Phil Morris of Whangarei is a happy participant in the Green Prescription (GRx) programme. Phil was referred by his GP in August, with concerns about weight gain and wanting some nutrition advice.

A meeting with GRx support person Kerrin Taylor was the springboard for Phil to get started with some new activity and changes to his eating habits. Phil now attends a GRx Light Circuit exercise class every week, which he describes as “absolutely perfect.” He says the level and duration of the class is “just right and very therapeutic.”  He also does the easy-to-follow exercises at home, and increases them as he is able.

Phil has never been a couch potato and has always enjoyed activities such as walking, swimming and bowls. He continues with these, and in addition to the class, he has recently acquired an exercise bike, using it while watching sport on TV.

Diet was a big hurdle for Phil, who particularly enjoys cakes and pastries. He says one of his biggest challenges has been resisting the temptation of fast foods, especially ‘coffee and cake’ deals. He still enjoys his coffee, however he now takes his own healthy snack along.

Along with the cakes and pastries, Phil has reduced sugar and processed foods overall and is generally eating less food. He always carries snacks with him, and this helps him avoid making less healthy choices. He is enjoying more vegetables and says that he no longer feels bloated, is more comfortable in his clothes and has more energy.

Phil lists more benefits of his new lifestyle like recovering much more quickly from the flu; improved cholesterol levels; improved sleep; less stress; and eight kilograms less of weight loss so far. He is very happy and says his doctor is impressed.

“The Green Prescription is free, and great support” says Phil, adding that he finds the group class to be “inspirational, pleasant and social.” In addition to GRx, Phil appreciates the support from his doctor Eleanor Regeling, and his wife, who is health conscious and buys good food.

Phil’s tip for someone considering support to make lifestyle change is “you need someone to motivate and inspire you. You need to want to be helped, communicate issues and be open.” He adds, “it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be.”

If you or anyone you know would benefit from a Green Prescription and would like to know more, please contact the Green Prescription Team at Sport Northland on 0800 ACTIVE (0800 22 8483).