Sharing the results of my IgG food sensitivity test, as well as pros and cons of this testing method. 

Hi friends! How’s the day going so far? I hope that you’re having a great one! Today, I’m working on podcast stuff (new episode tomorrow) and meeting up with a friend for lunch.

For today’s post, I wanted to share a bit more about my personal health journey and one of the steps in the process: food sensitivity testing. When I first enrolled in the IHP program (you can check out my review of level 1 here and level 2 here), I knew that I’d love to be able to help friends and clients in an entirely different, more personalized way. I had no idea how much this information would help me on a personal level, too.

Through my knowledge in IHP and testing abilities, I’ve been able to discover some root causes and I’m working on rebalancing my body through removing the toxicities and restoring deficiencies.

At-home IgG Food Sensitivity Test Review (and my results)

The nutshell version:

– Last spring, I had horrible pink eye which became a trigger for constant eye issues – watering, super red, itchy, mucus-y eyes. I couldn’t wear contacts for almost three months. I’ve tried pretty much the entire pharmacy eye section :/

– I saw many eye doctors who were unable to help me (they just wanted to throw the kitchen sink of eyedrops and prescriptions at me, and nothing helped) – I finally found a dry eye specialist who was able to give me an action plan and my eyes improved tremendously

– I did blood work with my PCP to check basic markers and inflammation, and two markers for Lupus came back positive, which explained the joint pain I had in my hands and the strange rashes I’ve had over the years. Whenever I’ve been under periods of extreme or prolonger stress, I’d get a rash, and my hands would often ache at night, which I had attributed to typing so much.

– I instantly went into test and learn mode, doing an HTMA test, Candida Metabolic and Vi

Sharing my tips on how to reduce screen time and make the time you do spend on a screen as efficient as possible. 

Hi friends! How’s the morning treating you? We’re at Great Wolf Lodge with some friends and I’m looking forward to a hot yoga class later today. I hope you had a wonderful weekend!

Today, I wanted to talk about screen time. While it’s not something I could ever drastically reduce (my job would make that a liiiittle tricky), I tried to be mindful of the time I do spend on screens. We do the same thing with the kids. They’re only allowed a set amount of screen time, and it’s only after homework is completely finished – so some days, that means no screen time at all.

In a world where digital connectivity is ubiquitous, taking intentional breaks from screens has become crucial for our overall well-being. A digital detox offers the chance to recalibrate, reduce screen time, and minimize exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs).

Here are some practical tips to become more mindful of your screen time!

Digital detox tips and how to reduce screen time

The Impact of Digital Overload

Our constant exposure to screens, Wi-Fi signals, and EMFs can take a toll on our physical and mental health. From eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns to increased stress levels, the consequences of digital overload are vast. A digital detox is a proactive choice to reclaim control over our screen time and create a healthier relationship with technology.

Step 1: Assess Your Digital Habits

Start by assessing your current digital habits. Use your smartphone’s screen time tracking feature or dedicated apps to gain insights into where your time goes. Identify specific apps or activities that consume a significant portion of your day. This self-awareness forms the foundation for a successful digital detox.

Step 2: Set Clear Boundaries

Establishing boundaries is crucial for a successful digital detox. Define specific time periods when you’ll disconnect from screens, such as during meals, before bedtime, or during designated breaks. Communicate your boundaries with friends and family to ensure understanding and support.

Step 3: Create a Screen-Free Sanctuary

Designate certain areas in your home as screen-free zones. Bedrooms, dining tables, and relaxation spaces should be free from screens to promote better sleep and more meaningful connections. Consider creating a cozy reading nook or a designated space for mindful activities.

Step 4: Schedule Tech-Free Breaks

Incorporate regular tech-free breaks into your daily routine. Whether it’s a short walk outdoors, a coffee break, or a few minutes of deep breathing, these breaks provide a mental reset and reduce the cumulative effects of prolonged screen exposure.

Step 5: Unplug Before Bed

The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt our circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep. Aim to unplug at least an hour before bedtime. Establish a relaxing pre-sleep routine, such as reading a physical book, practicing

Hi friends! How are you? I hope you had a wonderful week! It was the kids’ first week back at school (wah) so we’re back in the routine and I’m already counting down the days until Rodeo Break. <— it’s an Arizona thing but we always look forward to a couple of days off in Feb

What are you up to this weekend? We’re going to do a sushi and movie night, get in a hike, and meet up with some friends in Scottsdale. I hope you have a fun weekend!

I started a 14-day EquiLife detox before I head into the CBO protocol. I’ll be doing a full post about everything, but let me know if I can help with any questions or include anything in the post.

It’s time for the weekly Friday Faves party. This is where I share some of my favorite finds form the week and around the web. I always love to hear about your faves, too, so please shout out something you’re loving in the comments section below.

Friday Faves 1.12

Life:

Liv is 12! I can’t even believe it. She’s officially a *tween* and so bright, intelligent, hilariously sarcastic, and I love her passion for dance, skincare, and music.

She asked for a homemade cake instead of a bakery cake, so P and I made this for her:

We spent the day at the mall for shopping, boba, and ramen with her best friend, and then had cake with my mom and nana. Disneyland was her big celebration, so we had a lovely low-key day on her actual birthday.

Italki! I was googling ways to practice Spanish and this had excellent reviews. The short story is that my mom’s side of the family speaks Spanish, but growing up, I’d always answer in English. I minored in Spanish in college, and would read novels and write essays, but we spent very little time actually speaking. So while I understand it really well an

Hey hey! How are you? I hope you’re enjoying the day so far. Today, I’m re-sharing this post with updated info – comparing two fitness tools: the fitness alta and the apple watch. They no longer make the Alta, but the Luxe is similar here. 

Apple Watch vs. the Fitbit Alta

Something that has helped a lot with my motivation to get moving and stay active throughout the day has been my Apple Watch. I’m a huge fan of fitness trackers – I’ve used multiple Fitbit models, the Tom-Tom Spark 3, Garmins, Polars, I’m kind of a nerd about fitness trackers – and the latest fave is the Apple Watch. It’s sporty but cute enough to wear every day, and the stats and interface are amazing.

When I switched over to the Apple Watch, I’d been wearing a Fitbit for the most part, and most recently the FitBit Alta. I like that the Alta is much smaller than other fitness trackers and it gave me similar stats (plus the heart rate model tracks your heart rate). I’ve been a Fitbit fan for years and have consistently used the Fitbit as an effective way to track my steps and workout stats. I’d been eyeing the Apple Watch for about a year, but wasn’t sure if the cost would be worth switching over.

When we first moved to Valdosta, we attended an auction for Liv’s new school, and on one of the tables was an Apple Watch. I decided to put it into destiny’s hands. A couple of mint juleps later, and lurking around the auction table, I was the proud new owner of an Apple Watch (and a pair of Prada sunglasses. Yolo. <— do people still stay that? hah)

Here’s my review of the Apple Watch vs. Fitbit Alta:

Interface:

The Fitbit interface is simple. It tells you everything you need to know (steps, distance, calories burned) without any extra bells and whistles. If you log into the app, you can also track data on sleep, which can be extremely insightful.

The Apple Watch takes things to the next level. Your goals for the day are split into little circles: move goals (calories burned), standing (I think it’s move for 5 minutes of every hour), and workout (30 minutes of activity per day). It’s SO satisfying to see the circles build throughout the day, and an easy way to glance and check how you’re doing.

Sharing 10 gluten-free, dairy-free soup recipes: nourish your body with flavorful, allergen-friendly soup recipes made with wholesome ingredients.

Hi friends! How’s the day going? I hope you’re having a great one so far! It’s finally WINTER here in AZ. our warm weather has transformed into a wintery tundra, and all I’m craving is a hot, comfy bowl of soup.

For today’s post, I’m sharing a roundup of 10 delicious and healthy soups you can try this winter!

10 Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Soup Recipes

1. Sausage Kale Soup via Fit Mitten Kitchen

This Sausage Kale Soup (also known as, “Zuppa Toscana”) is a comforting dairy-free soup classic. A healthier take on the Olive Garden recipe with a variety of ways to lighten things up. Make in the Instant Pot, slow cooker or on your stovetop! Dairy-free, Paleo, and Whole 30 friendly.

2. Instant Pot White Chicken Chili via The Almond Eater

Easy Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a creamy and delicious soup recipe that’s both gluten free and dairy free. It’s made with beans, corn, chicken, and plenty of spices, and then topped with cilantro, avocado and tortilla strips, making it incredibly filling, too.

3. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup via Cookie & Kate

This homemade butternut squash soup is the best I’ve ever tasted! This recipe is super creamy (yet cream-less) and full of delicious butternut flavor. Leftover soup tastes even better the next day. 

4.

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