Balans Team Member Spotlight: Ron Abecassis

Balans is committed to supporting individuals in finding a healthier, more balanced life. Today we are featuring our very own team member, Ron Abecassis (aka Rondurance), who shares with us how he found the ideal work/life/ health balance despite his busy schedule as a strength and movement educator:

“I believe in family first, followed by health and work (I’m typing this on the train ride home, my second office).  The balancing can be tough to do, but with the right attitude, support, and proper time management, it is possible.  Having a previous military background has definitely helped me keep everything in order.  I keep a strict schedule of when to exercise, what to eat, and when to relax with family. I’m always the first one up in the household and get my emailing done and breakfast in. I have a 4 year old girl and a 2 year old boy.  It can be a lot of work!  My wife and I both work full time, so balancing who is taking the kids to daycare and picking up is a constant compromise.  Since I’m usually up so early, I prefer the motto – in early out early.

Being at Balans is quite unique.  I make time between clients to get my own workouts in.  I also make time to see other practitioners.  This has become an important part of my heathy lifestyle.  By giving time for myself to receive a massage, chiropractic treatment, do a yoga session, a facial, or float at the spa – I feel rejuvenated. It keeps me centered and helps me as a movement and strength practitioner to continue successfully doing my job.  It also all just feels so darn good!

Incorporating proper nutrition is another key element that I do throughout my day.  Making the right choices gives me energy since I’m up so early (did I mention that fact already?!?) It keeps me on my feet and I can move more efficiently.  Hydration, especially as we approach the summer months, is very important to me as well.  I enjoy throwing a lemon slice in my water for taste and other added benefits.

At the end of a long day, there’s nothing better than coming home to see my beautiful children.  It’s time to turn off the work mind, put the phone away, and play and enjoy their company.  I’m active, so the kids are too! They know what I do for a living, and physical activity is extremely important for them as well.  We like to go for a nice walk around the neighborhood, or go to the pool when it’s hot.  Once they’re asleep then I generally do a little work and prepare myself for the next day.  I try to get 7-8 hours of sleep every night, so I’m in bed fairly early.  Sleep; an overlooked component to a healthy lifestyle.  Without enough of it, I can’t think or perform to my fullest potential.

Practice what you preach!  If I’m telling all my clients to exercise, eat healthy, get sleep, and de-stress, I have to as well.  My clients know that the advice they get comes from my real life example. That is why I believe I’ve been successful at this balance of life and fitness so far and hopefully for many more years to come!”