Mind, Mood & Metabolism: A Conversation with Va Mounga, DNP, APRN
At The Lotus Center, we believe healing happens when care honors both the science of the body and the story of the person. The same holds true for reaching a healthy weight. Our newest medical provider, Va Mounga, DNP, APRN, brings that philosophy to life with her integrative approach to weight management and mental wellness.
“Many people struggle with motivation, mood, and self-esteem while trying to manage their weight,” Va shares. “It’s important to treat the whole person — mind, body, and spirit.”
Understanding the Emotional Roots of Weight Health
Va’s experience in primary care and weight management has shown her how closely mental and physical health are linked. Stress, anxiety, low mood, and trauma can all shape appetite, metabolism, and energy — sometimes in quiet but powerful ways.
“Weight care isn’t just about food or exercise,” she explains. “It’s about understanding the emotional and behavioral patterns behind eating habits, while also addressing biological factors like insulin resistance, hormone balance, and inflammation.”
Her approach blends medication management, nutrition education, and lifestyle coaching to create individualized plans that support mental and physical well-being.
“My goal is never just weight loss. It’s helping people feel balanced, confident, and well from the inside out.”
Education & Empowerment: The Role of GLP-1 Medications
When it comes to GLP-1 medications for weight loss, Va emphasizes partnership and education. “Education is so important,” she says. “As providers, we have a role in helping patients make informed decisions. We review their medical history, lifestyle, and emotional health to create a plan that truly fits.”
For Va, GLP-1 therapy is not a quick fix — it’s a supportive tool that works best when paired with mindful nutrition, realistic goals, and compassionate accountability. (Read more about GLP-1 therapy here.) She helps patients understand how these medications influence appetite and metabolism, and how to sustain changes through daily habits that feel doable, not depleting.
What the Research on GLP-1 Medications Shows
GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide and tirzepatide are proven to promote weight loss, reduce A1C, and improve cardiovascular health. Studies confirm that when compounded responsibly and monitored clinically, these formulations can deliver comparable benefits while expanding access to patients otherwise priced out of therapy. Our program’s combination of pharmaceutical precision and integrative care helps patients achieve sustainable results safely and affordably.
At The Lotus Center, our goal is to make advanced metabolic and weight-management therapies accessible while maintaining high standards of safety, monitoring, and holistic support. One of the ways we do that is by offering a supportive framework of whole person care including supplement support, mental health counseling and medications, and nutritional education.
Nutrition is a Foundation for Mental Health and Weight Health
“Food is medicine,” Va says simply. She often teaches clients about macronutrient balance — protein, carbohydrates, and fats — and how they affect mood regulation and metabolism. Her guidance includes practical education on intermittent fasting, dietary options, and the safe use of supplements to support whole-body health.
“Ultimately, I want people to develop a healthy relationship with food and empower themselves to make choices that support them in the long run.”
A Gentle Practice for Mind-Body Balance
We asked Va to share one small tip for finding balance this week, and she shared this simple practice for mindful eating:
- Pause and check if you are truly hungry.
- Name your emotion before you eat.
- Eat without distractions – start with one meal.
Finding Balance Together
At The Lotus Center, our team of APRNs, therapists, and integrative providers are here to support your journey toward mind, body, and spirit balance, whether that includes GLP-1 therapy, nutritional guidance, or compassionate mental health care.
Read more about our weight management program here.
Ready to explore what balance could look like for you?
🌸 Schedule a consultation with Va Mounga today!
📞 385-272-4292
Disclaimer: Educational content only; not medical advice. Consult your provider to determine what treatment is appropriate for you.
