes in my health and body composition that I really want. This is why I sought her help.

I believe that my having been already educated about the Primal lifestyle presented some advantages and some disadvantages for Sheila. She did not need to teach me from the ground up, which may have saved some time and effort, but given that I already know the details of the Primal diet and lifestyle, it may have been more difficult for her to help me actually employ them, than for someone starting from scratch. I can be a stubborn pupil!

My goals were modest weight loss and improved digestive health. I suffer from mild to moderate IBS and some acid reflux. Within three weeks of coaching I lost 12 pounds and was able to maintain that weight loss throughout. My digestive symptoms are now improved significantly and more importantly, I know exactly what to do now in the event that they slip. Interestingly, part-way through coaching I experienced a sudden escalation of my symptoms. Fortunately Sheila was able to quickly adapt and pivot to a new strategy, which put things back on track.

Aside from knowledge and education, communication and accountability are the keys to health coaching, and why it is a unique and valuable component of modern health-care. Indeed, the keys to health coaching are the very things lacking in the standard doctor - patient relationship. And communication and accountability were the very things that I was lacking when trying to apply my training to my own health challenges. If you have someone who you know is paying attention to your needs and your efforts, and who listens intently and provides intelligent feedback and advice, then you are much more likely to be able to meet your challenges than you would be if you were trying to do it on your own. I know from experience that this is true.

As a health coach Sheila Docker is a natural. I looked forward to our calls and left them feeling as though I had had successful therapy. She's attentive, observant, quick-witted, and creates a relaxing atmosphere. Honestly, by the time our twelve weeks were up, I did not want it to end.

67 year old male - Mindset Goals and inflammatory issues

63 year old male - weight loss and metabolic health goals

18.5 stone, totally sedentary high powered job with daily commute, didn't exercise other than walking the dog at the weekend, incredibly high carb diet without much fruit or veg. Was already aware of his high blood pressure but recently found out that his cholesterol was high also and he would have to go on medication, which he didn’t want to do. He realised he had to make changes and totally committed. Prepared to hold himself accountable he signed up for our 3 month programme (1:1) at beginning of March 2020. This looked at all elements of his day to day life and included some he was totally unfamiliar with - sun exposure, real food diet, body strength exercise, moving regularly, sleep and play. Mid June 2020 : 16 stone, cholesterol now in the normal range and his blood pressure the best it has been in 20 years.

'I haven't felt this confident, strong and energetic in decades. I was feeling like a much older man and looking it. The steps were so simple and, even though I was reluctant to give up the food I enjoyed, the results outweigh any pastry or donut'.

July 2020 update: treated myself to post lockdown new SMALLER pair of jeans. Want to lose another half stone and intend to remain Primal 80/20. See what my doctors say when I go back at the end of the year, I think this has regained me 10 years. 10 years of actually living rather than surviving. Laurence (Beaconsfield, Bucks)

58 year old male - weight loss and nutrition goals

Richard, 57, retired from 30 years in the police force two years ago. Referring to himself as the original ‘Pilsbury Doughboy’, at 5’11 he was weighing in at almost 18 stone whilst on the beat.

Now enjoying a more physical self employed job as a landscaper and decorator, he is moving more and lifting heavy things, plus having a better sleep pattern (ie no shifts) and the ability to eat good food without rushing, he has positively changed his body composition and lost over 1 stone in weight.

However, he really wanted to shift at least another stone. With good healthy numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.) and no major stressors in his life, he signed up for the Primal Zone 21 Day Online Reset Challenge. Teaching him the primal concepts, Richard is already looking more body confident and has lost another half stone, which will be sustainable living primally!! Richard (Chippenham, Wilts)

60s MALE - GERD, WEIGHT LOSS AND ENERGY

It's not just about weight loss, think GERD!!

"Within 3 weeks from working with the Primal Zone I had started to feel more healthy - and I also lost about 5lbs in the process!

I had been suffering with heartburn, indigestion and reflux. However, by choosing Primal foods and recipes, those digestion issues quickly disappeared.

Recently, I gave in to temptation at a restaurant and chose a beef pie with mashed potato - followed by an Eton Mess dessert.

However, because of problems that night with heartburn and reflux, I will definitely choose my next meal out with a little more Primal consideration!" Howard (aged 60)