Navigating the path of a healthy living legacy can often feel like an immense and daunting journey. The pursuit of a cleaner, more holistic lifestyle for our families is laden with challenges, choices, and continuous learning. From scrutinizing product labels for harmful ingredients to exploring holistic health alternatives and delving into the world of sustainable food practices, it’s a journey that can leave us feeling exhausted. To add to the complexity, it seems like every day, new revelations surface about the potential hazards lurking in products we once considered safe. If you’re treading this path, you understand the weight of this responsibility all too well.

Creating a Healthy Living Legacy …

Last night, as I tended to my youngest, who was struggling with allergies and a stuffy nose, I was reminded of the profound impact our choices can have. Before bedtime, he had asked for a supplement we regularly use to support our liver health, made from wholesome beef liver oil. Later, he came downstairs to me seeking out peppermint oil to ease his discomfort. In that simple, yet significant moment, the fatigue and burden I sometimes feel vanished. It was a poignant reminder that what we do is worth it – and our kiddos do pay attention (even if sometimes it doesn’t feel like it).

I want to encourage you, dear mama who is also on this transformative journey. I know the weight of this season can be overwhelming. Sometimes, just adhering to the status quo seems like the easier path; and the world often nudges us in that direction. It’s challenging to carry the intense responsibility of nurturing these little souls, especially when it involves making choices that run counter to what society presents as the norm.

Yet, every action you take, every piece of knowledge you impart, and every healthy choice you make has the power to change the course of a generation. We are instilling wisdom and understanding into our children’s hearts, knowledge that has been lost over time. This wisdom will be passed down through the ages, shaping the legacy we leave behind. Sometimes, I’m struck by how many things my great-grandmother effortlessly knew… things I’m now struggling to learn and master.

If my words seem unfamiliar, and you’re not quite sure what I’m talking about, take a moment to visit my about page. There, I share my deep-rooted belief in returning to the wisdom of the past, a wisdom that has been buried beneath layers of modern living. Despite the challenges, doubts, and moments when it feels like too much, remember this: your calling is worth it. God has a profound purpose for you and your family. On days when it all feels overwhelming, know that He is your strength.

Can you imagine the tremendous reward when we witness the impact of our choices on our children and grandchildren? I promise you, it’s worth every ounce of effort, every late-night study session, and every decision to choose a cleaner, healthier way of life. The legacy you are crafting is immeasurable, and the world-changing impact is beyond our current comprehension. Stay the course, dear mama; you are changing the world, one choice at a time.

If you are looking for more information and resources for this lifestyle, check out these ladies on Instagram: KoriMeloy, NoelleKovary, and Simplyy_Sarah_!

Are you looking for a delicious way to boost energy, support your health, and stay hydrated all at once? Something that everyone in the family can benefit from? I’ve got you covered! Let me introduce you to the world of nourishing adrenal cocktails. This recipe uses the power of whole foods to introduce essential nutrients to your family, and will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.

Nourishing Adrenal Cocktail – what is it? …
and why is it beneficial?

Adrenal cocktails are nutrient-packed beverages designed to nourish and support the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are tiny, but play a crucial role in regulating your body’s stress responses, metabolism, and overall energy levels. In today’s fast-paced world, chronic stress and demanding lifestyles can take a toll on our adrenal health, leading to fatigue, mood swings, and other imbalances. So I’m sure you can see where supporting these little bundles is a really important piece of the health puzzle.

Our bodies require tons of minerals, antioxidants, and protein to sustain us. The adrenals in particular have high requirements for salt and potassium and are often very depleted. The ingredients in this nourishing adrenal cocktail work together to balance blood sugar and replace vital nutrients that support adrenal function, aid hydration, and promote overall well-being. Below I break down what each of them is good for … if you just want to get to the good stuff, scroll to the bottom for the easy-to-make recipe!

Orange Juice

Orange juice, as we all know, is a rich source of vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant known to help combat oxidative stress caused by everyday pollutants and stressors. Additionally, vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis, further supporting joint health and skin elasticity. Including orange juice in your adrenal cocktail provides a tangy, flavorful boost of energy and immune support. An extra bonus on this one: most kids (and husbands) love orange juice, so it’s an easy family sell.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich fluid that helps replenish lost minerals due to sweating or dehydration. Potassium, magnesium, and calcium found in coconut water play a pivotal role in maintaining proper muscle function, nerve transmission, overall hydration, and a myriad of other things (feel free to research the benefits of magnesium on your own and you’ll be amazed at the powerhouse that it is). My favorite part is that coconut water brings a tropical twist to this cocktail while providing essential nutrients to keep the whole family active and vibrant.

Salt

Adding a pinch of high-quality sea salt to the adrenal cocktail helps balance electrolyte levels, especially sodium and chloride. Sodium is critical for maintaining fluid balance and supporting proper nerve function. Incorporating a small amount of salt ensures that your family stays well-hydrated during active days. I’ll be honest here, my kids don’t love when I add the normally recommended amount of salt to their cocktail, so I add less. If you’re a mom, you understand my willingness to compromise this point to just get them to have anything healthy at all.

Cream of Tartar

Cream of tartar, or potassium bitartrate, is an unexpected but valuable addition to the adrenal cocktail. It is an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, muscle contractions, and nerve signals (what?! yes – you heard that right. who knew?!). Alongside coconut water and salt, cream of tartar completes the electrolyte trio, making this cocktail perfect for replenishing the body.

Collagen

This is not a normal add for most of the adrenal cocktails I’ve seen recipes for. But I love this one because I use a berry-flavored collagen which my kiddos absolutely love. Plus, collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and a crucial building block for healthy skin, bones, and joints. As we age or face increased stress, our body’s collagen production naturally declines. Incorporating collagen peptides into the adrenal cocktail promotes joint flexibility and skin elasticity, supporting an active and youthful lifestyle for your entire family.

Incorporating this traditional nourishing adrenal cocktail into your daily routine is an easy way to embrace a healthier lifestyle together as a family. But don’t stop there! Feel free to get creative and experiment with additional ingredients like coconut milk/cream to enjoy an extra boost of good fats. Remember, making small, mindful changes to your family’s diet can have a big impact on their energy levels and vitality. So, raise your glasses and toast to a happy, healthy, and vibrant family, fueled by the goodness of whole-food nutrients! Here’s to more memorable moments and endless smiles together – Cheers!

Embarking on a journey towards a cleaner, healthier, and more holistic lifestyle for your family is so commendable … but it’s important to acknowledge that this path isn’t always easy, and perfection is not the goal. Over the past six years, my family and I have taken steps to transform our lives, and while we’re far from flawless, we’ve made significant progress.

Cleaner Family Supplements

Swapping out cleaning products is a really great, accessible starting point to work toward eliminating harmful chemicals from your home. Another simple but impactful category to tackle is supplements and over-the-counter medications. In this post, I’ll share a few swaps my family has made that I have been really happy with … and remember, it’s not about perfection – it’s about progress and sustainability!

1. Heartburn Tablets: Heartburn is a common issue in many households, and it’s something my husband and mother-in-law have dealt with in spades. Surprisingly, we’ve found that most heartburn medications are not meant for extended use due to causing potential vitamin and mineral deficiencies (and even risks of stomach cancer). We’ve recently switched to WonderBelly tablets, which don’t have a lot of the harmful ingredients you’ll find in many popular brands (talc, titanium dioxide, dyes, etc) … plus it’s non GMO, vegan, clean label, gluten free, etc. While I’m still doing some research on them, so far we’ve had great success with these tablets.

2. Allergy Medication: Allergies are something new for me. Since moving to Tennessee I have had allergies like you wouldn’t believe (literally giving me nausea-inducing vertigo at times). Because of my reactions, I had found myself in a state of taking medications every single day to combat this annoyance. One day I was talking to my chiropractor, and he recommended Antronex, a supplement made from Bovine Liver Extract. Skeptical at first, I began taking Antronex alongside my regular allergy pills. Eventually, I gained enough confidence to switch completely, and I was honestly amazed at how well it worked – and I’ve turned many local friends into fans as well. Antronex supports the body’s natural detoxification system and has been a game-changer for our family’s allergy management. VERY rarely I’ll find that I’ll need to take standard medication to keep me going during the most allergen-heavy weeks of the year. But I’ll take it!

3. Beef Organs: Organ meats are some of the most nutrient-dense foods out there. For example, liver, often considered one of the best organ meats, is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, B12, and folate, along with minerals like iron and zinc. These nutrients play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin, eyes, immune system function, and cognitive health. Organ meats are also rich in high-quality bio-available protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Consuming organ meats can be an efficient way to ensure your body gets a wide range of essential nutrients, but not everyone enjoys consuming them (including me). That’s where beef organ capsules come in. These supplements contain liver, heart, kidney, pancreas, and spleen, providing comprehensive support for your body’s vital organs. Since incorporating them into my routine, I’ve experienced increased energy levels, and I’ve even noticed that my blood work has improved since I’ve regularly started taking these. While it may sound unusual, it’s a simple way to incorporate much-needed vitamins into your day.

4. Energy Powder: Do you (or your husband) frequently partake in energy drinks or shots? Honestly, my husband does way more than I do. Did you know energy drinks are HORRIBLE for you?! Many contain stimulants and additives which can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and digestive problems. For those moments when an energy boost is needed, let’s switch to something better! Unlike conventional energy supplements filled with chemicals, my favorite energy powder sticks are convenient and packed with vitamins and adaptogens that give you energy while enhancing focus and mood – while incorporating good-for-you ingredients.

5. Sleep Drops: Sleep supplements have become an incredibly popular solution for those struggling with insomnia or restless nights. However, the reliance on over-the-counter sleep aids can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to a dependency on these supplements just to fall asleep. This vicious cycle can be counterproductive and impact your overall health. In my experience, I’ve witnessed many family members caught in this pattern. That’s why I was thrilled when my partner company introduced their sleep drops. This innovative tincture incorporate ingredients like l-theanine, GABA, and 5-HTP, which signal your brain to relax and promote restful sleep. The best part? Unlike some sleep aids, they won’t leave you feeling groggy in the morning!

Remember, the path to a cleaner and healthier lifestyle is personal and unique to each family. Not every swap I’ve made will necessarily work for you, but I encourage you to take steps that align with your family’s needs and values. Progress may be gradual, but every positive change contributes to a healthier and happier life. Keep in mind that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your journey toward a cleaner lifestyle is a process worth celebrating.

In the quest for healthier, glowing skin, I’ve made some significant upgrades to my skincare routine over the past few years. While it’s partially due to my job, it’s also a personal journey I’ve been eager to embark on. Dealing with acne for most of my life led me to rely on harsh medications to manage it. But as I’ve been working towards reducing the toxins in my life, skincare has become a crucial part of my transformation. Enter essence water, a relatively new superstar in the skincare world that has worked wonders for hydrating my skin and offers a multitude of benefits. I’m convinced that everyone over 30 should have this gem in their skincare arsenal.

The Benefits of Essence Water

In the ever-evolving realm of skincare, there’s always a new trend or product promising to be the secret to radiant, healthy skin. Today we’re going to talk about the benefits of essence water and why it deserves a coveted spot in your daily skincare routine.

The Essence of Essence Water: What Is It?

Before we delve into the benefits, let’s start with the basics. Essence water, at its core, is a lightweight, hydrating liquid. Unlike traditional toners, which can often contain astringents or exfoliating agents, essence water is pure and simple—water with a purpose. It’s typically formulated with potent ingredients that target specific skincare concerns. Think of it as a concentrated elixir that preps your skin to maximize the benefits of the products you apply next.

Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

One of the primary reasons to incorporate essence water into your routine is its exceptional hydrating properties. Hydration is the foundation of healthy, glowing skin. Essence water provides an extra layer of moisture that helps combat dryness, flakiness, and the dullness that can result from dehydrated skin (which occurs more and more as you age). By infusing your skin with hydration from the get-go, you’re setting the stage for a radiant complexion.

Enhanced Product Absorption: The Essence Advantage

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to embrace essence water is its ability to supercharge the effectiveness of your skincare products. When you apply essence water before your serums, moisturizers, and treatments, you’re essentially priming your skin to absorb these products more efficiently. This means that the active ingredients in your subsequent skincare steps penetrate deeper and work more effectively. In essence (pun intended), you’re getting more bang for your buck from your favorite skincare products.

Targeted Treatment for Various Skin Concerns

Essence waters are not one-size-fits-all. They come in a variety of formulations designed to address specific skincare concerns. Whether you’re looking to combat the signs of aging, improve texture, enhance your skin’s natural radiance, or boost hydration, there’s likely an essence water tailored to your needs. These formulations often contain a mix of vitamins, antioxidants, and other potent ingredients that deliver targeted benefits.

The Anti-Toner: Gentle and Nourishing

If you’ve ever experienced the stinging, redness, or dryness associated with traditional toners, essence water offers a refreshing alternative. While toners often act as chemical exfoliants, essence water takes a gentler approach. It’s all about nourishing and hydrating your skin, making it suitable for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.

The Essence Water Selection: What to Look For

My personal favorite, Revitalizing Essence, targets aging and texture—two areas I’ve been working diligently on. My journey began with frustrating skin problems, so when I shifted my focus to plant-based products my concerns to deal with were large pores, rough texture, dry and oily patches, and the inevitable signs of aging now that I’m in my 30s.

When you’re in the market for an essence, prioritize products with naturally-derived ingredients sourced from plants. Filtered / distilled water should be at the top of the ingredient list, ensuring you’re getting the purest form of hydration. Steer clear of any essence with alcohols or other drying agents— it is all about hydration and balance.

Conclusion: Embrace the Essence

Essence water might sound like a skincare trend, but it’s a game-changer if you’re serious about getting the most out of your skincare routine. In a world filled with skincare options, this stands out as a simple yet effective addition to your routine. Its hydrating properties, enhanced product absorption, and targeted treatment options make it a must-try for anyone looking to achieve healthy, radiant skin. As you prepare to face the day—or unwind at night—don’t forget to incorporate this beauty elixir into your daily skincare ritual. Your skin will thank you for it!