What Is Cortisol Face? The Truth About Stress and Facial Puffiness

TikTok has a new obsession: Cortisol Face, a trending term that claims everyday stress can visibly change your face. According to social media, increased cortisol levels cause inflammation, bloating, and even facial changes like puffiness or weight gain around the cheeks and jaw. It sounds dramatic, and while there’s a nugget of truth here, the science is much more nuanced.  Let’s break it down. First: What Is Cortisol? Cortisol is your body’s main stress hormone. It often gets a bad rap, but it’s actually essential for your health and survival. Yes, cortisol is not all bad. Cortisol helps: In the right amount and at the right time, cortisol helps your body run smoothly. But when it’s chronically high or out of sync, it can cause problems. Is Cortisol Face a Real Thing? Kind of. There is a medical condition called Cushing Syndrome, which happens when the body produces too much cortisol which is usually due to long-term steroid use or a medical issue. It can cause significant fat redistribution and swelling in the face. But here’s the key: Cushing Syndrome is rare and not caused by your everyday work stress or a bad night of sleep. So, can “regular” day to day stress change your face? Not exactly. Even chronic stress won’t elevate cortisol levels enough to cause a dramatic change in facial appearance for most people. However, cortisol can cause temporary water retention, puffiness, and fatigue when your levels are out of balance, especially if you’re not sleeping, eating well, or managing stress. So, What Does Cortisol Do to the Body? Cortisol is your body’s main stress hormone, part of your built-in fight-or-flight system. It’s meant to help you escape a real threat, like running from a bear. But today, our bodies release it for modern “threats” too—a 2 a.m. phone call, a missed deadline, or a surprise bill. To prep you for action, cortisol: During acute stress (think: quick and intense), this response is helpful. You run from the bear. You survive. You recover. During chronic stress (think: daily deadlines, poor sleep, doomscrolling), you’re not burning through that energy, but your body still acts like you are. Appetite goes up, insulin sensitivity goes down, and fat storage shifts to the belly. This can lead to what many refer to as the “stress belly.” Can Cortisol Affect Weight and Appearance? Yes, indirectly. Chronically elevated cortisol levels can: But again, the real issue isn’t cortisol itself. It’s about imbalance; too much, for too long, at the wrong times. What Does a Cortisol-Friendly Lifestyle Look Like? Balancing cortisol isn’t about eliminating it. It’s about helping your body maintain a healthy cortisol curve: high in the morning, lower by bedtime. Here’s how to support that rhythm: 1. Eat for Blood Sugar Balance A balanced plate helps prevent the blood sugar rollercoaster that spikes cortisol. Think whole, nutrient-dense meals: Also: don’t under-eat. Skipping meals or eating too little stresses your body out. 2. Stay Hydrated Even mild dehydration can raise cortisol. Sip throughout the day, especially in the morning and before meals. 3. Get Moving (but Not Too Much) Exercise is great for lowering cortisol when done right. Overtraining can backfire, so mix in low-impact movement like walking, yoga, or strength training. 4. Sleep Like It’s Your Job Aim for 7–9 hours. Lack of sleep not only increases cortisol but can lead to puffiness and poor skin quality. 5. Manage Stress Proactively Breathwork, journaling, setting boundaries, laughter, and connection can all help lower stress. Even a short walk outside can help bring cortisol levels down. The Bottom Line: Cortisol Face? Not Really. While cortisol can influence your weight and appearance over time, your face isn’t going to suddenly change shape from everyday stress. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore your cortisol. A balanced lifestyle with nutrient-dense food, hydration, sleep, stress management, and movement can help keep cortisol in its sweet spot.

3 Reasons Why Summer Skin Needs Extra Care

This article is in partnership with One Skin. As summer kicks into high gear, the days get longer, and the sun gets stronger. It’s the perfect time to give your skin some extra love. Higher temps and increased sweating can clog pores, leading to irritation, breakouts, or dryness. And those stronger UV rays? They’re not just about sunburns—they accelerate skin aging, damage collagen, and increase the risk of skin cancer. If your goal is to feel good and keep that healthy, youthful glow, smart skincare isn’t optional, it’s essential. Summer Skin: Hydration is Critical Keeping your Stanley filled all summer long isn’t just trendy—it’s smart. Hydration plays a major role in skin health, especially when the temps rise. Dehydration can leave your skin looking dull, dry, and less plump. As sweat evaporates, your skin loses moisture, and rehydration becomes essential. On top of that, sun exposure can damage the skin’s moisture barrier, speeding up dryness and signs of aging. And while that post-beach blast of AC feels amazing, air conditioning pulls moisture from the air—and your skin—making things even worse. So, drink up and stay glowing. You may feel sweaty (and dare we say, moist), but your skin is still craving hydration. A good moisturizer doesn’t just make your skin feel better—it helps restore lost moisture, repair sun-exposed skin, and strengthen the skin barrier to protect against further dehydration and damage. We’re loving OneSkin’s OS-01 FACE SPF—not just for hydration, but for that ultra-natural, glowy look. It’s formulated with SPF 30+, making it perfect for your morning walk, running to Pilates class, or even just while on your laptop. Yes, you should be protecting yourself then too! Wear it solo or under makeup for a lightweight, buttery feel that actually does something good for your skin. This hydrating sunscreen is a true triple threat with non-nano zinc oxide, potent antioxidants, and the OS-01 Senescence Blocking PeptideTM. This summer BFF product blocks UV rays, neutralizes free radicals, and reduces the effects of past aging. Plus, it is available in untinted and three tints for breathable, flexible coverage. Grab your OneSkin OS-01 FACE SPF and get 15% off your first order with code: KERI SPF: The First Line of Defense The sun’s UV rays can do serious damage to the skin, making sunscreen a non-negotiable. Mineral sunscreens, which sit on the skin and reflect UV rays, are a great option—especially for sensitive skin. Look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher, and remember to reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Many of us have this down pat, but what we tend to neglect is one of our best summer accessories: our lips! Lips are often overlooked, but they’re even more vulnerable than the rest of your skin. The skin on the lips is about 75% thinner, which compromises both its barrier function and moisture retention. That means UV rays can penetrate more easily, leading to dryness, damage, and burns. A lip balm with SPF is a simple way to protect this delicate area. You won’t find our beach bags without OneSkin’s OS-01 Moisturizing Mineral Lip SPF 15+ Sunscreen. Formulated with 100% non-nano zinc oxide, this unique formula delivers immediate hydration and sun protection, while the OS-01 peptide works to visibly reduce signs of aging. Sweat Smart: By Keeping Your Skin Clear and Hydrated As temperatures climb, your body sweats more—and that’s a good thing. Sweating helps regulate your internal temperature, but it can also take a toll on your skin. When sweat mixes with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, it can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Instead of wiping sweat across your face (which can push impurities deeper), gently blot with a clean cloth or towel. Sweat also contains sodium, which can dehydrate the skin and aggravate conditions like eczema. To protect your skin, drink plenty of water and use a hydrating moisturizer to replenish what’s lost. With the right care, you can soak up the sun and embrace the sweat—without compromising your glow. Get Ready for the Sun, The Right Way As soon as the weather turns warm, it’s tempting to rush outside—but don’t forget to prep your skin first. Staying hydrated, wearing SPF (yes, even on your lips!), and caring for your skin post-sweat are simple habits that go a long way. With a little intention, you can soak up the sunshine while keeping your skin healthy, protected, and glowing all summer long. Grab your One Skin here and get 15% off your first order with code: KERI

Navigating Midlife Skin Changes: The Role of Hormones and How to Support Your Skin

This article is in partnership with One Skin. We are all quite aware that our bodies experience all kinds of changes as we move through life. One of the most noticeable shifts happens in our skin which is often the first thing a woman notices as far as aging goes. Midlife can bring a unique set of skin challenges, as hormonal fluctuations play a major role in how our skin behaves. The good news? Understanding what’s happening beneath the surface can help you take steps to support and nurture your skin through this transition. The Hormonal Rollercoaster: How Hormones Affect Your Skin During midlife, the most significant hormonal change women experience is a decrease in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a vital role in keeping the skin firm, hydrated, and youthful. As those levels start to drop, common skin changes can occur. We’re talking: Uneven Skin Tone and Hyperpigmentation: Hormonal shifts can increase melanin production, which might bring along age spots or melasma. The result? A skin tone that’s less even and more prone to those dark spots you never saw coming. Supporting Your Skin with the Right Products While lifestyle habits are hugely important, we can’t ignore choosing the right skincare products which play a major role. But, we don’t want just any products. We want products that roll up their sleeves and really do the work. Well, we’ve found them. We’re loving OneSkin’s eye cream and face moisturizer which are formulated to specifically address the very unique needs of midlife skin. OneSkin uses a patented OS-01 peptide that prevents the accumulation of senescent cells, (AKA “zombie cells,” which trigger the release of inflammatory factors) reducing the spread of these dysfunctional cells in the skin. The result? Healthier, more vibrant skin that looks, feels, and acts younger for longer. We’re in! OneSkin is offering Nutritious Life readers 15% off their first purchase with code KERI. Supporting Your Skin During Midlife: Beyond Skincare While it’s true that skincare products can provide essential support, there are lifestyle factors that can also play a significant role in how your skin ages. Here are some additional ways to keep your skin looking and feeling its best: 1. Hydrate from the Inside Out We all know hydration is important for our skin, but it’s even more crucial as we age. As estrogen levels drop, the skin loses moisture more quickly, so keeping your skin hydrated is key. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also boost hydration by eating water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens. 2. Fuel Your Skin with Antioxidants The foods you eat directly impact your skin’s health. To help combat the effects of oxidative stress and free radicals (the things that damage your skin cells and contribute to aging), focus on a diet rich in antioxidants. Colorful fruits and vegetables like berries, tomatoes, spinach, and carrots are packed with these protective nutrients. Also, omega-3-rich foods like salmon and walnuts can help keep your skin firm, hydrated and glowing. 3. Get Moving Exercise isn’t just good for your heart, it’s good for your skin too! Regular physical activity boosts circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your skin. It can also help reduce stress (which can trigger skin flare-ups like acne and eczema) and promote better sleep, which is key for skin repair. They call it “beauty sleep” for a reason. 4. Manage Stress Speaking of stress, let’s talk about it because let’s face it, life can get pretty hectic, especially in midlife. But here’s the thing: stress is a major troublemaker when it comes to skin. It triggers  inflammation and can even speed up the aging process. To keep your skin looking fresh, try incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine. Yoga, deep breathing exercises, or even a short walk outdoors can make a big difference. 5. Prioritize Sleep Our skin does a lot of its repairing and regenerating while we sleep, so getting enough rest is essential for keeping that youthful glow. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your body—and your skin—recover. If you’re struggling to fall asleep, creating a calming nighttime routine (think lavender essential oil, a good book, or some gentle stretches) can help signal to your body that it’s time to rest.  6. Wear Sunscreen Daily We all know the importance of sunscreen, but it’s especially crucial in midlife when our skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage and pigmentation changes. Even on cloudy days, make sure to apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. UV exposure can accelerate aging by causing wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, so protecting your skin is one of the best ways to maintain its health. Embrace Your Skin at Every Age The combination of healthy habits and the right skincare is the partnership that your skin craves and will leave you feeling more confident and radiant as you thrive in midlife. While hormonal changes may bring about some challenges, they also give you the opportunity to nurture and love your skin in new ways. By taking care of your body, fueling it with the right nutrients, staying active, and incorporating a skincare routine that supports your skin’s evolving needs, you can look and feel your best.

The Best Sources of Glutathione to Help You Feel Like Your Most Energized, Radiant Self

This article is in partnership with Setria Glutathione. An MVP for helping you live your most nutritious life and one I want more people talking about? Glutathione. This “master antioxidant” is a cellular powerhouse that helps detox your body, strengthen your immune system, and keep signs of aging at bay. (Think: more energy, better skin, overall good health.) But—plot twist—glutathione levels decline with age, stress, toxins, alcohol, and highly processed foods. The good news? You can support your body to make more of it naturally, starting with what’s on your plate. Top Food Sources of Glutathione Certain foods contain glutathione or help your body make more of it. These are the real heroes of a glutathione-boosting diet: Sulfur-Rich Vegetables (These provide raw materials for glutathione production) Other Power Foods that Contain Glutathione Also, consider adding whey protein (found in dairy) and Brazil nuts to your diet. Whey doesn’t contain glutathione but it is high in cysteine, a key precursor to glutathione. Brazil nuts, also not high in glutathione, but are high in selenium, which is a cofactor in glutathione production. Just 1 to 2 Brazil nuts a day gives you all the selenium you need! Supplements That Support Glutathione It’s important to consume a diet high in glutathione, not only for the glutathione itself, but also for other important nutrients the foods contain. If you’re already eating a nutrient-dense diet and feel like you need more support, supplements may be worth exploring.  Supplements are convenient and easy to find, plus they come in many different delivery systems including tablets, capsules, stick packs, liquid, powders, sprays and liposomal.  Make sure to check the labels, because not all glutathione is created equal. It’s best to look for a branded ingredient like Setria.  Setria® Glutathione has been clinically studied to increase blood glutathione levels and support the immune system. It has also been shown to support cellular and mitochondrial health. And functions as a potent antioxidant to enhance detoxification and supports antioxidant defenses in gut health. Reminder: Work with a healthcare pro to choose the right option for you. Lifestyle Habits That Protect Glutathione Levels Your other daily habits, not just what you eat and how you supplement, can help preserve and boost your body’s glutathione levels too. Here’s what to focus on: Move Your Body Exercise increases your natural production of glutathione. Walking, HIIT, strength training, yoga—just another reason to be consistent with your exercise regimen. Sleep Like It’s Your Job You restore glutathione while you sleep. Build a nighttime routine and aim for 7–9 hours. Drink Less Alcohol Alcohol depletes glutathione and stresses your liver. Cutting back gives your detox systems breathing room. Stress Less Chronic stress is a glutathione thief. Meditation, deep breathing, journaling, and yes—even dancing around your kitchen—help. Take note of how you are managing stress and implement a plan to reduce yours on a daily basis. Bottom Line? Your Glutathione Glow-Up Plan Eat sulfur-rich veggies, add in glutathione-supporting foods, consider supplementationAnd implement the other pillars of a Nutritious Life to help support your own glutathione levels. When you focus on glutathione, you’re giving your body the support it needs to thrive at a cellular level. It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference.

Glutathione: Your Body’s Master Antioxidant Ally

This article is in partnership with Setria Glutathione. What Exactly Is Glutathione? Glutathione (say it with me: gloo-ta-thigh-own) is a powerful antioxidant made in your body from three amino acids—glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. Think of it as your body’s natural detox squad, patrolling every single cell and cleaning up cellular messes before they become major issues. Unlike some nutrients that you only get from food, your body is built to produce glutathione. But here’s the kicker. Production naturally drops as we age and can be depleted by stress, poor nutrition, environmental toxins, and even intense exercise. By your 60s or 70s, you could be making half of what you did in your 20s. Ouch. So, Why Is It Called the “Master” Antioxidant? Glutathione doesn’t just neutralize harmful free radicals like other antioxidants do—it goes a step further. It recharges other antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and alpha-lipoic acid, essentially putting them back in the game after they’ve fought off oxidative stress. It’s the team captain, the coach, and the All-Star player all in one. Where Free Radicals Come From (and Why You Should Care) Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells, accelerate aging, and increase your risk of chronic disease. Your body produces them naturally—when digesting food, exercising, or fighting infections—but they also come from external sources like UV rays, pollution, cigarette smoke, and chemical-laden skincare products. Antioxidants help neutralize these free radicals. But glutathione? It’s like the antioxidant that keeps all the other antioxidants strong. Major Benefits of Glutathione How to Boost Glutathione Naturally Your body is smart, but it needs the right support. Here’s how to help it keep glutathione levels up: The Bottom Line Glutathione might not get the spotlight like vitamin C or collagen, but behind the scenes, it’s doing the heavy lifting for your immune system, detox pathways, and cellular health. Keeping levels high is one of the smartest wellness moves you can make—especially as you age.

Inspire Her: How Krisanne Robba Is Helping Women Nourish Their Lives Inside and Out

Meet the inspiring Krisanne Robba. Krisanne, what is happening in your career/life right now? Anything you want us and the world to know? I recently launched a Women’s Nutrition & Wellness, Health & Life Coaching Business: Inspire Her, where I help women unlock their full potential and become the healthiest, happiest versions of themselves. My passion is guiding women through their journey of personal transformation—whether it’s overcoming self-doubt, achieving wellness goals, or building sustainable, healthy habits that nourish both the mind and body. What inspired you to enroll in the Nutritious Life Studio? Having finished my health and life coaching certification I wanted to dive deeper into nutrition to be able to offer my clients the best of both worlds. A full health and life coaching program with the Nutritious Life philosophy as the foundation for my nutrition offerings. What was your favorite lesson, and why? The emotional eating module was one of my favorites as it is a topic I find so many people struggle with – including myself! I absolutely love the fact that even though I am a foodie, I no longer depend on food to make me feel better or require food to celebrate accomplishments. Were there specific lessons that helped you grow your business? The whole business unit of the program was very helpful to grow my business, and I love to look back on all of the lessons often to help me uplevel. What’s the one snack you always have with you when traveling? Nuts (pecans or walnuts usually) as they are nutrient-dense, boost satiety, regulate blood sugar and great for heart health. Also, the muscle bakery bars are the best treats I couldn’t live without! Your favorite conscious food indulgence? Pear & cheese ravioli! I love it! Oh, and cookie dough skillet or Biscoff cheesecake for dessert! It’s all about balance, right? How do you stay active outside the gym? I always take the stairs! This little shift in your routine is so beneficial for your health and a reminder that the little things add up.  I also participate in kids’ activities such as jumping in trampoline parks. Why does being older mean we have to miss out on all the fun?! What’s your weirdest healthy habit? Not sure if this is a weird healthy habit but I love to take contrast showers. At the end of a lovely warm shower, I turn the water all the way to the coldest setting for a minute or two. This is great to help boost circulation and strengthen the immune system. Which healthy habit do you wish you had more time for? I wish I had more time to practice mindfulness and meditate more often for longer periods —with young kids and a busy life I definitely don’t do that as much as I would like. What does it mean to you to “live consciously”? To me, to live consciously means living a life with purpose! Always making conscious efforts to live authentically and in alignment with my deeper values and empowered eating is also very important for living consciously in my opinion. If you had to name your healthy diet, what would you call it, and why? Inspire & Nourish Within! My business name is Inspire Her and this healthy diet name is the perfect accompaniment. “NLS Success” is a column highlighting the incredible accomplishments of Nutritious Life Studio alumni. We’re showcasing the healthy products our grads have created, the better eating habits they now consider second nature, and other ways NLS helped them find healthy, happy success—in life and business. Learn more about The Nutritious Life Studio, here.

How Can You Help Clients Stop Midnight Snacking for Good?

Q: Can you share some tips on coaching someone who refers to themself as a ‘midnight snacker’? A: This can be a tough habit to break, but once accomplished, it can have huge health benefits! I’d begin with these few steps: Step 1: Change the Narrative One of the most powerful shifts in behavior change starts with identity. Focus on the label that your client has adopted. Referring to themself as a “midnight snacker” is essentially perpetuating a narrative that needs to be changed in order to break free of the habit. Encourage your client to swap out the midnight snacker label for a new mantra that aligns with the behavior they want to adopt. Some great alternatives: By reinforcing this new identity, they’ll start to see themselves in a different light, making it easier to break the cycle. Step 2: Upgrade the Nighttime Routine Most often, late-night snacking isn’t about hunger—it’s a habit or a form of comfort. We’ve all been there, right? In addition to the mindset shift mentioned above, encourage your client to give their nighttime routine a boost. Help your client create a new, more satisfying evening ritual. A few ideas: When their nighttime routine becomes something they look forward to, and something that is in it’s own way comforting, they’ll be less tempted to snack out of boredom or habit. And, if they’re currently waking up and going for a snack, once they adopt a better nighttime routine they may be less likely to wake up in the middle of the night. Win-win! Step 3: Introduce a New Habit For those moments when your client is tempted to reach for a snack, give them a replacement habit to break the cycle. I sometimes call these non-food controls. Here are a few ideas: By implementing these small but effective habit shifts, your client can transition from being a “midnight snacker” to a “sound sleeper.” The Bottom Line Helping a client stop midnight snacking isn’t just about telling them to stop—it’s about shifting their identity, upgrading their routine, and giving them practical alternatives. With the right mindset and tools, they may finally be able to say goodnight to late-night snacking and hello to restful sleep.

From Chef to Nutrition Coach: How Maria Longo Transforms Wellness with Art and Mindfulness

Meet the one and only Maria Longo. Maria, what is happening in your career/life right now? Anything you want us and the world to know?  Right now, I’m dedicated to expanding the reach of my work through Art Flow Mind Body and Art Flow Design Studio, which beautifully blend creativity, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. These platforms serve as powerful vehicles for fostering personal transformation and resilience through diverse workshops and community programs.  My workshops—including Overcoming Overwhelm, Getting Unstuck, Empowering Through Adversity, and Fear and Anxiety—are thoughtfully designed to help individuals navigate stress, build resilience, and cultivate grounding. We prioritize providing practical, lasting resources enriched with visual inspiration, enabling them to stay present and seamlessly integrate the tools and lessons into their everyday lives. Through Art Flow Design Studio, I also host vendor craft events and create custom art that raises awareness for critical causes such as mental health, suicide prevention, and human rights. My work is rooted in a commitment to creating safe spaces for those who feel lost or overwhelmed, reminding them that they’re not alone and empowering them to take meaningful steps toward growth and well-being. Our Etsy shop offers unique pieces that reflect these values, allowing others to support our mission through art. I’m truly excited about the potential impact we can make and the connections we can foster through this work. Together, we’re cultivating a community where creativity meets compassion, and personal growth flourishes. What inspired you to enroll in the Nutritious Life Studio and become a nutrition coach? I was inspired to enroll in the Nutritious Life Studio because of my deep desire to understand nutrition and its impact on the body. As a chef, I learned to plan menus and create flavorful dishes, with a focus on incredible presentation, but I only scratched the surface of nutritional science. I wanted to dive deeper into how food affects us at a physiological level. Years after transitioning from a chef to a kitchen manager, I had a dietetic intern who sparked my interest. During her retail project, we had conversations about sustainability, our love for food, and how it influences our well-being as humans. She encouraged me to check out the Nutritious Life program, and I’m so glad I did! It resonated with me on so many levels, igniting my passion for nutrition and how it can transform lives. I truly loved every moment of it. What was your favorite lesson, and why? I loved how the Nutritious Life program was so thoughtfully designed, with each module broken down into digestible lessons that allowed for deep dives into the material without overwhelming me. As someone with dyslexia, I really appreciated this approach. The content was engaging and accessible. If I had to pick one lesson, though, it would be anything focused on brain health. I have a passion for mental health, and understanding how food nourishes the brain resonated deeply with me. It reinforced my belief that what we eat plays a crucial role in our mental well-being, making this lesson particularly impactful in my journey toward integrating nutrition and mental health. Were there specific lessons that helped you grow your business? Masterclass is a once-a-year event, and I’m grateful to have been a part of it since 2017. Each year, it reinvigorates my passion for nutrition and community, providing a unique opportunity to connect with others who share my vision. The experience is filled with inspiration, from engaging discussions to insightful guest speakers, all of whom bring their own expertise and perspectives. It’s not just about the lessons; it’s about the connections we forge and the support we offer one another. Every year, I leave feeling empowered, equipped with new ideas, and motivated to implement what I’ve learned in my own practice. Being involved in this event has profoundly shaped my journey, allowing me to continually grow both personally and professionally. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone in our pursuits and that together, we can make a greater impact in the world of health and wellness. The community we’ve built is something truly special, and I look forward to each gathering as a chance to learn, share, and uplift one another. You know we love food, so, we have to ask, what’s the one food you always have in your fridge?  The one food I always have in my fridge is mushrooms—especially button mushrooms. They’re incredibly versatile and add so much flavor and texture to a variety of dishes. Whether I’m sautéing them for a quick stir-fry, tossing them into a salad, or incorporating them into a hearty pasta, they’re a staple that never fails to elevate my meals. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients, making them a go-to for my healthy cooking routine. How about the one snack you always have when traveling?  The one snack I always have when traveling is my homemade snack pack. I whip up a delicious potato and egg frittata, cutting it into small squares for easy munching, or I prepare baked chicken cutlets. It’s a reflection of my chef life, ensuring I have nourishing, satisfying options on hand that keep me fueled for my adventures. These snacks not only provide great taste but also give me the comfort of home wherever I go. How do you stay active outside the gym? I stay active outside the gym by taking long, invigorating walks with my dog. There’s nothing quite like being immersed in nature, and I love exploring parks and beaches. The fresh air, the sound of the waves, and the vibrant beauty all around me refresh my spirit and keep me grounded. These moments are more than just physical activity; they’re a chance to connect with the world and appreciate its wonders. Whether it’s watching the clouds drift by or feeling the sand between my toes, these experiences nourish my soul and remind me of the joy that comes from being outside. It’s all part of my journey toward wellness—embracing the simple pleasures that keep me moving

5 Ways to Stop Suffering from Financial Stress

In addition to life’s regular anxieties, many of us are also experiencing financial anxiety for the first time right now. Whether it’s because of election season, the weather, or future uncertainty, many of us are worried about money.  Luckily, there are some very simple ways to combat financial worries. Tackling this often means a change of mindset—and financial anxiety is no different. Here are five ways to cure your financial stressors. The Thief of Joy  Always remember that comparison is the thief of joy. It’s really easy to look at Instagram and think that someone else has more money than you—and by extension, a better, cooler life—because they’re on a nice beach vacation while you’re tied to the computer or because they bought an expensive pair of shoes during lockdown while you were budgeting. But remember that you can’t tell someone else’s financial situation by social media, nor should you care. Focus on yourself and stop comparing. Once you put down the phone, you’ll feel almost instantly better. Take the Wheel Anxiety often comes from feeling out of control or lost. The best way to manage those feelings is to be proactive and take action. First, pinpoint what it is that you’re worried about. Is it planning for retirement? Trying to navigate life insurance? Then do your research. Take a class online or attend a virtual lesson on the subject. Once you’re armed with knowledge, you’ll feel more in control and better equipped to address your specific anxiety.  Reality Check Sometimes we suffer more in our imaginations than we do in reality. Take a second to think about the worst-case scenario. What will happen if your paycheck is short this month? Will your family and friends be able to help? Will you be okay? Can you always find another job? The answer to all of those is yes. Don’t let your mind spiral to the point where there’s a disconnect between your fears and what might realistically happen. Also remember to deal with issues if and when they come. There’s no use in whipping yourself up over “what if” questions. Save the real worrying for when a problem actually arises.  Small Bites Don’t try to tackle all of your financial anxieties at once. If you’re anxious about a number of things, pick one to address first. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you’re anxious about, say, how much you’ve been spending on groceries, whether you’ll be laid off, and if your company is doing alright financially. Choose the stressor that’s easiest to manage first. Once you’ve gotten one anxiety under control, you’ll feel better to move on to the others. If you try to address them all at once, you’ll only end up feeling more overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. And remember, not everything has to be dealt with right away. It’s okay to take time. Ask for Help This doesn’t have to mean spending more money on a therapist. Rather, use the tools already available to you, whether that’s technology or other people. Perhaps you ask your partner to hold you accountable by taking inventory of how much you spend each week, or you use a budgeting app to help you stay organized. It’s okay to seek out assistance. Sometimes anxieties worsen when we feel like we’re dealing with them alone. Even just talking to a friend about your anxieties can put your mind at ease.  Everyone deals with financial anxiety at some point. Remember that your anxieties aren’t unique and that there are resources out there to help cure them. Sometimes this is your own mind! Other times, it’s useful to use an app. Find whatever it is that works for you; it might even be a mix of things. Remember that a little of these feelings are good. It keeps us from overspending and impulse buying. You just don’t want your financial fears to get the best of you.

4 Surprising Simple Tips to Improve Your Overall Health this Summer

Summer naturally offers many health benefits that we can enjoy with just a little effort. Here are 3 simple tips to improve overall health this summer.