By Cynthia Knox
As women, we often find ourselves juggling numerous responsibilities—from professional development to personal self-care. It’s easy to lose track of our well-being in the process. That’s why Dr. Carol Ann Malizia’s “ABC and G’s Strategy” is so powerful. This holistic approach helps us reframe how we see ourselves, our health, and our personal empowerment.
I’ve been inspired by this framework, not only because it addresses women’s unique health concerns but also because it encourages us to see health as part of our broader journey in life. Let’s explore how the “ABC and G’s Strategy” can empower us to create harmony and balance, from our physical health to our emotional and mental well-being
The ABCs of Well-Being
The ABC concept represents different facets of who we need to BE to achieve success and happiness in our lives.
A is for Awareness:
Dr. Malizia starts with the idea of self-awareness, asking us to assess where we are on the “Wheel of Health.” Awareness is about understanding our current state—physically, mentally, and emotionally. From the foods we eat to the thoughts we entertain, awareness is the first step toward making lasting changes in our lives.
B is for Being:
Who do you need to BE to live the life you envision? This part of the strategy encourages us to reflect on the small but impactful changes we can make to be more disciplined, committed, and consistent. A simple 5% improvement in these areas can lead to significant results over time. By practicing daily affirmations and staying true to our personal promises, we create an internal shift that helps us align with our best selves.
C is for Commitment:
Commitment is about holding ourselves accountable for the changes we want to see in our lives. Whether through a health coach, a chiropractor, or a trusted friend, having accountability partners helps us stay on track. We can’t expect results if we’re constantly distracted. Commitment requires determination and focus, ensuring that we remain aligned with our goals.
The G’s: Girl, Gal, and Guru
Dr. Malizia introduces three archetypes that help us understand how we interact with food and health: the Girl, the Gal, and the Guru.
The Girl:
The Girl represents spontaneity and emotional eating—grabbing that chocolate or ice cream out of sheer impulse. We’ve all been there! This stage is all about giving in to immediate gratification without thinking about the long-term consequences. It’s a reminder that food is often linked to our emotions, and we need to find healthier ways to cope with stress or feelings of discomfort.
The Gal:
Next comes the Gal, who has learned that food is fuel. She’s the woman with a million balls in the air, juggling responsibilities but often putting others’ needs before her own. For the Gal, food needs to be easy, balanced, and comforting. This stage is about finding the balance between convenience and nourishment.
The Guru:
Finally, the Guru is the highest level of empowerment in this framework. She makes choices based on wisdom and mindfulness, understanding that food can be vibrant and life-giving. The Guru chooses foods that are enzymatically dense, healing the body from the cellular level. This is where true transformation happens, as we move beyond basic nutrition to foods that stimulate longevity and vitality.
Building Your Healthy Plate
A large part of the ABC and G’s Strategy involves what we put on our plates. Dr. Malizia advocates for whole, unprocessed foods that help reduce our toxic load and boost energy. She advises avoiding wheat, dairy, processed sugars, and hydrogenated oils, while embracing nutrient-dense options like organic meats, vegetables, healthy fats, and fresh fruits.
By choosing foods that nourish us on all levels—physically, emotionally, and mentally—we set the foundation for a more balanced and empowered life.
The Ultimate Goal: Living with Legacy
The ABC and G’s Strategy is more than just a health guide. It’s a pathway to living a life filled with love, learning, and leaving a legacy. As women, we have the power to change not only our own lives but also to influence the lives of those around us. By following this strategy, we align with our purpose, increase our vitality, and ultimately, we create a legacy of wellness for ourselves and others.
Let’s embark on this journey together and commit to living with intention, balance, and health in every facet of our lives.
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I hope this strategy resonates with you as much as it has with me. Let’s take small steps toward a more empowered and vibrant future—starting today.
~ Cynthia Knox
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This blog is inspired by the ABC and G’s Strategy for Women, developed by Dr. Carol Ann Malizia, whose work helps women improve their health, well-being, and professional lives.