Known in the legal world as the estate planning “guru,” Attorney Naz Barouti definitely knows how to balance work and health (she lost 25 pounds through hot Pilates). She’s passionate about empowering and protecting woman legally and specializes in helping guide women in getting their legal affairs in order in an easy-to-follow yet comprehensive manner. Let’s check out what makes this lawyer, author, entrepreneur, media commentator, and public speaker so successful.
Being an esteemed legal advocate, so far you’ve been able to lead a healthy life, after having lost 25 pounds. Share with us the your transformation journey?
As a lawyer and entrepreneur my focus in life became my work. Unfortunately, my health suffered as a result. I neglected my diet, sleep and rarely exercised. The only physical activity I had was walking to and from my car to my office. I was the heaviest I had ever been, and I was simply unhappy. I avoided friends, family and going to any social events. I felt trapped in my own body until one day I woke up and realized I couldn’t live like this. How could I help others if I wasn’t taking care of myself?
The role of exercise and nutrition in your success story? Meal pattern and workout routine.
I can’t emphasize enough the importance of exercise and nutrition in my transformation journey. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired and knew that in order to see a difference I had to make a lifestyle change. My primary doctor, Dr. Allen Green, was a Godsend. After extensive testing I learned that I was extremely deficient in certain vitamins. Today I take about 30 supplements, 15 in the morning and 15 in the evening. I immediately noticed a difference. I wasn’t as tired, not that hungry, and made better food choices. I increased my protein intake and cut carbs after 3pm. Once I had my energy back I started exercising 3-4 times a week doing Hot Pilates. Shannon Nadj, the owner of Hot Pilates in Sunset Plaza, transformed my body. Sometimes I can’t believe I have the body I have today. The studio is so inviting, and every instructor is extremely motivating and supportive. My favorite class is Hot Pilates Booty!
What would be your advice for professionals trying to achieve health goals?
My number one advice to professionals trying to achieve health goals is to not compare yourself to other people. Especially for women who often get trapped obsessing over “perfect” bodies on social media platforms like Instagram. Focus on getting healthy rather than looking a certain way. I didn’t start this transformation journey to fit into a certain dress, but rather I wanted to get healthy. I didn’t want to be confronted with serious health issues such as high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease.
Share with us the impact that fitness has had in your life? How has it changed for good?
Fitness is my therapy! I have such a stressful job and the only thing that keeps me sane is putting aside one hour for myself to do Hot Pilates. I not only get to zone out and forget about work stress, but I also feel like a powerful goddess after a session. I make better food decisions, I sleep better, and my confidence levels are through the roof. That confidence is priceless, because it has enabled me to become a leader.
Pilates is a well-known form of fitness, tell us something about hot Pilates?
Hot Pilates has made me so strong, mentally and physically! It has toned my body in a way I have never seen with any other exercise. It has improved my posture and stretched me out believe it or not. I even look taller!
Why women need to take care of their health, and its effect on your work routine?
As an Estate Planning attorney, I have noticed that women outlive men. These women have sacrificed so much, including their health, to take care of others. Once they enter retirement age they realize there is no one to take care of them and their health is often in shambles. Having a long-term care plan in place is so important, which is why exercise is the perfect first step.
What’s coming up next for you?
I just wrote a legal guide for women called “Love, Death, and Money: A Woman’s Guide to Legally Protecting Yourself” which will be released later this year. And I want my next book to be focused on women and health. How can we take care of our families and carry on successful careers while still ensuring we are in good health?
You can read more about her here.
