Healthy Chicks

Last year mommy was wishing for me — she even received an ornament that said just “Believe.” Little did you know, I was already on the way, a magical journey just like Santa’s sleigh.

“It’s a Christmas miracle,” mommy shouted when she took the test. I was just a tiny poppyseed then, so I don’t really remember the rest. This Christmas, you get to actually hold me in your arms nice and tight, as the stars twinkle all through the night.

You took me to this place with a warm fire & lots of different shaped trees. “That’s the one!” daddy pointed and shouted with glee! I may have been sleeping for most of the trip, but I still had fun sucking my thumb and minding my own business.

Daddy likes the colored lights just like me, decorated with pretty ornaments on our Christmas Tree. This year I get special ones made with my name — Isabella Rose — and they twinkle in the night just like Rudolph’s red nose. When you feed me in the morning we listen to Christmas songs like Santa Claus is Coming to Town, but I’d have to say my very favorite is the album … 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!

December is here! Can you believe it? I’ve been busy this week taking part in holiday vendor fairs for Spark Your Bliss, and also ruined a big batch of truffles trying to be all cute and D.I.Y for gifts so there’s that. But we’re getting our Christmas tree this morning, and I’ve been loving experiencing the joy of the season with our little one!

Alrighty, it’s time for this month’s feature on Healthy Chicks in the Community, a series highlighting rockstar Girl Bosses doing their thang in the wellness world and beyond.

Today we’re chatting with Elissa Garza of Style-Wire! As a Social Media Influencer & Consultant, this Boston babe shares all about starting her own business and her love for her dog/BFF, Bubzy. I’ll let Elissa take it from here!

NAME: Elissa Garza

DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS/LINE OF WORK: Social Media Influencer & Consultant

WHERE YOU LIVE: Chelsea, MA

HOW YOU SERVE THE COMMUNITY THROUGH YOUR WORK: I always aim to serve my followers and clients through content; whether it’s sharing local events, supporting local charities, or just reminding my followers that I’m human and struggle too, I try to make a positive impact on everyone.

NUMBER … 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!

I can’t believe it’s almost been 3 months since we welcomed our beautiful little girl into this world. Suddenly the 48+ hours of painful contractions and early all-nighter feeding frenzies are a daze, and I now understand how people have more than one kid!

While much of my experience is hazy, one thing I know is certain: my experience wouldn’t have been nearly as sweet without my angel of a doula, Emma O’Brien of Lavandoula.

Not only did she answer all of my crazy pregnancy questions (Um, is that normal?! How will I know when it’s really go-time?), but she stayed with us throughout my lengthy labor. She even spent the night on our couch to console me during my painful back labor and helped me advocate for myself when the doctor wanted to induce me early due to a high blood pressure false alarm.

Seriously, she’s a superhero in my eyes! Not to mention, we bonded over our love affair with bone broth and essential oils.

When I told people I hired a doula, I received a mix of excitement and skepticism. A do-what? So I decided to interview my doula Emma to chat about the day … 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!

Dear mama, you are enough.

You are doing better than you think you are doing! I know you are new at this mom thing, but I am new at this too. Let’s learn together! You feed me yummy milk around the clock, and I’m putting on lots of weight! In fact, I even have some rolls which you and daddy think are “cute.”

The other day when I coughed and gagged a little while you were feeding me, I could tell you were scared. But I wasn’t choking, I was just clearing my throat because the milk was coming out a little fast. As I get a little older, I’m learning how to slow down and swallow better.

Yesterday when I had my 2 month shots I think it was harder on you than it was on me. That thing the lady jabbed into my thigh really pinched, but your big warm hug made me feel a lot better and I feel like a brand new baby after that long nap. I promise I’m OK, and the bandaids look kind of cool, don’t you think?

I know taking care of me isn’t easy and sometimes you feel sad and wonder … Read More!

Happy November, beauties! The start of a new month is my favorite time to reflect on my intentions for the month ahead — both personal and business-related. Each month, I write down what I’m grateful for, set some intentions for myself and map out how I’m going to get there. I also pull some affirmation cards to better align with my feelings and how I want to show up in the world. (You can read all about my new month ritual over here.)

Anyway, I am thrilled to bring back Healthy Chicks in the Community, a monthly series highlighting rockstar Girl Bosses doing their thang in the wellness world & beyond. Today we’re chatting with the lovely Nicole Marie Finch, whose mission is teaching burnt out individuals how to reconnect with their minds’ power in a way that actually works for them. We could all use a little of that, am I right?

In this insightful interview, Nicole talks about the launch of her first book, how to reconnect with your true self, and her obsession with the sweetgreen Harvest Bowl. (Fun fact: I named this bowl back when I worked on the marketing team!)

NAME: … Read More!