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Embracing Wellness: February Healing Favorites and Travel Survival Tips

Hello, wonderful community! As we transition into the vibrant energy of March, it’s time to reflect on the healing favorites that truly made a difference in February. True to its nature, February felt like it flew by in the blink of an eye. I remember as a child, learning about the calendar, I always found February to be the peculiar month, often wishing it had more than its traditional 28 days! If only we could add a few extra to truly accomplish everything on our plates, wouldn’t that be a dream?

This past February marked my first complete month navigating a fascinating work arrangement: balancing Unbound Wellness with various consulting and marketing projects. I must confess, I’m absolutely thriving in this new setup. It has allowed me to channel a more focused energy into Unbound Wellness, leading to the creation of some truly heartfelt recipes and insightful posts that I’m incredibly proud of. Beyond sharing new content, I also launched a free 30-day challenge and support group, designed to provide comprehensive guidance and community as you embark on your own gut healing journey. This initiative perfectly complements my e-book, The 30 Day Gut Healing Guide, and is all about fostering an environment of continuous support and shared progress.

Amidst this exciting professional shift, February also brought an unexpected challenge: a bout of the flu. It was certainly not a highlight, as it completely sidelined me for four days, right before a crucial work trip to Vegas! This experience profoundly shaped my favorites for the month, as many of them became essential tools for navigating that trip in a way that prioritized my healing and recovery. Let’s dive into these game-changers, starting with an item that proved to be an absolute lifesaver on the road: my trusty lunch crockpot.

1. My Lunch Crockpot: A Game-Changer for Healing Travel

When it was time to depart for my work trip, I was only just beginning to recover from the flu. My fever had finally broken merely hours before I boarded the plane, and my appetite was still far from its normal state. Typically, I’m a meticulous planner when it comes to travel, especially for work, spending hours on meal prep. However, being bedridden for an entire week left me with zero preparation time, and I was genuinely perplexed about how I would manage three days in a hotel while still in recovery.

The morning before my flight, a brilliant idea struck: I decided to batch prep two nourishing, bone-broth-rich soups – a comforting carrot ginger soup and a creamy butternut squash sage soup – and freeze them. They barely had enough time to solidify before the flight, but here’s a pro tip for fellow travelers: as long as liquids are fully frozen, you can safely bring them through airport security. Armed with my frozen soups, I also packed my indispensable lunch crockpot. This small appliance, designed specifically for individual portions, utterly saved the day and my recovery journey.

The beauty of the lunch crockpot lies in its simplicity and efficiency. It doesn’t actually cook food; rather, it gently heats it to a safe and enjoyable temperature, and then maintains that warmth, much like a traditional slow cooker. This makes it an ideal solution for those who prefer to avoid microwaves at work or, as in my case, for traveling with pre-made, healthy meals. It typically takes about an hour or two to heat your food thoroughly. Each morning, before heading out of my hotel room for conference sessions, I would simply plug it in with one of my frozen soups. Returning for lunch, I was greeted with a perfectly warm, nutrient-dense soup, a comforting and healing meal that would have been incredibly difficult to source otherwise while traveling and recovering. This device was not just a convenience; it was a cornerstone of maintaining my health on the go, proving to be the perfect companion for anyone following a healing protocol like AIP while traveling.

2. Acorn Squash & Embracing Lower-Starch Carbohydrates

Another beloved addition to my February favorites was acorn squash! This versatile winter squash became a staple, especially during my conference. I brought pre-roasted acorn squash with me, which I conveniently heated in my lunch crockpot alongside cauliflower rice – a truly satisfying and healing meal while away from home. Throughout the rest of the month, roasted acorn squash continued to feature prominently as a delicious and nutritious side dish with various meals.

Winter squash varieties, like acorn squash, are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, offering sustained energy without the heavy starch load. This month, I’ve been making a conscious and concentrated effort to incorporate lighter, less starchy carbohydrates into my diet. This strategy is specifically aimed at further balancing my gut health and stabilizing my blood sugar levels. I consistently observe a significant positive difference in both my digestion and hormonal balance when I reduce my intake of higher-starch foods. For individuals like myself who are aware of gut dysbiosis or an overgrowth of certain gut bacteria, these unwelcome residents tend to thrive on starches, often exacerbating symptoms and creating flare-ups. Moreover, my blood sugar remains far more stable and predictable when I lean into a diet rich in less starchy vegetables.

This intentional shift has truly been making a profound difference in how I feel day-to-day. It’s important to note that this isn’t necessarily a permanent dietary change, but rather a responsive adjustment based on what my body is communicating it needs right now. Listening intently to my body’s signals has been a cornerstone of my healing journey, and this current focus on lower-starch carbohydrates is a perfect example of that adaptive approach to wellness. It’s about finding what creates harmony within your unique system.

3. Smoked Salmon: My Ultimate Nutrient-Dense Breakfast

Oh, smoked salmon – you are my absolute favorite indulgence, and I’ve been treating myself generously this past month! Since I still avoid whole eggs, smoked salmon has firmly established itself as my ultimate go-to breakfast item. When paired with vibrant veggies like fresh leeks and peppery arugula, perhaps with a side of fruit for a touch of sweetness, I am undeniably one happy and well-nourished camper. The combination is not only delicious but incredibly satisfying and packed with goodness.

Salmon, in all its forms, stands out as a truly remarkable healing food. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, exceptionally rich in healthy fats, and boasts a high concentration of anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation throughout the body, and supporting overall cellular function. For me, salmon was one of the very first healing foods that I genuinely fell in love with on my wellness journey, and to this day, it remains a consistent fixture in my diet, appearing in some form almost every single week. Whether baked, pan-seared, or smoked, its health benefits are undeniable.

While smoked salmon might be a bit more of a splurge item compared to other proteins, its dense nutritional profile and incredible flavor make it worth the investment. Sometimes, you just have to prioritize nourishing yourself with high-quality, delicious foods that bring you joy and support your healing process. It’s a treat that truly gives back.

4. Sea Snax: Your Go-To Portable Thyroid Support

Continuing the theme of travel-friendly favorites, Sea Snax definitely earned a top spot this month! I first discovered these delightful snacks when I packed an abundance of them for my trip to Indonesia in December, and I’ve been completely hooked ever since. Seaweed, the primary ingredient in Sea Snax, is renowned for being incredibly rich in iodine, a vital mineral absolutely essential for optimal thyroid health. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being, and adequate iodine intake is key to its proper function. It is important to approach iodine consumption thoughtfully, especially for those managing conditions like Hashimoto’s, where excessive intake can sometimes be counterproductive. However, enjoying a few Sea Snax here and there offers a fantastic way to incorporate this beneficial nutrient in a balanced manner.

These crispy, savory sheets of roasted seaweed are truly perfect for tossing into your purse or backpack, providing an instant, healthy vegetable snack when you’re on the go or navigating the demands of travel. They are lightly roasted in olive oil, which gives them their irresistible flavor and texture. A small heads-up: they can be a bit messy due to the oil, so it’s always a good idea to have a napkin handy! Despite this minor detail, their convenience, nutrient density, and deliciousness make them an invaluable addition to any wellness-focused snack repertoire, especially for those seeking easy ways to support their thyroid health.

5. Sweet Apricity Caramels: Mindful Indulgence on a Healing Path

On a healing journey, we all understand that treats are to be enjoyed with careful consideration and, most importantly, in moderation. Yet, as I often remind myself, there are moments when a little indulgence is not just permissible but truly necessary for the soul! Sometimes, you simply have to treat yourself to something that brings joy and satisfaction.

I had been seeing Sweet Apricity caramels frequently pop up across social media, and my excitement was palpable when I finally had the opportunity to try them last month! These delightful caramels are completely compliant with the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), meticulously crafted with nourishing ingredients like coconut and other natural components. What I particularly appreciate about them is that they are thoughtfully portioned into small, individual caramels. This design is brilliant for mindful eating – it encourages you to savor just one or two, allowing you to enjoy a sweet moment without the temptation of overindulging from an entire bag. It’s about conscious enjoyment rather than reactive binging.

Proof of their irresistible deliciousness came from my non-AIP husband, who, despite their beautiful packaging, literally tore off the label and devoured over half the box! That’s how incredibly good these caramels are. Next time, I might have to employ some stealth tactics to keep them hidden if I want to enjoy them myself!

6. Favorite Healing Book: Namaslay by Candace Moore – Merging Yoga and Healing Narratives

After diligently following her inspiring work for a considerable period, I finally made the decision to acquire a copy of Namaslay by the remarkable Candace Moore. Candace is the visionary creator behind Yoga By Candace, a platform where she consistently delivers exceptional yoga videos and invaluable content that I have personally incorporated into my routine numerous times. Her journey is particularly compelling because she shares a truly unique and powerful healing story, having recovered from chronic Lyme disease through the dedicated application of the GAPS diet. Her book, Namaslay, beautifully intertwines her personal healing odyssey with comprehensive tutorials for various yoga poses, making it a holistic guide for mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga has played an absolutely monumental role in my own healing journey, offering both physical strength and mental serenity. While I generally prefer the communal energy and guidance of studio classes, I am incredibly eager to delve deeper into this book. My goal is to use its rich content and detailed instruction to further refine and deepen my personal at-home yoga practice, allowing for a more consistent and introspective approach to my wellness routine.

7. Favorite Healing Influencer: Jackie of Jack Attacks Life – Authenticity in Wellness

For several months now, I have been an avid follower of Jackie of Jack Attacks Life (formerly known as Jack Attacks Arthritis), and without a doubt, she stands out as one of the most inspirational, genuine, and hilariously engaging individuals I follow online. Jackie transparently documents her multifaceted journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis, navigating thyroid cancer, managing anxiety, embracing parenthood, and so much more. Her unwavering authenticity and down-to-earth approach make her story incredibly relatable, resonating deeply with anyone navigating their own health challenges or simply seeking an honest voice in the wellness space. She consistently demonstrates that true strength lies in vulnerability and humor.

This month, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Jackie in person – a truly delightful experience! I knew she resided somewhere in a desert region, but it was a pleasant surprise to discover upon my arrival in Vegas for my work trip that she actually lived quite close to where I was staying. This serendipitous proximity allowed us to arrange dinner together, and I can confirm that she is just as wonderful, vibrant, and engaging in person as she is online, y’all! Her infectious energy and candid spirit are truly a breath of fresh air. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give her a follow on her social media platforms and prepare to be inspired, uplifted, and undoubtedly, to laugh out loud.

8. Favorite Healing Verse: Psalm 23:4 – Comfort in the Darkest Valleys

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4

This particular verse consistently evokes deep emotion within me. It speaks to a universal human experience, but resonates especially profoundly with those of us on healing journeys. There are countless moments when it feels as though we are indeed walking through the “darkest valley” – moments where our problems seem relentless, and we fear sinking deeper into the throes of illness. It often feels like there’s always something new to contend with, and the path to wellness is rarely, if ever, an easy one. The complexities of chronic conditions, dietary restrictions, and the daily struggles with fatigue or pain can make one feel incredibly isolated and overwhelmed.

However, this powerful verse serves as a crucial reminder that even in those profoundly dark and challenging moments, we are never truly alone. God is with me, and God is with all of us. While we may not always comprehend the “why” – why we can’t enjoy a simple slice of pizza like others, or why debilitating fatigue persists despite our best efforts – the steadfast presence of a higher power offers immense comfort and strength. It reminds us that while problems are an inherent part of this earthly experience, we are never abandoned. This truth provides a deep sense of peace and resilience, empowering us to continue our healing journey with faith and hope, knowing that divine comfort is always within reach. We are all connected in our struggles and in the shared comfort of this enduring spiritual truth. <3

I sincerely hope that your February was filled with moments of healing and progress, and I wish you an even more vibrant and healthful March!