💫 7 intentional foundations I live by for a healthier + happier life
Plus a delicious protein bar recipe to add more joy to your plate
Your ‘go-to’ newsletter for holistic self + health improvement to unleash your inner superwoman (or man). It’s like a health coach in your pocket!
Hello Subtack friends! I hope your day is off to a fabulous start.
Aren’t we all craving a fulfilling, joyful life and healthy life?
I know I am.
I am busy. Like, very busy — but at the end of the day, my top priorities are having fun, being healthy, and being happy. It’s so easy to get lost in the hustle and daily grind and forget about the joys of just being alive.
My friend’s significant other got rear-ended by a tractor-trailer going 55 MPH the other day. Miraculously, he is alive. Hearing about things like this… well, it makes you take stock and think about how you really want to live your life.
I want to live an active, healthy, and long life - for which there are many variables that I can control ⤵️.
Today, I’m talking about some life foundations that have helped me live healthier and happier.
These foundations are simple, yet powerful (in my opinion). You can start applying these foundations to your life immediately. And if you have some additional foundations you practice, please share in the comments. I truly love it when we can pay it forward by adding to the convo.
Think about this… 👇
Imagine at the end of your long day feeling energized instead of drained.
Whoa! Sign me up, right!?
I literally work to set myself up for more energy and joy throughout the day. I think about nutrients, movement, and stress-reducing activities like meditation. And guess what? When I practice those things - IT WORKS!
Yes, some days I am just tired and blah. This is what I do when I can’t get out of a funk on any given day: I accept that my body and mind need a break. I rest as much as I can and most importantly, I remember that how I feel today is temporary.
I think these foundations I am sharing are more like intentional self-love practices that bring energy, better health, and happiness to life.
This is the only life we have and we don’t know how long it will last.
That thought brings me to a grounded place where I want to experience as much joy and good health as possible.
Read on and see if you can apply any of these ‘foundations’ to your life to enhance your well-being and bring more positivity and joy.
🚰 Hydrate often.
Staying hydrated is a physical necessity. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain bodily functions, promotes clear thinking, and boosts energy levels. I simply feel more energized when my hydration levels are good.
Keep a water bottle handy wherever you go. If you work at home, use a pretty water pitcher at your desk like I do!
💪 Daily exercise.
Regular physical activity isn’t just about looking good - it’s about feeling fantastic. Daily movement releases endorphins, reduces stress, and enhances your overall mood. Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or a workout at the gym, making time for movement is a powerful investment in your health and happiness.
🩵 Don’t judge people.
The world becomes a kinder and more positive place when we let go of judgment. Practicing empathy and understanding, even when facing a challenging situation can open doors to meaningful connections and allow us to focus on the goodness in others. Remember, we all have our unique journeys, and our unique quirks.
Don’t judge — you don’t always know someone else’s story. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way.
✨ Give compliments freely.
Brighten someone’s day with a compliment! This is one of my favorite things to do!
Compliments are small, but powerful gestures that spread positivity and create an atmosphere of kindness. By freely sharing appreciation for others, you not only make them feel important, but it also cultivates positive energy all around you. Both of you will walk away smiling.
💚 Love as much as you can.
I think we all know that love is an extremely powerful force. Express love to friends, family, and to yourself freely and often. Love has the incredible ability to heal, uplift, and strengthen bonds.
💫 Gratitude every damn day.
Gratitude is a game-changer. Cultivating a daily gratitude practice shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have. Take a moment each day to acknowledge the blessings in your life, whether big or small. This simple act has the potential to transform your outlook and increase your happiness and health on a daily basis.
🍪Eat what you want in moderation.
Food is not just fuel — it’s a source of enjoyment. Allow yourself to savor the flavors you love while maintaining a sense of balance. Embrace mindful eating, savor each bite, and make choices that honor your well-being. Remember, it’s about moderation, not deprivation.
This is how I do it: eat very healthy 90% of the time, and indulge in whatever I want 10% of the time. I find it’s the perfect balance.
The 7 foundations in a nutshell:
Hydrate often
Daily exercise
Don’t judge people
Give compliments freely
Love as much as you can
Gratitude every damn day
Eat what you want in moderation
Leading a healthier and happier life doesn’t require super complex strategies. By embracing these seven simple foundations you’re opening doors to a more vibrant and positive existence.
If these 7 don’t resonate with you, take some time to think about what you can add to your daily routine to boost your health and happiness. We are all bio-individual human beings. What works for me might not work for you. But I do hope that I’ve inspired you with these words today.
Would you like the BEST Dark Chocolate Protein Bar recipe ever? At least I’d like to think so! Next time I make it I’m adding chia seeds to level up my omega 3s. In all seriousness, this recipe is quite delicious.
Get the recipe download below. You can print or save the pdf to your recipe files. I cut the recipe in half because it’s only two of us at home.
On to helpful recommendations for overall well-being:
••Here’s a journal prompt to get you thinking about ENERGY - ask yourself this in the mornings: How energized do I feel this morning on a scale of 1 to 10? If my energy is low, what steps can I take to lift my spirits and feel more energized?
••I made this cottage cheese banana bread by Rachel Mansfield the other day and LOVED it (the protein profile is amazing). I will be making it on repeat! Next time I might add in some dark chocolate chunks. It is not overly sweet, so you can drizzle some raw honey on top to add a touch more sweetness.
Get Rachel’s recipe here.
More ways to connect with me:
📱️Join me on the socials: Instagram + Pinterest are my favs
✍️Some reads you might enjoy ⤵️
Until next time…
Cheers to a healthier and happier you!