TAKING ACTION: ✅ Do you often find yourself more motivated at the beginning of the year? Did you know this was a real thing before learning about the “honeymoon phase”? Let’s talk more about the honeymoon phase today, friends! You know I can’t help myself—I love to educate you on what’s really going on with your brain because when you’re aware of what’s happening, nothing will surprise you—and you can prepare for it! 💯 So, let’s talk about the good things happening right now—and why the New Year often feels motivational for many. When in the honeymoon phase, you experience what’s called the “fresh start effect”, and during this time, a sweet little brain cocktail is brewing. Let’s look at a few you might have heard of below ⬇️ 🧠Dopamine (feel-good chemical) increases due to novelty (something new), anticipation, and quick wins! 🧠Serotonin (happy chemical) increases with better sleep and blood sugar stability (hello, whole foods!) 🧠Endorphins (hormones that induce feelings of pleasure and well-being) increase due to more exercise. There are actually many other factors at play that make the honeymoon phase (or the “fresh start effect”) so effective; however, simply knowing that your brain is primed to take action—right now—is why the New Year is such a great time to lean in, friends. It isn’t miraculous. It’s just science. 😉 ⬇️OPTIONAL READING⬇️ Fresh Starts: The Psychology Behind New Year Motivation | Psychology Today

✅ What nutrient-rich food did you prioritize today (colorful veggies, quality protein, minerals, etc.)? ✅ Share your favorite meal or snack from today and tell us why it made you feel good 🍽️ We’re talking about the honeymoon phase this week in our small group—and we’ll dive deeper into that tomorrow—but since it’s Recipe Tuesday, I want to zoom in on why we focus on nutrients instead of calories! Let’s look at two people both eating 1,600 calories in a day: 🚫 Person One: Calories come mostly from ultra-processed foods, refined sugars, and industrial oils → Low vitamins, minerals, fiber, and amino acids → Blood sugar swings, cravings, inflammation, and fatigue ✅ Person Two: Calories come from whole, nutrient-dense foods → Adequate protein for tissue repair → Fiber for gut health and hormone balance → Minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium → Vitamins that support energy, detox, and metabolism Same calories. Very different biological outcome. When people only focus on calories, they often miss what actually runs the body: 🧠 Micronutrients for brain and nervous system health 🦠 Fiber and phytonutrients for gut and hormone balance 🔥 Amino acids and minerals for metabolism and recovery That’s why we don’t obsess over numbers here. We prioritize food quality, nutrient density, and how your body responds. Although we don’t count macros and calories, here are still some good recipes for you to try: 25+ Macro-Friendly Recipes {500 cals or less!} - Slender Kitchen As we step into a brand new year—and ride that fresh start energy—this is your reminder: 👉 Focus on feeding your cells, not restricting your plate. 👉 Nourishment first. Results follow. 💫

My daughter got this book for me for Christmas and I absolutely love it. Im supposed to answer all the questions and then give it back to her. It’s precious memories.

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I can't find a healthy or healthier alternative to ranch dressing.. I have tried multiple options. Share your favorites please!