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After a brief hiatus, I am thrilled to bring back my popular “Monthly Healing Favorites” series! The past couple of months have been an incredible whirlwind, filled with significant life changes that required my full attention. From navigating the festive holiday season to embarking on a meaningful ministry trip to Indonesia, and then making the monumental decision to leave my full-time job to wholeheartedly pursue my passion with Unbound Wellness – it’s been a period of immense growth and transformation. But now, with a renewed sense of purpose and focus, I’m excited to dive back into sharing the products, practices, and perspectives that are truly making a difference in my personal healing journey.
January truly set an amazing tone for the year. This month marked my official transition into dedicating more of my time and energy to Unbound Wellness, allowing me to pour my heart into this community. A major milestone was the successful launch of the 30 Day Gut Healing Guide, a project years in the making! On a personal note, I celebrated my two-year wedding anniversary with my wonderful “Hipster Husband,” and together, we embraced the fresh start that a new year always brings. As someone navigating a lifelong journey with Hashimoto’s, I am perpetually exploring and implementing various strategies to support my health. It’s an ongoing process of learning, adapting, and finding what truly resonates with my body and spirit. This past month has been particularly fruitful in discovering new gems that have positively impacted my well-being. Here’s a closer look at some of my top January healing favorites…
Coyo Coconut Yogurt: A Delicious Dairy-Free Gut Healer
For many years, like countless others, I was a huge fan of Greek yogurt. It seemed to be the ubiquitous health food championed by every women’s magazine – often alongside popcorn and hummus – as the ultimate trifecta for a healthy, slim physique. However, my understanding of true health evolved significantly, especially as I delved deeper into managing Hashimoto’s and healing my gut. It’s only been a couple of years since I completely eliminated dairy from my diet, a step that, while challenging initially, proved to be one of the most transformative for my digestion. The difference in my gut comfort and overall well-being was profound. Yet, I confess, I genuinely missed the creamy texture and versatility of yogurt… until I discovered Coyo Coconut Yogurt!
Coyo stands out as an exceptional brand of coconut yogurt, distinguished by its commitment to clean ingredients. It contains zero added sugars and unnecessary fillers, instead offering a rich source of healthy fats and an array of delightful flavors. I’ve become absolutely obsessed with incorporating Coyo into my daily routine. It’s a fantastic addition to my morning smoothies, lending a beautiful creaminess and a boost of beneficial fats. It also serves as a perfect, guilt-free treat when topped with fresh berries. Beyond its delicious taste and satisfying texture, Coyo is a fermented food, which makes it an incredible ally for gut health. Fermented foods are packed with probiotics, essential for supporting a diverse and thriving gut microbiome – a cornerstone of overall wellness, especially when managing autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s. It’s a win-win-win: a delicious, versatile, and deeply healing food!
While Coyo was once a sporadic find at specialty stores like Central Market, I’m thrilled to report that I’m starting to see it appear more frequently at Natural Grocers, making this gut-friendly staple much more accessible. This growing availability is fantastic news for anyone seeking high-quality, dairy-free alternatives to support their digestive health and overall wellness journey.
Vital Proteins Collagen: The Versatile Wellness Powerhouse
By now, you’ve likely heard the buzz around Vital Proteins Collagen – and for good reason! This supplement has gained widespread popularity, becoming a staple in the wellness community, and its benefits are truly undeniable. Sourced from grass-fed bovine, collagen is an incredible healing food that offers comprehensive support for various bodily systems. It plays a crucial role in promoting the health of our gut lining, which is paramount for anyone dealing with autoimmune conditions or digestive issues. Beyond gut health, collagen is a building block for strong joints, promoting flexibility and reducing discomfort. It also contributes significantly to radiant skin, stronger nails, and healthier hair – truly an all-around beauty and wellness booster from within.
I integrate Vital Proteins Collagen into my diet in multiple ways. It’s a consistent addition to my daily smoothies, seamlessly blending in without altering the taste or texture. However, it gained a bit of “fame” (or at least, significant shared enthusiasm!) when I featured it in my Collagen Protein Cookies recipe, which launched this very month! The response to those cookies was incredible, with many of you sharing photos of your delicious creations. It’s a testament to how easily and delightfully collagen can be incorporated into even your favorite baked goods. Embracing grass-fed collagen has been a game-changer for my overall vitality, supporting my body’s natural healing processes from the inside out. Three cheers for collagen – a true hero in the pursuit of holistic health!
Castor Oil Packs: An Ancient Detoxification Secret
If you’re one of my wellness clients, there’s a high probability you’ve heard me sing the praises of Castor Oil Packs. That’s because they truly are a healing powerhouse – safe, incredibly easy to implement, and remarkably effective. The therapeutic use of castor oil dates back to ancient civilizations, including Ancient Egypt, where it was revered for its medicinal properties. Applied topically, castor oil works by penetrating the skin to enhance blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system, which in turn significantly aids the body’s natural detoxification processes.
For my personal healing journey, I regularly place a castor oil pack over my liver and gallbladder area. I am actively working on optimizing my gallbladder function, and the effects of these packs are astonishingly palpable. Within approximately 30 minutes of application, I can literally hear and feel subtle movements in that region, indicating improved circulation and activity. It’s an amazing, almost magical sensation that reassures me the process is working. To perform a castor oil pack, you’ll need organic, cold-pressed castor oil, a piece of flannel cloth (preferably organic cotton or wool), and a heat source like a hot water bottle or heating pad. Saturate the flannel with castor oil, apply it to the desired area (typically over the liver, which is on the upper right side of your abdomen), cover with plastic wrap to protect clothing, and then place the heat source on top. Relax for 45-60 minutes. Not only are the physiological benefits profound, but the ritual itself offers a wonderful excuse to simply lie down, de-stress, and indulge in an hour of peaceful self-care. This dedicated quiet time is healing in its own right, promoting relaxation and reducing the chronic stress that can exacerbate autoimmune conditions. For a comprehensive visual guide, here’s a helpful video on how to properly apply one. Incorporating castor oil packs into my routine has been a truly supportive practice for my detoxification pathways and overall well-being.
EarthPaste Natural Toothpaste: A Foundation of Clean Living
Embracing a truly holistic healing lifestyle extends far beyond the food on our plates. It encompasses everything we put on and in our bodies, including personal care products. It’s taken me some time to systematically transition my personal care routine and makeup to cleaner, non-toxic alternatives, but one of the most significant switches I’ve made recently is to Earthpaste Natural Toothpaste. Conventional toothpastes often contain a cocktail of undesirable ingredients, including fluoride, artificial colors, harsh foaming agents, and synthetic flavors. For someone committed to reducing their toxic load and supporting their thyroid health, these ingredients are simply not compatible with a healing philosophy. Fluoride, in particular, has been a contentious topic in the health community, with many wellness advocates suggesting it can negatively impact thyroid function and overall endocrine balance.
Earthpaste, on the other hand, boasts an exceptionally clean ingredient list. It’s entirely free of fluoride, artificial dyes, glycerin, and other questionable additives. Its formulation relies on natural minerals like bentonite clay, sea salt, and essential oils to effectively clean teeth and support oral health. While it may not deliver that intensely “uber minty fresh” sensation often associated with conventional brands, it certainly gets the job done – leaving my teeth feeling clean and my mouth refreshed in a natural way. More importantly, using Earthpaste provides me with immense peace of mind, knowing that I’m not introducing potentially harmful chemicals into my body every single day. This simple yet powerful switch is a crucial step in maintaining a truly non-toxic home environment and supporting my body’s innate healing capabilities.
100 Percent Pure Eyeliner: Beauty Without Compromise
In the realm of clean beauty, 100 Percent Pure has long been my go-to brand, a name I’ve frequently championed for its commitment to natural, fruit-pigmented cosmetics. And their eyeliner, specifically the Long Last Liquid Eyeliner, absolutely lives up to the brand’s sterling reputation. I was fortunate enough to receive this as a Christmas gift, and I’ve been utterly delighted with its performance and clean formulation. What makes this eyeliner truly exceptional is its natural pigment – the rich black color is derived from black tea, not synthetic dyes or carbon black, which can be irritating. The applicator is also brilliantly designed, allowing for precise and effortless application, whether you prefer a subtle line or a more dramatic wing.
For years, I used a conventional eyeliner that, while effective in terms of application and staying power, contained parabens and a host of other “nasties” that I honestly prefer not to dwell on now. The shift to clean beauty products is a fundamental aspect of my holistic wellness approach, as many traditional cosmetics are laden with endocrine disruptors and carcinogens that can compromise overall health, especially for those with sensitive systems or autoimmune conditions. This 100 Percent Pure eyeliner proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality or performance when choosing safer, cleaner options. It offers comparable staying power and ease of application to its conventional counterparts but provides the invaluable benefit of being a much cleaner, healthier choice for my skin and body. It’s a true win for conscious beauty.
My Dorky Avocado Hat: A Touch of Joy for Healing
This next favorite might seem a little unconventional or “random” in the context of typical healing recommendations, but trust me when I say it holds significant value in my personal book of wellness: my dorky avocado hat! Sometimes, healing isn’t just about supplements or specific diets; it’s about cultivating joy, comfort, and emotional well-being. Last December, I embarked on a solo ministry trip to Indonesia, a journey that made me quite nervous about traveling so far alone. In my peculiar logic, I decided what a woman traveling solo to Indonesia truly needed was… a hat! Not just any hat, but the cutest, most comforting hat I could find to serve as my personal security blanket for the trip. And thus, this utterly adorable avocado hat entered my life.
The simple act of wearing this hat brings me so much happiness, and that joy, in itself, is incredibly healing. Laughter and lightheartedness are powerful antidotes to stress, and reducing stress is a critical component of managing autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s. This hat serves as a delightful reminder not to take life too seriously and to embrace the little things that bring a smile to my face. Even now, long after my Indonesia trip, it remains a beloved accessory. I wear it on walks, when I’m grocery shopping, or just running errands around town on days when I simply don’t feel like fussing with my hair. It’s a symbol of comfort, a source of quiet amusement, and a testament to how small, seemingly insignificant items can contribute profoundly to our emotional health and overall sense of well-being. Never underestimate the healing power of a good, dorky hat!
Favorite Healing Workout: CorePower Yoga for Mind and Body
My yoga journey has become an indispensable part of managing and healing my Hashimoto’s, and it’s a topic I plan to delve into more deeply in future posts. For now, know that I absolutely adore it and find it profoundly effective for both stress reduction and incorporating essential movement into my life. For over a year, I had found a wonderful yoga studio in Dallas that felt like home. However, after my husband and I moved into our new house last summer, the commute to my old studio became incredibly inconvenient, leading to a significant drop in my attendance. The search for a new yoga sanctuary proved challenging, and for some inexplicable reason, I was adamantly resistant to trying CorePower Yoga. This month, however, I finally caved and decided to give it a try. The verdict? I am officially hooked!
CorePower Yoga offers a unique and dynamic blend of traditional yoga principles, the detoxifying heat of hot yoga, and invigorating, higher-intensity strength-building sequences. This diverse approach provides a comprehensive workout that nurtures both body and mind. They boast an extensive schedule with tons of classes throughout the day, and the studio location is incredibly convenient for me, which has been a major factor in my consistent attendance. I tend to carry a significant amount of stress and tension in my neck and shoulders, a common ailment for many, and especially for those with autoimmune conditions where inflammation can exacerbate muscle tightness. After increasing my frequency at CorePower this month, I’ve noticed a remarkable improvement in my range of motion and a significant reduction in discomfort in these areas. The active, yet mindful, practice helps release physical tension and promotes mental clarity. The only real “catch” for me is the price point; it’s definitely an investment! I’m still deliberating on committing to a full membership, but I promise to keep you all updated on my decision. In the meantime, it’s an absolutely amazing drop-in option that I highly recommend for anyone looking to incorporate effective, stress-reducing movement into their healing routine.
Favorite Healing Influencer/Blog: Nutrition Stripped – Inspiring Holistic Wellness
While not strictly a 100% “Paleo” or Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) focused blog, I have developed a profound appreciation and admiration for Nutrition Stripped. In a world saturated with health information, McKell Hill’s platform stands out for its warm, inviting, and aesthetically pleasing approach to holistic wellness. It’s a beautifully curated space that, despite not adhering to every specific dietary guideline I follow, consistently offers a wealth of incredibly healing recipes, insightful resources, and genuinely inspiring content. What truly captivates me about Nutrition Stripped is its overarching philosophy of nourishing the body, mind, and spirit with wholesome, unprocessed foods and mindful practices. McKell’s approach is gentle yet empowering, focusing on intuitive eating and a positive relationship with food, which is a breath of fresh air.
I particularly enjoy following McKell on Instagram, where her visual content and daily insights provide consistent inspiration. Her Golden Milk Recipe, in particular, is an absolute favorite of mine. It’s a comforting, anti-inflammatory elixir that I often turn to for its warming properties and immune-boosting benefits. Nutrition Stripped proves that you don’t have to fit into a rigid dietary box to find incredible value and inspiration in the wellness space. It’s a testament to the fact that healing is multifaceted and can be approached from various angles, always with an emphasis on nutrient-dense foods, mindful living, and a joyful exploration of what makes you feel your best. Her work consistently reminds me that delicious food and genuine well-being can go hand-in-hand.
Favorite Words of Wisdom: John 6:27 – A Balanced Perspective on Health
“Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you…” John 6:27 ESV
In the often-intense world of health and healing, it’s incredibly easy to become consumed by the pursuit of perfect health. I openly admit that I, too, can fall into this trap. We often conjure up a vision of a perfect utopia: a life where our autoimmune antibodies are finally at bay, where we can reintroduce nightshades without consequence, or where we’ve achieved optimal gut flora through endless protocols. While I unequivocally believe that the pursuit of health and healing is profoundly worthwhile and, indeed, necessary – we are, after all, given this life for a purpose, and being healthier and happier undoubtedly equips us to better fulfill that purpose – it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective. So, please understand, I am absolutely not suggesting that efforts towards health are fruitless; they are immensely important.
However, this verse serves as a powerful anchor for grounding that pursuit. It reminds me that no matter how diligently I manage my Hashimoto’s antibodies, how many castor oil packs I apply, or how much collagen I consume, my physical health is ultimately a temporary gift. One day, whether at 98 years old from natural causes or sooner, my earthly health will inevitably decline. It is, in the biblical sense, “food that perishes.” This profound truth compels me to regularly check in with myself, ensuring that my entire life isn’t solely defined by or consumed with the pursuit of physical well-being. While health is important, and I firmly believe God cares deeply about our health, all worldly things are transient. John 6:27 articulates this perfectly, offering a much-needed reminder to invest in what is eternal. This doesn’t negate the value of living a healthy lifestyle; rather, it places it within a larger, more meaningful context. It encourages me to strive for physical wellness not as an end in itself, but as a means to live out my purpose more fully, while always remembering the ultimate source of enduring life and healing.
Even though I may never be completely “healed” of autoimmunity in a conventional sense – a reality many living with chronic conditions understand – I continue to embrace this healing lifestyle with conviction. This unwavering commitment is fueled by the assurance that I am eternally healed through the boundless grace of God, providing a peace that transcends any physical limitation.
Favorite On Unbound Wellness in January: The Launch of the 30 Day Gut Healing Guide!
Without a doubt, my absolute favorite achievement on Unbound Wellness this January was the release of my very first solo book, a true labor of love and a passion project for my soul: the 30 Day Gut Healing Guide! This comprehensive guide represents years of my personal experience, tireless research, and deep dedication to understanding and implementing effective gut healing strategies. The journey to its creation was extensive; it took me half a year alone to meticulously write, photograph, and produce every single element of it, building upon a foundation of knowledge cultivated over many more years.
The guide is designed to be an all-encompassing resource for anyone looking to embark on a journey towards better digestive health. It’s packed with extensive information on the science behind gut healing, practical strategies to implement, 30 days of carefully curated meal plans to take the guesswork out of eating, convenient shopping lists to simplify grocery runs, invaluable pre-guides to set you up for success, and a collection of delicious, gut-friendly recipes. The response to this “baby book” has been nothing short of humbling and absolutely amazing! Thousands of you have already embraced your copies, bravely stepping forward to begin your own transformative healing journeys. To my immense joy and gratitude, even some of my personal wellness heroes and respected figures in the functional health community, such as Mickey Trescott and Sarah, The Paleo Mom, have shown incredible support and love for the book. I am truly overwhelmed with joy, love, and immense gratitude for this incredible reception. If you haven’t yet, I wholeheartedly invite you to grab your copy here and start your own path to a healthier gut and a more vibrant life.
Thank you for taking the time to connect with me and explore my January favorites, folks! Here’s to a February filled with continued healing, growth, and wellness in every aspect of our lives. <3