Paula Faces – Chicago Magazine

APaula Faseas, who was an animal lover from an early age, dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Instead, she studied business administration, honing the skills that helped her found PAWS Chicago 25 years ago. Through its no-kill adoption shelters and sliding scale spay/neuter clinics, the nonprofit is leading a movement that has reduced Chicago’s euthanasia rate by 91 percent since 1997.

The executive chairman of PAWS lives on the Gold Coast with her 4-year-old terrier, Mr B. It’s been a tough year for Faces, who lost her mother, husband and 19-year-old dog. all within six months. “What really helps me get through this period,” she says, “is fitness and wellness and being busy and grateful rather than focusing on the sad moments.”

How do you start your day?

“I’ve always been a morning person. I wake up between 4 and 5 in the morning, I need some quiet time. I do intermittent fasting four to five days a week so I only get calories in a six hour period. It works great for my blood sugar. I’m a big foodie and I used to wake up with the thought of coconut cream pie, but now I don’t get that craving anymore. So I get up, drink black coffee and take Mr B for a walk.’

What is your exercise routine?

“I do weight training and stretching at home with my trainer and do three to five miles on my elliptical. I also have an inversion table that stretches the back and body. I stay on it for three to five minutes every day. This strengthens the spine and allows fluid to penetrate the discs. I have always exercised, but have increased it since I turned 60. I feel fitter and more agile than ever. I could never do splits in high school, but now I can!”

How do pets fit into your health philosophy?

“One amazing thing about dogs and cats is that they keep you in the present. When you play with animals, you are in the moment, laugh with them. I have noticed that this year, especially during a sad period of my life, it is much better to be in the present than to think about the past or worry about the future.’