Mind Over Body
"The Key To Lasting Weight Loss & Happiness Is All In Your Head!"

From the inspirational fitness coach who designed the world-renowned fitness program at Miraval Life In Balance, comes a book that will change the way you think about fitness -- and about yourself -- forever!
Nordine is an International Celebrity Fitness Coach who works with clients from around the world. He's come a long way -- from being born in the back of a truck in the Sahara desert and contracting Rickets to becoming an acclaimed fitness expert worldwide.
His unique philosophy, which is based on his personal experience as well as the knowledge he has gathered during his 25 years working in the field, addresses the true reasons why people are constantly failing to reach their health and fitness goals.
In Mind Over Body Nordine provides the same information and encouragement that has helped his clients to release stress, increase energy, lose fat, and develop muscle tone quickly, effectively... and forever!
Editorial Reviews
From Publishers Weekly
Born in Algeria to illiterate Bedouin parents, Zouareg entered the world in the back of a French army truck, weighing little more than two pounds. At age 19 and 108 pounds, he found what he calls an "anchor"—his core desire—and went on to become, simultaneously, Mr. France, Mr. Europe, Mr. World and Mr. Universe. Here, he shares strategies he uses with clients at Miraval spa in Tucson, Ariz., where he is a fitness coach. Zouareg's program contains few "shoulds" and "should nots," but it does require unflagging commitment to a core desire. To help readers identify this desire, he devotes much of the book to developing self-awareness and mental strength for surmounting inevitable obstacles and sustaining change. Central to Zouareg's plan are practices he learned while working with Dharma Singh Khalsa (Brain Longevity): meditation, visualization and affirmation. With them, Zouareg promises, readers can discover their core desire, tap into the power of intention and find the energy needed to achieve goals in every area of their lives. Advice and tips on food selection, meal frequency, portion size and exercise routines are peppered with good news: no hunger or daily weigh-ins, sanctioned "cheat days" and shorter workouts. Zouareg is an effective coach, and readers will likely find themselves returning to his words when they need support and encouragement. (June)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Nordine Zouareg has helped thousands of clients get healthier, be happier, and lose weight for good. And in the process, he's discovered something astounding: the mental work his clients do before they start their diet and exercise plan is actually just as (if not more) important than the plan itself.
In Mind Over Body, Nordine describes how everyone can find this mental motivation -- what he calls our "core desire" -- and then master the tools (visualization, meditation, affirmation) to keep on track with weight-loss goals. After readers develop this foundation, they move on to the inspiring nutrition and exercise plan--a simple, effective program developed to help shed weight and keep it off forever. You'll learn:
- The fool-proof method for preparing your mind -- and your body -- before you diet—
- Thirty delicious foods that are the staples of the Mind Over Body eating plan
- When to cheat -- without blowing your diet
- How to get an effective workout in just 24 minutes a day
- The 10 commandments of mindful strength training
As the fitness coach at Miraval Life in Balance spa, Nordine has worked with celebrities, business leaders, discerning travelers, and soccer moms all across North America. Rated the #1 spa by Conde Nast Traveler, the #1 destination spa by Travel and Leisure, and the top spa in American by Zagat, Miraval has become the premier destination for bringing people’s lives into balance and teaching them how to live mindfully. Now, in Mind Over Body, Nordine teaches the same program that has proven wildly successful for his clients (and himself!) for the past twenty years. Learn how to determine your true fitness goals...and get the tools you need to finally make it come true!
What People Are Saying About The Book Mind Over Body
“ In Mind Over Body Nordine shares the holy grail of weight loss. What
the mind speaks, the body hears. Read this book, follow Nordine's simple
plan and let the power of your mind help you create the body you want. ”
Jon Gordon
Author of The Energy Bus: 10 Rules for the Ride of your Life
“ In life, balance is truly the holy grail. In Mind Over Body Nordine tangibly outlines fitness strategies for uniting and balancing mind, body and spirit. This is far more than just a fitness book. ”
Polly Anthony
Universal Music Group
“ In one book, Mind Over Body, Nordine inspires you, energizes your mind and helps you reshape your body. Your perception about fitness will never be the same after you are done with this book. ”
John Assaraf
Best-selling Author of The Street Kid’s Guide to Having it All
“ Nordine is a most incredible man. As an orthopedic surgeon, I fully endorse Nordine’s philosophy and techniques of Mind Over Body. In fact, I practice them myself. ”
Dr. Ty Endean
Orthopedic Surgeon, USA Rugby, Oakland Raiders, Arizona Heat
“ With his book Mind Over Body, Nordine has initiated a paradigm shift in the world of health and fitness- by providing the reader with a holistic and integrated approach to feeling and looking great. This book is a gift to all of us determined to truly make a change in our lives. ”
Jeff Lamp
LA Lakers Championship Team 1988, NBA Career Consultant
“ Although Nordine trains with the mental discipline necessary to compete for Mr. Universe and win, he poetically trains others at their level of physical fitness, age and abilities. Providing expert coaching that engages the mind, body and spirit and encourages a lifetime of health and wellness. In his book Mind Over Body Nordine outlines powerful steps to get and stay in shape for life. ”
Chef Cary E. Neff
Author of Conscious Cuisine
“ Nordine’s measure of wellness is neither in inches nor pounds. This is from someone who competed fiercely and victoriously in the brutal and competitive world of bodybuilders. Yet what he does with his enthusiasm, kindness and experience is to give us an understanding of the value and intrinsic relationship of mind and body wellness. ”
Teresa Heinz Kerry
Heinz Corporations
“ Nordine’s approach to ‘mindful fitness’ provides Miraval guests with a valuable new fitness experience. His enthusiasm, passion, and experience will benefit all who read Mind Over Body. ”
William O’Donnell
Miraval Founder & Partner
“ Nordine's program is by far one of the most practical programs I have ever engaged in. As a lifelong athlete, I am familiar with rigorous training regimes. However, working with Nordine--which is really more like play--has enabled me to self reflect on not only the physical approach to wellness, but also the mental and spiritual aspects of my life. I consider Nordine a spiritual leader of life; not just a master in the physical realm. Nordine's presence is beyond reproach, and I am truly inspired by his aura. ”
Amber De Luca
American Gladiator
“ This book’s title could also be ‘Saving Your Own Life!’ ”
Paul Rizzuto
Worldwide Partner, Global Consulting Firm
“ Nordine was the catalyst that I needed to get over a stagnant workout routine. He taught me techniques and strategies to get 'over the hump'. Because of him I've lost 10% body fat and am more fit than ever at age 56. I can't thank him enough. ”
Michael Dillard
Founder & CEO, Century Fitness, Century Martial Art Supply
“ When I met Nordine, I instinctively knew he was the trainer for me. He had a laser-like ability to quickly assess both my body and my soul. I was fascinated by our initial interview. Nordine gets it! Having the body and health we desire is not separate from who we are. He recognizes that our bodies are a reflection of our psychological and spiritual selves. In his book Mind Over Body, Nordine uses his life experience and approaches training with passion, humor, common sense and deep caring. As a clinical psychologist, I fully agree with Nordine. A healthier physical self can only be realized by the integration of body, psyche and soul. ”
Carole D. Berk
Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist, Chicago, IL
“ Mind Over Body is the first fitness book that integrates a whole philosophy for living instead of focusing only on looks. Most fitness books apply a short term bandaid approach to a better body. Nordine focuses on total health, including a healthy mind. The end result is an elevated state of happiness, confidence, spirituality, connection, energy, and, yes, the healthiest body you ever had! ”
Keith Arnold
Executive Director, Sierra Tucson
“ In Mind Over Body Nordine has captured and distilled the latest groundbreaking wisdom and life skills necessary in today's world to reach new levels of success and happiness through health & fitness. Mind Over Body really works! ”
Richard Stacey
President & CEO, Northern Response (International) Ltd
“ Nordine Zouareg is an inspiration -- his story, his energy, his imagination.
Want to jump start your health and fitness? Start with Nordine! ”
Tony Schwartz
President, The Energy Project; Author of The Power of Full Engagement
“ When I first started working with Nordine, he was always asking me, “Jennifer, why do you let your body dictate how your mind feels? Why do you do that?” I didn't know why. I guess I didn't know any different. With Nordine’s help I soon realized, the toughest obstacles that exist are the one’s I create in my own mind. By releasing myself from these “I could never do that” thoughts, I've learned that I am strong! And my body is capable of supporting me in whatever adventure I choose to experience. With the concept of his book Mind Over Body, Nordine now brings to you the teaching I've experienced and still am experiencing now. ”
Jennifer Reichle
Global Consulting Firm
“ If you've had challenges changing your eating habits, losing weight, or getting into top physical condition, then you owe it to yourself to learn from Nordine. The thing that makes Nordine special, in my opinion, is that he really understands not only the "physical side" of getting into shape, but also the science and the psychology. He'll actually help you FEEL like you want to do the things you need to do in order to get into the best shape of your life - then he'll teach you the specific action steps in order to DO it. His book Mind Over Body, is a must read. ”
“ I've been involved with some of the top fitness authors, instructors, gurus, nutritionists and scientists in the world. I've been working out almost daily for the last 20 years of my life. I thought I knew everything I needed to know about exercise and nutrition and rest and meditation until I met Nordine. He's worked with some of the top people in the world; he's an absolutely fabulous guy! He walks the walk and talks the talk, and I think any person of any age can get tremendous value out of reading his book Mind Over Body. ”
Joe Polish
President, Piranha Marketing
Online Reviews
Diet, and so much more….
By Armchairinterview.com A self-help mind body spirit weight loss and fitness book by former Mr. France and Mr. Universe, Nordine Zouareg, Mind Over Body looks at the interconnection between what we believe and how we become. Zouareg is the fitness coach at the exclusive Miraval Life in Balance spa and resort in Arizona.
Zouareg describes how everyone can learn and implement his method for mental motivation--what he calls our `core desire'--and then learn how to master the tools (visualization, meditation, affirmation) to keep on track with weight-loss goals. After readers understand and practice these tools, they learn some of the basics about nutrition and the Miraval way of healthy living. The book comes with an exercise plan developed by the author to shed unwanted pounds. According to Mr. Zouareg, consistent use of the mind body spirit method will keep the additional weight off forever.
But to truly test any self-help weight loss book, I knew that I had to bring it into my own life. I started with the creative visualization, then the meditation, and finally the affirmations. I admit that I felt more than a little silly saying the affirmations. Being a writer, I found I did best by saying them, and then writing them down in a journal.
I then read about the basics of nutrition and the 40/40/20×5 fat loss plan, and tried some of the sample recipes that were actually quite tasty. The vegetable omelet was a big hit in my household.
On to the exercise....I'm more of a couch potato, but oddly enough I enjoyed the stretching exercises, even found them relaxing. The more strenuous exercises...well, I'm still working on those. I see this more as a slow progression, one that will hopefully develop into a good habit. So, how much weight have I lost? 4.5 pounds in ten days. Not bad for a former junk food eating couch potato.
Other links and resources are in the index.
I highly recommend this book if you are truly ready to change your life and willing to try a more holistic approach to weight loss and healthy living.
Armchair Interviews says: More than just a diet book, this combines the mind, body and spirit for weight-loss success.
Mind Over Body for fitness and for life….
By Nirvair Khalsa., Arizona- Nordine Zouareg is a former Mr. Universe who has been able to translate his outstanding accomplishments into a plan that has helped thousands of athletes and non-athletes achieve their fitness goals. This book offers a simple and doable fitness plan for real people with real lives.
The diet suggestions are easy to prepare and use everyday ingredients. Helpful nutrition information is included so that we can all understand how to make the best food choices and become empowered to create meals that will support our fitness and health. On this diet you are allowed to eat regular meals and snacks and even to cheat! The exercise plan is a balanced program that takes just 24 minutes a day 5 days a week and includes cardio and strength training. The program is realistic for busy people.
As great as the diet and exercise plans are, the real strength of the program is in the mind. Nordine skillfully shows how it takes more than just a good plan to be successful. Becoming aware of our undermining thought patterns is the first step to changing them. Nordine demonstrates how to increase awareness, how to get out of negative thinking that nstruc on what we don’t want and turn instead to our core desires to develop positive motivation to get what we do want. Drawing on the wisdom of positive thinking and spiritual awareness, Nordine describes a mental fitness plan for success in attaining a desired weight, a healthy body or success in any area of life.
If you are really ready to change….
By Michael Loy, Minnesota -If you are tired of all the gimmicks that promise you the body you want PLEASE read this book because it is a fantastic tool to take along with you on your journey. We all have had our struggles with our body weight, but this book helps you develop your core desire to change and if you want it, Nordine shows you just how to cultivate the process to becoming your core desire. This simple but successful approach to weight loss answers so many questions that we all have. As an exercise physiologist I am constantly bombarded by questions pertaining to the topics covered in Nordine’s book and what Nordine has to say runs parallel to the advice that these people need. It is everything that I always try to say. Nordine helps you to identify your goals, believe in yourself, and shows you the way. While the first part of this book helps to restructure your thinking patterns about weight loss, the second half of the book gives you no nonsense diet and exercise instruction. I have referred this book to a number of different people really working hard to find lasting weight loss, but were missing the mental training to do so. The few hours your spend reading this book will change your life in so many ways. There are so many people out there that offer weight loss advice, but it is time that people start listening to what Nordine is saying. He is a man who has lived the process of changing his life/physique and has helped hundreds of people realize their dream and core desire of lasting weightloss. His book and life story are amazing, inspirational, and motivational. Exactly what you need if you are looking to really lose weight.
Outstanding book….
By Thorataz, AZ –I have personally known Mr Zouareg well over a few years. He is always upbeat and motivating wants to make a connection. This book is exactly as it says Mind Over Body. It’s not enough to just to the gym or go on a diet, it’s a lifestyle change and that is what Mr. Zouareg what you to understand. It’s a book that should be read more than one time just when you need that extra push. Highly recommended!
A MUST HAVE!
By Ty Endean “Sports Doc” Tucson, AZ – Having read many books over the years on self help, diet, nutrition, and exercise, I think this is one book that should be in your library. It is a simple book with simple recommendations that will result it huge gains. Having practiced the suggestions I have seen a whole transformation in my mind and my body. As a actively fit orthopedic surgeon, I see this book as a must read for anyone trying to improve themselves. Having met Nordine personally, I see that he practices what he preaches. In addition to the book Nordine is one author who responds to questions and suggestions.
A MUST HAVE BOOK!
This book saved my life….
By John E. Oren, Houston, TX- Nordine Zoureg has written a life saving book. It reaches far beneath the conscious level of thought and explores the underlying belief systems that dominate and define our lives. Simple adjustments to those beliefs and understanding ones true "core desire" will create permanent positive change. Pysical fitness is really a by-product that is received from practicing Nordine's mind over body philosophy. Because I am satisfied with myself, I am experiencing a marked improvement in the quality of relationships with family, friends and co-workers. That was unexpected, but has by far been the most rewarding.
Most rewarding reading….
By William Gower, Seattle, WA -MIND OVER BODY far exceeded my expectations. In this book, Nordine has finally nailed the truth about weight and happiness. All you ever needed to be slim, happy and healthy is in this fabulous book. I recommend it to everyone who is tired of the same old approaches to fitness, health and life in general.
MIND OVER BODY'S approach is easy, fast and amazingly effective.
Must have inspiring and pratical book….
By Jenni Lipa, Spa Guru, New York, NY -Nordine Zouareg captures the essence of the Body-Mind connection with his easy to read and follow Mind Over Body book. It becomes a way of life. It is my bible that is next to my bed for some late night reading. I have personally cut down on my exercise and have lost more weight and toned my body. It is easy to realize that life is not a struggle. Mindful meditation and body work can produce results. There are no more excuses not to be healthy. It is the perfect gift for friends and family of all ages.
Jenni Lipa, Spa Trek Travel, New York City.
Want To Lose Weight, Feel Great and Reclaim Your Life? Look No More….
By Happy Mom Lynn- This book is long overdue. No more life spent at the gym, no more starvation and no more gimmick! Nordine Zouareg has poured his heart and soul by giving all of us the key to unlocking the door to perfect health and fitness. I gave it 5 stars because it was the max, I could give it six stars without hesitation. Mind Over Body starts from where everyone else has failed: the mind; with four easy steps to follow, then the nutritional plan packed with gourmet foods and the super fast and easy exercise plan that you could do anywhere and that lasts less than 30 minutes. Believe me, this book is for more than what I expected it to be.
Right On The Money!
By John Assaraf, One Coach, San Diego -This book comes from years of watching and teaching people how to finally get in great physical and mental health. I met Nordine a few years ago when he was head of fitness at Miraval and my wife and I were there for a week of spa treatments. He had people from all over the world flock to him like the pied piper. What he taught there and what is in this book is pure genius anyone can apply.My wife and I love it.
Finally a useful fitness book….
By G. Khalsa, Arizona- Nordine Zouareg has written a very practical and useful book. It is not only about fitness, diet, exercise but it shows me how I can improve on the areas of my life that I feel need some working on with insight and wisdom. His personal story is fascinating and deserves more attention. I have purchased about six copies and given them to family and friends.
Great book for elevating all aspects of one’s life….
By Joe Conca (Change Being), Phoenix, AZ- "Mind Over Body" by Nordine Zouareg is a great book!! It is well organized and easy to read and understand yet profound in its implication. Mr. Zouareg's challenges began the moment he was prematurely born to illiterate Bedouin parents in an army truck in the Sahara Desert. His immediate disadvantages in life were daunting, yet today he has the honor of being a two-time Mr. Universe title holder, celebrity fitness coach, and author.
I asked myself what many will probably ask, and that is, HOW? Well, "Mind Over Body" describes in detail what Mr. Zouareg implemented in order to achieve all that he desired.
The key to being, having, and doing all that you desire starts with training the mind via positive self talk, visualization, and affirmation. Only when the mind is prepared can one truly manifest their core desire(s). After reading this fabulous book, I realized that it was not only about retraining the subconscious mind in order to become fitness, but becoming all that you truly desire to be.
Applying the steps and principals in "Mind Over Body" has changed the way I attack goals in my life. Most of us, if not all of us, have goals and aspirations that constantly resurface. These goals may or may not be true core desires and hence the "reburial" of these said goals. "Mind Over Body" explains how one should feel if these goals and aspirations are true core desires or just fleeting interests and gives you the steps and tools needed to manifest your desire. I will never feel or be the same again.
"Mind Over Body" is fantastically empowering, I strongly suggest the purchase of this book to all.
Truly Mind Over Body….
By P.V Pilates Girl, Scottsdale, AZ - I loved this book! Nordine's story of his childhood was an inspiration to anyone who wasn't born with all the advantages life has to offer. It's hard to make excuses about not being able to do this when you look a how far Nordine has come.
This is the first time I truly understood the negative effect of the things I tell myself. I am reconditioning my mental tapes and following the principles in Nordine's book and I feel great. I know that the things I am able to accomplish are all possible if I set my mind to it and reinforce myself with positive feedback.
Thank you Nordine for taking the time to write this book so that those of us unable to make it to Mirival can still benefit from you.
"Mind Over Body..." should be read by everyone looking to elevate all aspects of their health and fitness….
By Jennifer Reichle, Los Angeles, CA -"Mind Over Body..." should be read by everyone looking to elevate all aspects of their health and fitness. Reading this book feels like I'm in a one-on-one coaching session at Miraval with Nordine Zouareg, Mr. Universe.
In Part One, Nordine provides several thought exercises and techniques that guide you to identify your core desire(s), to tap into your internal power of intention through visualization and positive affirmations, to create an action plan that you will really stick with and to stay motivated. I found his "Voluntary Agreement With Myself" to be a very powerful exercise. It is a commitment that Nordine asks us to make to ourselves...for ourselves.
Part Two contains guidance on how to "eat well and exercise right without giving up your life". The recipes were easy to make and very tasty. His workout plans contain detailed exercise descriptions and photos which I found very helpful in highlighting proper form and technique.
Nordine's holistic approach to fitness is unlike any other. It's incredibly empowering. I feel stronger, smarter, healthier and happier than ever before.
