Written By Ruben Herrera, March 2024 Graduate of Coya Executive Cohort
LeBron James and Tom Brady, among others, stand as towering figures in the world of sports. They are renowned not only for their remarkable careers but also for their unwavering dedication to maintaining peak physical condition. They invest heavily in their health, understanding its pivotal role in their on-field success.
I believe high-level executives are beginning to recognize this trend. They are elevating their focus on personal health too. This hypothesis led me to embark on a journey of self-discovery and improvement. Recently, I became part of a Executive Cohort through the Coya App.
As a former Division I student-athlete, I’ve been immersed in the principles of holistic health since the age of 10, balancing the demands of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being both on and off the field.
Today, as an executive, I’m entrusted with the responsibilities of creativity, strategy, and assertiveness. In navigating the complexities of my professional sphere, I’m tasked with making crucial decisions and executing under intense pressure. The collaborative endeavors I spearhead exert influence in the companies I have the privilege to serve.
Yet, amidst the demands of my professional life, I cherish the importance of maintaining connections with friends and family, recognizing the richness of life beyond the confines of work. Striving to be fully present in all aspects of my life is paramount to me.
I’m not trying to compare my journey with individuals like LeBron James and Tom Brady. Rather, I recognize that I can find inspiration in their mindset. I aspire to emulate their strategic approach, albeit on a smaller scale.
Background on My Journey
Over the years, I’ve invested in my health, staying abreast of industry trends and integrating habits like morning and evening routines, meditation, reading, and regular exercise into my daily life. However, I felt something was missing—a comprehensive understanding of how my lifestyle choices affected my health. That’s when I turned to data-driven solutions like the Oura Ring to gain deeper insights into my sleep patterns and overall well-being.
My skepticism turned to enthusiasm upon joining the Coya cohort. The team’s clear communication and seamless onboarding process set the stage for an immersive experience focused on optimizing health. Through cohort huddles, coaching sessions, and personalized support, I delved into eight controllables of health—movement, self-care, sleep, nutrition, environment, hydration, mindset, and immune function.
The Coya Executive Program
Essentially, the experience was driven by three key elements: education, coaching, and community involvement. Bi-weekly sessions were dedicated to deepening our understanding of each pillar. These sessions were a blend of insightful presentations and interactive AMA sessions.
Through both one-on-one and group coaching sessions, I had the opportunity to tailor the program to my specific needs and goals. Additionally, regular communication via the app ensured that I stayed accountable and on track with my health journey. The app provided valuable resources, suggested new habits, and offered insightful feedback on how my HRV (heart rate variability) responded to various lifestyle factors.
The level of focus and attention I dedicated to my health during this program surpassed anything I had experienced in years. I acknowledge AI advancements in health management, yet I firmly believe it will always complement human interaction rather than replace it. The support and guidance provided by the Coya team were invaluable; their impact on my well-being is indescribable. It’s like champions expressing gratitude to their teams during trophy ceremonies—recognizing the support behind their success. In this blog post, I’m extending my appreciation for the transformative role the team has played in my health journey.
Two Specific Stories
Let me share two stories that summarize the past few months for me. It’s been a crazy time in my professional life, juggling projects where we’re raising funds, building teams from scratch, and pushing products forward. It’s a rollercoaster of excitement and stress, you know?
But amidst all this chaos, I found something that helped me stay strong: sticking to a few simple habits. Just doing things like rolling out my muscles before bed, making sure I eat a big salad every day, avoiding late-night snacks, and giving myself an hour away from screens before hitting the hay. It sounds basic, but these little changes made a big difference.
And you know what? It wasn’t just about me doing it alone. Having the support of my team and community behind me was huge. It’s stunning how much we can achieve when we all rally together.
Now, onto another remarkable story from my journey. During the eight weeks, I faced a setback when illness struck. My HRV plummeted for three consecutive days, prompting the algorithm to recommend an “immune function protocol.” The truth was, I didn’t have one in place. But with Nick’s guidance, we quickly devised a plan. I acquired the appropriate supplements, prioritized rest and recovery, and adhered to a recommended nutritional program. Miraculously, within three days, I bounced back stronger than before. It was a stark reminder of the importance of proactive health management. In the past, I might not have noticed the decline, let alone taken action, inevitably taxing my health unnecessarily.
What’s Next…
Looking ahead, I am resolute in my commitment to nurturing my well-being. I vow to seize control of my lifespan and enhance my healthspan, cherishing every moment of this beautiful life. I am determined to build upon the solid foundations laid by the Coya team, leveraging their guidance to reach new heights.
Most importantly, I am eager to continue engaging with our incredible community. Their support and camaraderie have been invaluable on this journey, reminding me that we are stronger together.
So, as I bring this post to a close, I’m reminded of a phrase I’ve heard often: “It’s your life, own it!” To everyone who has played a part in helping me own mine, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your unwavering support, and looking forward to meeting all new people who join the Coya cohorts!
