What's in a name?

 

You might be wondering, “What’s with the name - roots2fruits?” I’m glad you asked!  There is a huge concept packed into those two little words (and the number 2).  It has to do with how I practice as a clinician and why I take such time to explore you and your past.  But it also has to do with the practical side of things, how we go from goal setting to action to success.  

Imagine the parts of a tree. It has roots, trunk, branches, leaves and fruit. The tree actually symbolizes you. All the parts of the “tree” are components of what drive you and your wellness journey and how you feed your family and yourself. Let’s start at the beginning….

The Roots

The roots are your foundation. They are what anchor you to life and your belief system. I see many things being “roots” and we take a lot of time to explore them because they have an impact on your vision for you and your family, your goals, and how we meet them. Roots can include:

  • Past experiences

  • Genetics

  • Family

  • Religion

  • Traditions

  • Beliefs and Attitudes

  • Support System

The Trunk

As we build up from what’s below the surface, we start to build a strong base - the trunk! This is where our work really begins.  The trunk is the supportive centerpiece of the tree.  I consider it to be our “knowledge and skills” powerhouse. In building this supportive trunk, we may discuss many things including, but not limited to:

  • General and more advance nutrition guidelines

  • Cooking skills

  • Meal and snack planning skills

  • Normal eating patterns

  • Food regulation

  • Division of responsibility in feeding

  • Emotional eating

  • Control and trust

  • Developmental stages

  • The what, why and how of feeding and eating

The Branches

Stemming off from the trunk are many branches. These, in my mind, are opportunities to practice.  At each of our sessions there will likely be an overarching theme of our discussion. Branching off of that theme, we will develop very short, specific goals (or practice opportunities) for you to try and report back on at the next session. This is how progress is made - by investigation, experimentation, and then assessing and modifying a plan, if needed. On a tree some branches break or snap in rough weather, some will need pruning or guiding, but some bring forth the most delicious fruit. And this will be true for you as well.

The Fruit

Simply put, its the sweetness and payoff of the practice you put in. Enjoy!



 
Elizabeth Elam