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