Healthy Chicks

Now that I’m approaching the one-year mark into this journey of motherhood (seriously, how?), I’ve been spending some time reflecting on the past year. Along with the joyous memories of baby coos, snuggles and those first giggles — which are seriously heart-melting — I can’t forget those challenging early days.

Being a mom is the most rewarding thing in the world, but taking care of a newborn is no joke!

While I was so overjoyed by my little bundle of joy finally being here in my arms, I was also overwhelmed with feelings of loneliness, confusion, doubt, and yes — sleep deprivation. This post from a week-and-a-half in sums up my feelings perfectly:

 

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Today was tough. Hubs went back to work this week, and little one has been cluster feeding during the day a.k.a. glued to the boob and nursing on the hour. 🤱 She screamed at the top of her lungs from 1-5pm unless I was holding her, and peed all over the changing table and her new outfit. I attempted to toast and reheat a waffle 3 times, which ended in one super burnt mess that I never got to eat

Confession: I have a major fear of public speaking. In fact, I fear doing any type of video, lecture, podcast or anything where I’m being recorded. I’m much more comfortable writing — pen to paper or behind a computer screen.

Fun fact: I turned beet red and almost fainted during my Communication Studies class in college, and actually had to close my eyes for a moment to get centered so I could finish my presentation.

So when Northeastern college student Zoe Kenealy asked to interview me for her new podcast, Ready to Launch, my initial thought was hell no. I then realized that was my good ol’ pal fear talking, and I quickly emailed her back taking her up on the opportunity.

During the interview, we talked about how fear tends to hold us back from doing the things we want to do — whether that’s launching a new creative project or ditching the calorie counting (in fear that you’ll gain weight).

But did you ever stop to think what’s on the other side of that fear?

I decided to break through my fear and open up to Zoe on her podcast, which you can listen … Read More!

Did you choose a word or a theme for 2019? With some thought and meditation, the word I chose to represent the new year is flow.

2018 was a year of growth for me — I grew a baby, I grew my business, I grew into this new role as a mama. It also felt a little cluttered, like hair in a messy bun while typing invoices while simultaneously trying to feed the baby before my coffee gets cold cluttered.

This year, my intention is for things to flow more freely — money, new friendships, this beautiful life as a new mama. Yes, there will be work to do (because #GirlBoss) but things don’t have to be “hard.”

While I typically like to get sh*t done and say yes to new opportunities, my inner voice has been whispering at me to slow down and take care of myself. I think as women — especially new mamas out there — we’re inclined to take care of others first and be people pleasers. However, when I find myself going there, I’m reminded that “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

I’ve been craving less social media and more … Read More!

‘Tis the season for peppermint mocha lattes, sleigh rides and taking care of YOURSELF. While you may be busy with cocktail parties, work deadlines and holiday shopping, it’s important to breathe, and put yourself first too. Here are 5 tips for a a more peaceful holiday season!

… Read More!

EEK, I’m thrilled to announce that my Spark Your Bliss Affirmation Card Deck was featured in the December issue of Health magazine (pg. 34)! It’s crazy to think that two years ago I was in the midst of my Kickstarter campaign, praying I’d get funded, and it brings me so much joy to see my decks out in the world.

Spread positivity this holiday season by gifting a Spark Your Bliss deck to yourself, a friend or family member.

Bonus: Now through 12/20/18 I’m gifting a FREE digital download of Spark Your Bliss themed meditative coloring pages with purchase of deck. 

Simply shoot me an email with proof of purchase, and I’ll send the coloring pages your way as a special holiday self-care treat! 

With love & holiday cheer,

Rachel… Read More!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! However, unfortunately holiday parties can bring on quite a bit of anxiety…especially around food. It’s common to feel anxious, guilty or even fearful over what you’re going to eat at your next social gathering. Sound familiar? No worries! Here are 6 healthy ways to navigate eating at holiday parties like a champ (without giving up apple pie).

1. Bring a Homemade Dish

Consider bringing a homemade dish to your next holiday gathering! Rather than focusing on the calories or fat content, focus on the beautiful, nourishing ingredients that go into your meal. Follow Mother Nature’s lead by cooking with seasonal produce like winter squash, apples, pears, sweet potatoes, beets, and of course — an extra dose of love!

2. Slow Down

The holidays only come once a year, and so does grandma’s famous mashed potatoes. Why race through them? Instead, take a deep breath before your meal, slow down and enjoy yourself. Relish in the flavors, the smell and the texture, and thoroughly soak in every last bite.

3. Celebrate the Experience

If eating at holiday parties brings you a lot of anxiety (trust me, I’ve been there), try shifting the focus … Read More!

Cold and flu season is approaching, and every year the whole “Should you get the flu shot?” question brings up quite the heated debate. Heck, you’d think we were talking about Politics!

While getting the flu shot is a personal choice you must make for your health (yes, you do have a say), I feel there are many things you can do to naturally keep your immune system healthy without getting vaccinated.

And while I typically decline the flu shot, this year I chose to bite the bullet since I have a newborn at home, and by getting vaccinated you can pass on antibodies through your breastmilk to help protect little ones. That said, I strongly believe that most healthy adults without compromised immune systems can power through cold and flu season unscathed by making a few simple adjustments for their health.

But whether you choose to get the flu shot or not, everyone — I repeat everyone — can benefit from keeping their immune system healthy. After all, even getting the flu shot doesn’t guarantee you will not get the flu.

Here are some of my favorite tried and true ways to naturally boost the immune system and stay … Read More!

Happy Spring, friends! Spring is one of my favorite seasons, as it’s a time for new beginnings, blossoming into your full power, and detoxing the things that are no longer serving you (be it food, relationships or clutter).

I absolutely love the sunshine, buying $5 tulips and delicious seasonal produce like snap peas, asparagus, sprouts and strawberries. Everything simply feels more alive…don’t you agree?

Spring is also the perfect time to start fresh by taking care of your mind, body & soul!

Join me for my 21-Day “Mind, Body & Soul” Spring Detox. During this 21-day group program, you’ll learn how to “detox” your mind, body and soul for the season ahead through seasonal cooking, mantras, and self-care tools.

The program officially kicks off Monday, April 23rd, and I hope you’re able to join me!

Challenges includes:

1. Weekly dose of positivity sent straight to your email (even better than your morning iced mocha!) with clear action-steps to implement right away for the three weeks. You’ll receive emails on Monday, Wednesday and Friday throughout the three weeks.

2. Access to private Facebook group to hold one another accountable – I’m a firm believer that the main reason we don’t … Read More!