Category: Self Care

  • Non Toxic Products Moms Want

    Non Toxic Products Moms Want

    Create a Healthier Home With These 5 Simple Non-Toxic Cleaning Swaps

    Non toxic? Have you ever cleaned your kitchen and then wondered why it smells more like a chemistry lab than a home? You’re not alone.

    Many of us grew up believing that if a cleaner smelled strong, it must be working. The stronger the smell, the cleaner the house, right?

    Not necessarily.

    More families are becoming aware of the ingredients in the products they use every day and looking for ways to reduce unnecessary chemical exposure in their homes.

    Non toxic? Consider this chart:

    IngredientCommonly Found InWhy Some People Avoid It
    PhthalatesFragrances, air fresheners, laundry productsMay contribute to indoor air pollution and have been studied for potential hormone-disrupting effects.
    ParabensPersonal care products, some cleanersUsed as preservatives and studied for possible hormone-related concerns.
    AmmoniaGlass cleaners, bathroom cleanersCan irritate the eyes, skin, nose, and lungs, especially in enclosed spaces.
    Chlorine BleachDisinfectants, laundry productsCan cause respiratory irritation and becomes particularly dangerous if mixed with ammonia or other cleaners.
    Formaldehyde-Releasing PreservativesSome cleaners, detergents, air freshenersCan contribute to indoor air pollution and may irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
    2-ButoxyethanolMulti-purpose cleaners, window cleanersMay cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract with prolonged exposure.
    Synthetic FragrancesAlmost everythingCan contain dozens or even hundreds of undisclosed ingredients and may trigger headaches or sensitivities in some individuals.
    Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)Disinfecting sprays and wipesMay irritate skin and lungs and have been studied for possible health concerns with repeated exposure.
    TriclosanOlder antibacterial productsHas been studied for environmental and hormone-related concerns.
    Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)Air fresheners, sprays, scented cleanersCan contribute to indoor air pollution and may trigger headaches or respiratory irritation.

    Non Toxic? The Ones Moms Usually Care About Most – these are TOXIC ones

    If I were writing for Women Encouragement, I’d focus on:

    1. Synthetic Fragrances

    Many women have no idea that “fragrance” can be a catch-all term.

    Zinger:

    “If a label says ‘fragrance,’ it doesn’t tell you what’s actually creating the scent.”


    2. Bleach

    Everyone knows bleach. Everyone understands it.


    3. Ammonia

    Especially because many moms have accidentally used products containing it.


    4. VOCs

    Which is basically a chemical lab of cleaning products

    Zinger:

    “A clean home shouldn’t require holding your breath.”

    Not everyone reacts to these ingredients the same way, and research continues to evolve. If you have concerns about a product, consult reliable sources and choose products that align with your family’s needs and preferences. Your home should be a place where your family can breathe easyโ€”not a place that smells clean but leaves everyone reaching for fresh air.


    Some Surprisingly Easy Swaps for Non Toxic Solutions

    Instead of:

    • Air fresheners โ†’ Open windows &/or diffuse quality essential oils
    • Heavily scented cleaners โ†’ Plant-based cleaners
    • Multiple specialty cleaners โ†’ One concentrated cleaner

    Zinger:

    “Sometimes the healthiest choice is simply using less.”


    The good news? You don’t have to throw everything away and become a homesteader overnight. Small changes can add up over time.

    The truth of the matter is that healthy living isn’t about perfection. It’s about better choices, one step at a time.

    Here are five simple swaps that can help create a healthier home.

    1. Swap Harsh All-Purpose Cleaners for Plant-Based Options that are Non Toxic

    Many conventional cleaners contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin, eyes, and airways.

    If you have children, pets, or family members with sensitivities, this can be especially important.

    Look for plant-based cleaners that effectively clean without unnecessary harsh ingredients.

    One of my favorite options is Young Living’s Thievesยฎ Household Cleaner because it’s highly concentrated, versatile, and can be used throughout the home when diluted properly.

    Zinger: Your home doesn’t have to smell like a chemistry lab to be clean.


    2. Open the Windows More Often, letting toxins out

    This one is free. Indoor air can sometimes contain more pollutants than outdoor air. Simply opening windows for a short period each day can help improve airflow and freshen your home naturally. Even a few minutes can make a difference.

    Zinger: Fresh air is one of the most overlooked wellness tools available.


    3. Swap Artificial Fragrances for Natural Scents that are non toxic

    Many products are designed to mask odors rather than address them.

    Instead of relying solely on heavily fragranced sprays, consider natural ways to freshen your space.

    Some families enjoy diffusing essential oils such as Lemon, Orange, or Purificationยฎ to create a fresh-smelling environment.

    A little goes a long way.

    Zinger: Covering a smell isn’t the same as creating a healthy environment.


    4. Reduce Disposable Cleaning Products for non toxic solutions

    Disposable wipes and single-use cleaning products can be convenient, but they can also add unnecessary waste and expense.

    Microfiber cloths, reusable cleaning towels, and concentrated cleaners often provide a more economical option over time.

    Bonus: you’ll likely save money. And who doesn’t love that?

    Zinger: Simple often beats complicated.


    5. Start Small Instead of Doing Everything at Once

    This may be the most important tip.

    Many women feel overwhelmed when they start learning about healthier living.

    They think they need to replace every product in the house immediately.

    Please don’t do that.

    Pick one thing. Then another. Progress beats perfection every single time. The goal isn’t to create stress, it is to create a healthier environment for the people you love.

    My Favorite Young Living Products for a Healthier HomeNon Toxic Options

    Young Living Products that are non toxic cleaners

    As I began making simple swaps in our home, I quickly realized I didn’t need dozens of products. In fact, fewer products often made life easier.

    These are three of my favorite Young Living products that I regularly use as part of our family’s healthy home routine.

    1. Thievesยฎ Household Cleaner

    Shows Thieves Household non toxic cleaner

    If I could only keep one cleaning product in my house, this would probably be it.

    Thieves Household Cleaner is a concentrated cleaner that can be diluted for multiple uses around the home. I use it on countertops, sinks, bathrooms, floors, and countless everyday messes. (Using a glass spray bottle is best).

    One bottle goes a surprisingly long way, which is great for the budget.

    Jenn’s Tip: I keep a spray bottle ready under the kitchen sink so cleaning is quick and convenient.


    2. Lemon Essential Oil

    Lemon essential oil

    There is something about the scent of lemon that simply feels clean.

    I love adding a few drops to a diffuser or using it as part of my cleaning routine to create a fresh-smelling environment. Dusting with lemon oil leaves a beautiful shine as well.

    The bright citrus aroma can help make cleaning feel a little less like a chore and a little more enjoyable. Mopping with a few drops on the scrubber, makes a wonderful addition as well.

    Jenn’s Tip: Diffuse Lemon while you’re cleaning for a naturally fresh atmosphere.


    3. Purificationยฎ Essential Oil Blend

    Purification oil blend

    Sometimes homes need a little extra freshening, especially with kids, pets, sports equipment, and all the other realities of family life. Thus, I put Purification in stinky shoes, and in the kitchen sink as needed.

    Purification has become one of my favorite blends for creating a fresh-smelling environment without relying on heavily fragranced products even in my car!

    A few drops in a diffuser can help freshen a room naturally.

    Jenn’s Tip: This is one of my go-to blends after a busy week when the house needs a little refresh especially before guests come over.


    The truth of the matter is that creating a healthier home doesn’t require perfection. It starts with simple choices and small changes over time.

    For our family, these products have become easy tools that fit naturally into a cleaner, simpler, and healthier home routine, aiding us in more non toxic choices.

    Ditch and Switch Naturally

    Final Thoughts

    Creating a healthier home doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or overwhelming. Start with one simple swap. Then build from there.

    Over time, those small changes can have a meaningful impact on your family’s environment. Remember: Healthy homes aren’t built in a day. They’re built one intentional choice at a time.

    I have friends who have waited for a major diagnosis before switching to healthier options. It makes me wonder if switching earlier may have eliminated what they are going through? Invest in health now. Being healthy makes life so much more enjoyable!

    Health is an investment

    Free Gift – non toxic ideas

    If you’d like additional ideas for creating a healthier home, grab my free guide:

    The Healthy Home Starter Checklist

    Inside you’ll find:

    • Easy non-toxic swaps
    • Room-by-room ideas
    • Budget-friendly tips
    • Family wellness suggestions

    Because healthy living should feel achievableโ€”not overwhelming.

    Zingers to Remember:

    • Your home doesn’t have to smell like a chemistry lab to be clean.
    • Fresh air is one of the most overlooked wellness tools available.
    • Covering a smell isn’t the same as creating a healthy environment.
    • Simple often beats complicated.
    • Progress beats perfection every single time.
    • Healthy homes are built one intentional choice at a time.

    Talk Soon,

    Jenn

    PS For more along these lines, please see this page and find what will naturally help your family.

  • Reduce Stress Naturally

    Reduce Stress Naturally

    How to Reduce Stress Naturally When Life Feels Like Too Much

    Reduce Stress? Simple Wellness Habits for Overwhelmed Women Over 40

    Woman stressed with baby sitting on counter of kitchen

    Stress? Do you ever feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders?

    Not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. You wake up tired, pushing through the day and still taking care of everyone else. Then you crawl into bed wondering why you feel so exhausted, overwhelmed, and unlike yourself.

    If that sounds familiar, friend, you are not alone. This is a WE issue. We all deal with the same things, even putting our pants on the same way – ha! Let’s find how to reduce stress naturally.

    Many women over 40 are carrying more responsibility than ever before:

    • raising children
    • caring for aging parents
    • managing careers
    • handling finances
    • supporting family members
    • navigating hormone changes
    • trying to stay healthy
    • balance online friends
    • keeping up with extended family
    • so many plates, in the air, at the same time.

    It’s a lot. So much for one person to carry.

    The good news is that stress doesn’t have to run the show. While we can’t eliminate every challenge in life, there are simple ways to support the body and mind naturally.

    Let’s talk about them.


    What Stress Can Look Like in Women Over 40 (Reducing Stress Naturally)

    Stress doesn’t always show up as feeling anxious. Sometimes it looks like:

    • exhaustion
    • brain fog
    • irritability
    • tension headaches
    • neck and shoulder tightness
    • poor sleep
    • sugar cravings
    • low motivation
    • feeling overwhelmed
    • waking up tired

    Many women assume something is wrong with them. But often, the body is simply responding to an extended season of pressure.

    The body keeps score. Which is why supporting your body matters.


    5 Natural Ways to Reduce Stress Naturally

    1. Get Outside Every Day

    Fresh air, sunlight, and movement are powerful.

    Even a 10-minute walk can help create a break from the constant demands of life. You don’t need a perfect fitness routine, moving is all that is needed.

    Try:

    • walking after dinner
    • sitting on the porch with your coffee
    • taking a quick walk around the block
    • stretching outside

    Small amounts count.


    2. Release Stress Stored in the Body

    Many women carry stress in their:

    • neck
    • shoulders
    • jaw
    • upper back

    Sound familiar?

    Try this simple stress reset:

    Doorway Stretch

    • Stand in a doorway.
    • Place your forearms on the door frame.
    • Gently lean forward.
    • Hold for 20โ€“30 seconds.

    Shoulder Rolls

    • Roll shoulders backward 10 times.
    • Take three slow deep breaths.

    You’d be amazed how much tension we carry without realizing it. Hopefully, not with arson (๐Ÿ˜‚).


    3. Create a 5-Minute Quiet Routine

    You do not need an hour-long morning routine.

    You need a few moments of peace.

    Ideas:

    • prayer
    • journaling
    • reading Scripture
    • deep breathing
    • gratitude journaling
    • sitting quietly with a cup of tea

    The goal is simple:

    Create a small pocket of calm before the world starts demanding things from you.


    4. Simplify Your Life with Systems

    One of the biggest stress reducers I’ve discovered is creating simple systems.

    Things like:

    • meal planning
    • laying out clothes the night before
    • keeping a family calendar
    • creating routines
    • using checklists

    Systems reduce decision fatigue. And less decision fatigue means less stress. This is one reason I often say: “You don’t need more hustle. You need better systems.


    5. Support Your Body’s Basic Needs

    Sometimes the biggest improvements come from the simplest habits.

    Focus on:

    • drinking enough water
    • eating protein throughout the day
    • getting quality sleep
    • reducing excessive caffeine
    • moving your body regularly

    These basics are often overlooked, but they matter tremendously.


    Wellness Tools I Personally Enjoy to Reduce stress Naturally

    As part of my wellness routine, I also enjoy incorporating plant-based wellness products alongside healthy habits.

    These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.

    Stress Away

    Many people enjoy Stress Away as part of a calming evening routine, during quiet time, or while winding down after a busy day.

    stress away

    NingXia Red

    NingXia Red is an antioxidant-rich beverage that many people enjoy as part of their daily wellness routine.

    NingXia Red Drink

    Sleepyize

    Many women prioritize healthy sleep habits as part of stress management and overall wellness support. Sleepyize is one tool some people choose to include in their evening routine.


    Deep Relief Roll-On

    After long days spent at a desk or caring for others, many people enjoy Deep Relief as part of a self-care and relaxation routine.

    essential oil roller for soreness

    Final Thoughts

    Friend, if life has felt heavy lately, I want you to hear this: we are carrying a lot. It seems like in our 40s-50s, it starts to catch up with us. Ugh.

    But, my heart and hope is that we find tools that enable us to thrive in this post. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is stop trying to push harder and start supporting yourself better.

    Stress may be a part of life. But it doesn’t have to define your life. Small daily habits matter. Simple support matters. And so do you. You are a gift, we all are.


    Download My Free Wellness Guide

    If you’re an overwhelmed woman looking for simple, realistic wellness habits that fit real life, I’d love to send you my free Wellness Guide.

    Wellness E Book Cover

    Inside you’ll discover:

    • simple wellness routines
    • hydration tips
    • stress-support habits
    • sleep-support ideas
    • plant-based wellness education
    • realistic strategies for busy women

    Download your free Wellness Guide today and start taking small steps toward feeling more like yourself again.

    In closing, for more on this subject; check out this blog post about 4 Kick Ace Ways to Bust Stress. For more holistic health strategies: check out this page full of solutions to different health and personal care challenges.

    I hope this gives you ideas how you too can reduce stress… naturally. Be blessed!

  • Rebounding Energy and Motivation Naturally After 40

    Rebounding Energy and Motivation Naturally After 40

    Why Have I Lost My Motivation and Energy? And Ways to Rebound Naturally

    Energy? Lacking. Motivation? Far gone. Here are Simple Ways to Support Your Body and Mind When You Feel Stuck

    Energy and Motivation? Say what?!?? Have you ever looked at your to-do list and thought: “I know what I should do… I just don’t have the energy to do it.” You aren’t alone.

    One of the most common struggles I hear from women over 40 is this: “I don’t feel like myself anymore.” They aren’t unmotivated, lacking discipline, and they aren’t lazy either. Typically, women our age are just exhausted. There is a huge difference!

    Many women spend years carrying:

    • careers
    • children
    • aging parents
    • financial responsibilities
    • household management
    • emotional labor
    • hormone changes
    • chronic stress
    • relationships
    Woman lacking energy and motivation

    Eventually the tank starts running low. The scary part? Many women assume they simply need to try harder. But often the issue isn’t motivation. It’s depletion.


    Motivation and Energy Are Not the Same Thing

    This may surprise you. Most people think motivation comes first. In reality, energy often comes first.

    When you’re:

    • exhausted
    • overwhelmed
    • stressed
    • under-slept
    • emotionally drained

    it’s difficult to feel motivated. Imagine trying to drive a car with no gas in the tank. That’s what many women are doing every day. They’re trying to create momentum from an empty tank. No wonder they feel stuck.


    Common Reasons Women Lose Motivation After 40

    There can be many reasons, including:

    • chronic stress
    • poor sleep
    • hormone fluctuations
    • decision fatigue
    • burnout
    • lack of movement
    • dehydration
    • blood sugar swings
    • emotional exhaustion
    • information overload

    Sometimes what feels like laziness is actually exhaustion. And exhaustion deserves support, not shame.


    5 Natural Ways to Support Motivation and Energy

    1. Stop Trying to Do Everything

    Many women are carrying enough responsibility for three people.

    One of the quickest ways to feel defeated is trying to tackle everything at once.

    Instead ask:

    “What is the next right thing?”

    Not:

    • next 20 things
    • next 50 things

    Just the next thing.

    Small wins build momentum.


    2. Move Before You Feel Like It

    This sounds backward. But waiting to feel motivated often doesn’t work. Movement creates momentum. I’ve started taking evening walks and it has increased my energy level exponentially. (Thank God!)

    Try:

    • a 10-minute walk
    • stretching
    • dancing to one song
    • a quick workout

    The goal is not perfection. The goal is movement. Action often creates motivation.


    3. Eat for Energy

    Many women accidentally fuel exhaustion.

    Examples:

    • coffee only
    • sugary breakfasts
    • skipping meals
    • grabbing processed snacks

    Instead focus on:

    • protein
    • healthy fats
    • fruits
    • vegetables
    • hydration

    Your body needs fuel.


    4. Reduce Decision Fatigue

    One reason I love systems is because they reduce mental clutter.

    Simple systems may include:

    • meal planning
    • weekly schedules
    • morning routines
    • evening routines
    • checklists

    Every decision you eliminate frees up mental energy. And mental energy matters.


    5. Celebrate Progress

    Many women are accomplishing amazing things but only focus on what’s left undone. Try ending each day by writing:

    Three things I did well today.

    That’s it.

    Momentum grows when we notice progress.


    Wellness Tools I Personally Enjoy

    As part of my wellness routine, I enjoy combining healthy lifestyle habits with supportive wellness products.

    These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.

    NingXia Red

    Many people enjoy NingXia Red as part of a daily wellness routine focused on nutrition and overall wellness support.

    NingXia Red Drink

    Super B

    B vitamins are commonly used as part of a healthy lifestyle focused on supporting energy production and overall wellness.


    Mineral Essence

    Hydration and mineral support are often overlooked when discussing energy and wellness.


    NingXia Nitro

    Many people enjoy NingXia Nitro as part of their morning routine when they need a little extra support for busy days.


    The Real Secret to Motivation

    The truth is:

    Most women don’t need more pressure. They need more support with extra grace and nurturing. Females like us tend to be so tough on ourselves. Self care, patience, and support go a very long way.

    More:

    • sleep
    • hydration
    • nourishment
    • movement
    • grace
    • healthy boundaries

    Less:

    • guilt
    • perfectionism
    • comparison
    • overwhelm

    Motivation is often a byproduct of feeling better. When your body has what it needs, showing up becomes easier.


    Final Thoughts

    Friend, if you’ve been feeling stuck lately, please know this:

    We sure aren’t lazy. We just might need to sleep a few more minutes in the morning, or squeeze in some self care here or there.

    My counselor has been telling me to say out loud to myself, “I am taking good care of you by eating this,” etc. By stating it out loud, I’ve noticed there is much more intention behind my actions.

    Try it. you might like it.

    Conclusion Recap:

    You may simply be carrying more than anyone realizes.

    Start small. Drink the water. Take the walk. Celebrate the win, no matter how small it might be. Build one simple habit at a time. Tiny steps create momentum. And momentum creates change. For more about Women’s Health, check out this post.

    Woman wondering why she's tired

    Download My Free Wellness Guide

    If you’re an overwhelmed woman looking for simple wellness habits that fit real life, I’d love to send you my free Wellness Guide.

    Inside you’ll discover:

    • stress-support habits
    • simple wellness routines
    • hydration tips
    • energy-support strategies
    • sleep-support ideas
    • realistic self-care for busy women

    Download your free Wellness Guide today and start taking small steps toward feeling more like yourself again.

  • Why Am I So Tired After I Sleep 8 Hours?

    Why Am I So Tired After I Sleep 8 Hours?

    Why Am I So Tired Even After Sleeping?

    The Hidden Reasons So Many Women Over 40 Feel Exhausted All the Time

    So Tired… Have you ever slept all nightโ€ฆ

    โ€ฆand STILL woke up feeling like you got hit by a bus?

    Yeah.
    Same.

    So many women over 40 are walking around absolutely exhausted right now.

    Not just โ€œbusy.โ€

    Deep-down tired.

    The kind of tired where:

    • coffee barely touches it
    • your body feels heavy
    • your brain feels foggy
    • you wake up exhausted
    • little tasks suddenly feel overwhelming


    Why Women Over 40 Often Feel Exhausted

    After 40, several things start shifting at once:

    • hormones fluctuate
    • sleep quality changes
    • stress increases
    • muscle mass decreases
    • blood sugar becomes more important
    • inflammation can rise
    • recovery slows down

    Add modern life on top of that:

    • screens
    • stress
    • processed foods
    • emotional overload
    • poor sleep habits
    • constant rushing

    โ€ฆand eventually the body starts waving a white flag.


    Common Causes of Exhaustion

    Many women dealing with exhaustion may also be struggling with:

    • chronic stress
    • nervous system overload
    • poor sleep quality
    • blood sugar swings
    • dehydration
    • inflammation
    • hormone changes
    • too much caffeine
    • lack of movement
    • poor recovery habits

    Our bodies are asking for more support, grace, rest, and white space.


    Holistic Wellness Habits That May Help Support Energy Naturally

    1. Hydrate Before Coffee

    Many women wake up dehydrated and immediately reach for caffeine.

    Try:
    โœ… water first
    โœ… minerals/electrolytes
    โœ… hydration throughout the day

    Hydration supports:

    • circulation
    • energy
    • digestion
    • wellness
    • healthy body function

    2. Eat Protein Earlier in the Day

    Many women accidentally start the day with:

    • sugar
    • pastries
    • carbs
    • coffee only

    Protein may help support:

    • energy stability
    • fullness
    • blood sugar balance
    • reduced crashes

    Simple options:

    • eggs
    • protein smoothies
    • Greek yogurt
    • turkey sausage

    3. Reduce Nervous System Overload

    Many women are not just physically tired.

    Theyโ€™re emotionally overloaded.

    Try:

    • stretching
    • walking
    • deep breathing
    • lower lights at night
    • less doom scrolling
    • short moments of quiet

    Tiny moments of calm matter more than people realize.


    4. Move Your Body Gently

    Movement supports:

    • circulation
    • mood
    • energy
    • sleep quality
    • stress reduction

    You do NOT need punishing workouts.

    Even:

    • walking
    • stretching
    • posture resets
    • light strength training

    can support wellness over time.


    Wellness Products I Personally Enjoy for Energy Support

    These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.


    NingXia Red

    Many people enjoy NingXia Red as part of a wellness-focused lifestyle for antioxidant and nutritional support.

    NingXia Red Drink

    Mineral Essence

    Mineral support may help support hydration and overall wellness habits. I know this is needed, I personally can’t stand the taste. I try to rub it on my feet. (Trying to be a good friend and share).


    Deep Relief Roll-On

    Many women enjoy Deep Relief after long stressful days filled with tension and screen time.


    Sleepyize

    Many people prioritize healthy evening routines and sleep-support habits as part of overall wellness support. I put this in my diffuser or rub it on my feet before bed, it is phenomenal! Hey, it’s safe for the kiddos too.


    Final Thoughts

    If youโ€™ve been feeling exhausted latelyโ€ฆ

    please know you are NOT alone.

    Many women are carrying:

    • stress
    • emotional overload
    • hormone shifts
    • poor recovery
    • nervous system exhaustion

    for years without realizing how much it impacts the body.

    Sometimes wellness starts with:

    • more water
    • more rest
    • more nourishment
    • more movement
    • less pressure
    • less perfection

    Tiny habits matter.

    And your body deserves support too.

    For more on this subject, check out my post about Winding Down at Night.


    Want My Free Wellness Guide?

    If youโ€™d like my simple Wellness Guide for overwhelmed women over 40, Click HERE to download it and get started on a brand new path of greater wellness – naturally!

  • Why Am I Craving Sugar All Day?  It’s not Willpower

    Why Am I Craving Sugar All Day? It’s not Willpower

    Sugar Cravings?


    Letโ€™s just say itโ€ฆ

    Youโ€™re doing โ€œfineโ€ all day.

    Then 2pm hits.

    And suddenly youโ€™re like:

    โ€œIf I donโ€™t eat something sweet right now, I may not survive.โ€ย 


    You try to resist by drinking water, then you distract yourself.
    But, open the pantry anyway.

    Sound familiar?


    The truth of the matter isโ€ฆ

    This is not a willpower problem.

    It is your body trying to tell you something.

    Most women are blaming themselves for something that is actuallyย biological.

    Insulin Process


    Whatโ€™s really going on?

    Letโ€™s keep this simple.

    There are usuallyย 4 big reasonsย youโ€™re craving sugar all day:


    1. Blood sugar rollercoaster

    If your day looks like:

    • coffee
    • quick carbs
    • skipping meals

    Your blood sugar goes:

    โฌ†๏ธ spike
    โฌ‡๏ธ crash
    โฌ†๏ธ spike
    โฌ‡๏ธ crash

    Blood sugar roller coaster

    And your body says:

    โ€œWe need sugar NOW.โ€


    2. Youโ€™re under-eating proteinย 

    Most moms are running on:

    • carbs
    • snacks
    • whatever is left on their kidโ€™s plateย 

    Cravings throughout the day

    Protein helps stabilize energy.

    Without it?

    *cravings increase
    *energy drops


    3. Youโ€™re exhaustedย 

    Research shows:

    Poor sleep can increase hunger hormones and cravings

    When your body is tired, it looks for:

    *fast energy
    *aka sugar


    4. Stress is running the showย 

    Stress does not just live in your head.

    It affects:

    • blood sugar
    • hormones
    • energy

    Rollercoaster cravings

    And it often leads to:

    *emotional eating
    *quick cravings
    *โ€œI just need somethingโ€ moments, or hours of bingeing. ย I’ve been there, especially late at night (not my best moments).


    What research actually shows

    • Blood sugar swings are linked to increased hunger and cravings
    • Sleep deprivation can increase appetite and desire for high-calorie foods
    • Chronic stress is associated with increased snacking and sugar intake

    Sleep Affects Cravings

    Translation:

    This is your body trying to keep up.

    Science behind cravings and sleep


    So what actually helps?

    Not cutting sugar completely.

    Or โ€œbeing more disciplined.โ€

    And absolutely not ย starting over every Monday.

    You need:

    Simple daily support that stabilizes your body


    My simple craving support routine

    This is what I personally focus on:


    1. Protein first

    Before coffee if possible.

    Even something small helps.

    Ideas: Look at Legendary protein products, spoon full of peanut butter, a perfect bar (first thing in the morning).


    2. Donโ€™t skip meals

    I know. We all do it.

    But it almost always backfires later.

    PS I have friends getting Factor meals and the like to have meals ready at all times to fix this problem. ย This answer is currently out of my budget, but just sharing in case it will help you. =)


    3. Move your body (just a little)

    Even a 10-minute walk helps regulate blood sugar.

    These gadgets are helping me do this, even when it rains:

    I try to do any one of these for about ten to fifteen minutes after each meal as often as possible. ย 

    Getting old, sigh.


    4. Add daily support

    This is where I personally use
    Young Livingย Balance & Burn

    Not as a โ€œfix.โ€

    But as part of a simple routine that supports:

    • metabolism
    • energy
    • healthy blood sugar already in the normal range

    I like it because itโ€™s easy.

    No complicated plan, it’s a small addition to my morning routine.

    Just one piece of a bigger system (if you call my methodic daily rhythm a system – ha!)…


    What this IS

    *Support.
    * Simplicity.
    *Something you can actually stick with. ย Yay us! ย Hit the Easy Button.


    FAQ: Sugar Cravings & Daily Support


    Why am I craving sugar all the time?

    Often itโ€™s due to:

    • blood sugar swings
    • lack of protein
    • poor sleep
    • stress

    Sleep and cravings


    Are sugar cravings a sign of something wrong?

    Not necessarily.

    • Theyโ€™re usually a signal that your body needs:
      More stability
      More fuel
      More rest

    Sugar Cravings


    Can supplements help cravings?

    They can support your routine.

    But they work best when combined with:

    • balanced meals
    • hydration
    • movement

    Do I need to cut out sugar completely?

    No.

    That usually leads to more cravings later.

    Focus on:
    balance, not restriction.


    How long does it take to see a difference?

    Small shifts can happen quickly.

    • But real change comes from:
      consistency over time
    • Less spikes
    • More stability
    • Fewer cravings

    Tools That Can Help:

    Young Living Options for Daily Blood Sugar Support

    Letโ€™s keep this real.

    No product replaces:

    • balanced meals
    • protein + fiber
    • sleep
    • movement

    Butโ€ฆ

    Some tools canย support your routineย and make it easier to stay consistent.

    See some testimonials:

    testimonial Balance and Burn

    Testimonials balance and burn

    Testimonial Balance and Burn


    Balance & Burn

    Balance and Burn Power Duo

    Where it fits: daily foundation

    • supports metabolism
    • supports healthy blood sugar already in the normal range
    • easy to take (drink or capsules)

    Final thought

    Remember as we close, you are not lacking discipline.

    You are likely lackingย support + stability.

    And the best part?

    You donโ€™t have to overhaul your entire life.

    Start small.

    Stay consistent.

    NingXia Red

    ย 

    Ningxia Red!
    6 Benefits of Drinking Ningxia Red

    Ningxia Red is what I crave currently. ย I drink it, and it puts a huge clamp on cravings. ย This also supports nine systems in the body. ย I will never be without my Ningxia Red, I pray.

    Where it fits: daily energy + consistency

    Let me be honestโ€ฆ

    A lot of cravings arenโ€™t just about sugar.


    Theyโ€™re about:

    • ย low energy
    • running on fumes
    • your body looking for a quick boost

    Thatโ€™s where I personally like adding something simple in the morning.

    NingXia Redย is a daily antioxidant drink made with wolfberry and other plant-based ingredients.

    I donโ€™t use it as a โ€œfix.โ€

    I use it asย supportย for:

    • steady energy
    • daily nutrition
    • helping me not feel like Iโ€™m crashing by mid-afternoon (I drink it after lunch and sometimes in the morning as well).

    And when your energy feels more stableโ€ฆ
    cravings tend to feel less intense. ย Winner!!


    How I use it

    • 1โ€“2 oz in the morning
    • sometimes another small serving mid-day
    • paired with protein (this matters)

    Real talk

    Itโ€™s one piece of a bigger picture:

    • protein
    • hydration
    • rhythm
    • daily support

    If you want to try it

    You can grab it here:

    Get Yours HERE


    Simple way to think about it

    Not:

    โŒ โ€œthis stops cravingsโ€

    But:

    โ€œthis supports my energy so I donโ€™t feel like I need sugar to survive the afternoonโ€ย 


    Want help getting started?

    I put together a simple:

    3-Day Craving Reset Checklist

    It walks you through exactly what to do (without overthinking).

    Get your Guide HERE.


    Ask any and all questions, I’m honored to help you.


    โš ๏ธ Disclaimer

    This is for general wellness support and not medical advice.

    For another quick read, similar to this, check out THIS POST ON HORMONES.

  • Why Am I So Tired Even After Sleeping? (For Moms Who Feel Drained All Day)

    Why Am I So Tired Even After Sleeping? (For Moms Who Feel Drained All Day)

    Tired? Letโ€™s just say it out loudโ€ฆ You slept. Not perfectly.
    But enough. And yetโ€ฆ

    • You wake up tired
    • You hit a wall by 2pm
    • You feel like you need a nap just to survive dinner

    What is going on??

    So many mom friends wear “Tired,” like a badge of honor. In America, it feels like a pull to burn the candle at both ends. Hustle culture screams, “Jam, more into the day.”

    Have you noticed this or is it just me? Busy is another bragging right. My take is that if we are constantly on, no matter why rested is a rare commodity.


    The truth of the matter isโ€ฆ

    Youโ€™re not broken, definitely not a slacker…

    And noโ€ฆ you donโ€™t just โ€œneed more sleep.โ€

    Something much deeper may be going on.

    Cough, cough: slow down. Read a book, rock in a rocking chair. Maybe even sip tea! Think of our grandparents and great grandparents generations. They weren’t stressed like this generation tends to be…


    Why you feel tired even after sleeping (big possibility)…

    Letโ€™s keep this simple. There are usually 5 main reasons:


    1. Your body never actually relaxed. You may have sleptโ€ฆ

    But your body stayed in stress mode all night. I think this one may just be an epidemic.

    This is the โ€œtired but wiredโ€ cycle, the kind where you never get into the restorative rest our bodies need.

    Signs:

    Waking between 2:00-4:00am to. pee

    Waking to check your phone in the middle of the night, “Hello. Addiction?”

    Rolling around, slightly sleeping, while actively focusing thoughts on a real life matter…

    Research shows chronic stress can disrupt sleep quality
    โ€”even if youโ€™re technically asleep. Totally sucks. Been there, done that. Ugh.


    2. Blood sugar swings. If your blood sugar is all over the place:

    • you crash mid-day
    • you feel shaky or foggy
    • your energy is unstable

    This is HUGE for moms. Especially the ones who cram food in while driving, often do not get a whole meal, etc.

    Let me just say with a son with Type 1 Diabetes, protein is our friend in this situation. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar.


    3. Hormone shifts. Especially if youโ€™re in:

    • your 30s
    • your 40s
    • or beyond

    Hormones can affect:

    • sleep quality
    • energy
    • mood

    Even subtle shifts can leave you feeling drained.

    Signs like:

    • Acne
    • Night sweats
    • Painful cycles
    • Awful PMS
    • Weight gain or loss for no reason
    • Difficulty maintaining warmth

    4. Poor sleep quality (not just quantity) – this is similar to the #1.

    You can sleep 8 hourโ€ฆbut if itโ€™s broken, light, or restless?

    You wake up exhausted, sadly. According to sleep research, quality matters more than just hours.

    A 2016 review published in the journal Sleep stated:

    โ€œSleep quality may be just as important, if not more important, than sleep duration in predicting future health.โ€ 


    5. No daily rhythm

    Your body LOVES patterns. But most of us are:

    • skipping meals
    • staying up late
    • overstimulated all day
    • differing bed times and wake times
    • grazing throughout the day

    No rhythm = no steady energy


    Quick reality check (this matters)

    • Over 60% of women report ongoing fatigue
    • Sleep issues affect millions of adults regularly
    • Stress is one of the top contributors to poor energy

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ You are not alone in this.


    So what actually helps?

    Not a 27-step routine. Not more supplements thrown at the problem.

    You need: simple daily signals your body can recognize.


    Start with THIS (simple shift)

    Before you try to โ€œfix your whole lifeโ€โ€ฆ Start with your evening. Because if your body never winds downโ€ฆ tomorrow will feel the same.


    โœจ 3 simple things to try tonight

    1. Lower stimulation before bed

    • dim lights
    • put your phone away
    • reduce noise

    2. Give your body a calming signal

    This is where I personally use
    Young Livingย Stress Awayย or Peace and Calming

    They aren’t a magic fixโ€ฆ. Just as a consistent cue, that, โ€œWeโ€™re done for the day.โ€


    3. Clear your brain

    Write down:

    • your top 3 priorities for tomorrow

    Thatโ€™s it.


    ๐Ÿ’ก Why this works

    Your body responds to patterns.

    When you repeat the same signals:

    • your brain learns to relax faster
    • your sleep improves
    • your energy improves

    FAQ (quick answers)

    Why am I tired even after 8 hours of sleep?

    Because sleep quality, stress, and hormones matter more than just hours.


    Can stress really make me this tired?

    Yes. Chronic stress can impact sleep, energy, and mood.


    Is this a hormone problem?

    Sometimes. Especially in perimenopause or menopause.


    Do I need supplements?

    Not always.

    Start with:

    • sleep
    • rhythm
    • stress support

    Then layer in support if needed.


    Will this fix everything overnight?

    No.

    But it will start shifting things in the right direction.

    Essential Oils for Stress, Sleep & Feeling Tired. FAQs


    Do essential oils actually help with stress and relaxation?

    They can support relaxation as part of a routine.

    Certain scents (like lavender) have been studied for their calming effects, and many people use essential oils as a sensory cue to help the body wind down.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Theyโ€™re not a treatment or cure
    ๐Ÿ‘‰ But they can be a helpful tool alongside good habits


    How do essential oils help you relax?

    Your sense of smell is directly connected to the part of your brain that processes emotion and memory.

    That means:

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ when you pair a calming scent with a routine
    ๐Ÿ‘‰ your brain starts to associate that scent with โ€œtime to relaxโ€

    Over time, this can help your body shift into a calmer state more easily.

    How smells affect our brain

    Where should I apply essential oils for stress support?

    Most people use diluted oils on:

    • wrists
    • back of neck
    • shoulders
    • chest (upper area)

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Avoid eyes, face, and sensitive areas
    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Always follow proper dilution guidelines

    Woman smelling where brain lights up

    Can I use essential oils without applying them to my skin?

    Yes.

    Many people prefer:

    Diffusing is especially helpful for creating aย calm environment at night.


    Should I use essential oils every night?

    Consistency matters more than intensity.

    Using the same scent regularly can help your body recognize:

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ โ€œthis is my wind-down timeโ€

    Many people use oils nightly as part of a simple routine.


    Is it safe to use oils undiluted (โ€œneatโ€)?

    Itโ€™s generally safer to dilute.

    Undiluted oils can:

    • irritate skin
    • increase sensitivity over time

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ A carrier oil (like coconut oil) is a good option
    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Patch testing is always smart


    What if I have a reaction to an oil?

    Stop using it.

    • wash the area gently
    • avoid reapplying
    • monitor symptoms

    If irritation continues or worsens, contact a healthcare professional.


    Are essential oils enough to fix my sleep or stress?

    No. But, they can be a huge support! Everyone who uses essential oils and holistic products have different experiences and stories to tell.

    They work best as part of a system, not a standalone fix.

    Think of them as:

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ a support tool
    ๐Ÿ‘‰ not the whole solution


    Which essential oils are best for relaxation?

    Many people reach for calming oils like:

    The best one is the one you will use consistently.


    Person smelling internal view

    De-Stress Toolbox (Simple + Real-Life)

    This is your โ€œkeep it simpleโ€ system. Simple gets done much more often than complicated.

    Just tools that support your body.


    Your Simple De-Stress Routine

    1. Evening signal (non-negotiable)

    Use a calming scent at the same time each night.

    I personally use:
    Young Livingย Stress Away
    or
    Peace and Calming.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ This becomes your bodyโ€™s โ€œweโ€™re doneโ€ signal


    2. Diffuser at night

    Add a few drops to a diffuser while you wind down.

    Helps:

    • create a calm environment
    • reduce stimulation
    • support routine consistency

    3. On-the-go reset

    Keep a roller with you.

    Apply to:

    • wrists
    • neck

    Take a slow breath.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Quick reset during stressful moments


    4. Pair with simple habits

    This is where most people miss it.

    Use oils WITH:

    • dim lights
    • less screen time
    • slow breathing
    • writing tomorrowโ€™s top 3 tasks

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ That combo is what works


    5. Keep it consistent

    Donโ€™t switch oils every night.

    Pick one.

    Stick with it.

    Let your body learn the pattern.


    In Conclusion

    You donโ€™t need a brand new life to feel better. For goodness sake, make the most of the Beautiful, Loving Life you have been given. Savor each day because truly it is a gift. In addition to gratitude,

    You need:

    • small systems
    • repeated daily
    • that your body can trust

    Want help getting started?

    I made this super simple.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ A 5-Minute Evening Reset for Stressed Moms

    So you donโ€™t have to think at night.

    Just follow it.

    Download it HERE.


    Or comment RESET and Iโ€™ll send it to you.


    โš ๏ธ Disclaimer

    This is for general wellness support and is not medical advice.

    Final Word of Encouragement

    Friends, life can be fast moving! I still can’t believe most of my kids are adults.

    Let’s take the time to really wind down at night. Take a bath. Read the book. Put on a fan (this helps me sleep so much). Fill the diffuser before turning off the lights.

    Life is so much sweeter when we are rested. Joy fills my heart much more when I’m not battling fatigue.

    Invest in our futures by getting proper rest. The best is yet to be together: you and me. We are stronger, together. Better: together.

    Major Study on Sleep Regularity + Longer Life

    A 2024 study published in the journal Sleep found that:

    Sleep regularity was a stronger predictor of mortality risk than sleep duration.

    In plain English:

    People with more regular, higher-quality sleep patterns tended to live longer than people with irregular sleep schedules.

    Adults with regular sleep schedules and sufficient sleep had a 39% lower mortality risk than people with irregular and insufficient sleep. 

    For more on this subject, check out: THIS POST. Thanks for you stopping by today.

    Talk soon,

    Jenn

  • A Simple Evening Routine for Stressed Moms (When Your Brain Wonโ€™t Shut Off)

    A Simple Evening Routine for Stressed Moms (When Your Brain Wonโ€™t Shut Off)

    Stress Away? Stress: Letโ€™s just call it what it isโ€ฆ

    We finally sit down at nightโ€ฆ
    and instead of relaxingโ€ฆ

    Our brain is like:

    โ€œHey. Now that youโ€™re stillโ€ฆ
    letโ€™s replay everything you didnโ€™t finish today.โ€

    or

    “Hey, let’s rethink every conversation from every angle.”

    Cool. Love that for us.


    The truth of the matter isโ€ฆ

    We aren’t bad at relaxing,

    We are just overloaded, over stimulated, over responsible.

    All. Day. Long.

    We are:

    • answering questions
    • solving problems
    • breaking up fights
    • remembering everything for everyone
    • and somehow still trying to drink water and be a kind human

    Itโ€™s a lot.

    So when the house gets quiet?

    Our body is tiredโ€ฆ
    but our brain is still clocked in. Sadly.


    So what do we actually do about it?

    Not a 27-step routine.

    Not something youโ€™ll quit in 2 days.

    Weโ€™re doing a 5-minute evening routine for stressed moms
    that actually fits real life.

    Messy life. Loud life. Mom life.


    ๐ŸŒ™ Your 5-Minute Reset (real life version)

    1. Turn the world down (1 minute)

    No big speech here.

    Just:

    • turn off bright lights
    • put your phone on silent
    • stop the input

    We are basically telling our brain:

    โ€œThe show is over. Go home.โ€


    2. Give your body a signal (1 minute)

    Your body needs a cue that itโ€™s safe to relax.

    This is where I personally use
    Young Living Stress Away

    Not because itโ€™s magic.

    But because itโ€™s consistent.

    • roll it on wrists
    • smell it
    • take a slow breath

    Done.

    It becomes your brainโ€™s little signal of:

    โ€œOhโ€ฆ weโ€™re winding down now.โ€


    3. Fix your shoulders (becauseโ€ฆ yikes) (1โ€“2 minutes)

    Be honestโ€ฆ

    Your shoulders are somewhere near your ears right now, arenโ€™t they?

    Try this:

    • roll them back slowly
    • stretch your neck side to side
    • unclench your jaw (this one gets me every time)

    Youโ€™re not working out.

    Youโ€™re just telling your body:

    โ€œYou can let go now.โ€


    4. Get tomorrow out of your head (1 minute)

    THIS is the big one.

    Grab anything โ€” notebook, receipt, random paper.

    Write down:

    • your top 3 priorities for tomorrow

    Not 15.

    Not your entire life plan.

    Just 3.

    Because your brain doesnโ€™t need more pressureโ€ฆ
    it needs closure.


    5. Finally, Sit like a normal human (30 seconds)

    No phone.

    No scrolling.

    No โ€œjust one more thing.โ€

    Just sit.

    I knowโ€ฆ groundbreaking.

    But this is where your body actually catches up.

    Awe, doesn’t this feel better?


    Why this works (and why most routines donโ€™t)

    Because this isnโ€™t about becoming a different person.

    This is about giving your nervous system a pattern.

    Same steps. Same order. Same signal.

    After a few nights, your brain starts to recognize:

    โ€œOhโ€ฆ this means weโ€™re done.โ€

    And THAT is when you finally start to relax at night as a mom.


    Letโ€™s talk about the oil real quick

    You donโ€™t need anything fancy to do this.

    You really donโ€™t.

    Butโ€ฆ

    Scent is one of the fastest ways to calm your body.

    Thatโ€™s why I use Young Living Stress Away

    Not as a miracle.

    Just as a simple, repeatable cue.

    And honestly?

    As momsโ€ฆ we need simple. I used this oil in my mini mom mobile vents when the kids were all crying waiting in the drive through line. It’s a keeper!


    If youโ€™re overwhelmed right nowโ€ฆ

    Start tonight.

    Not Monday.
    Not when life slows down (lolโ€ฆ right).

    Tonight.

    Even if you only do 2 steps.

    Even if your kids interrupt you 3 times.

    Even if itโ€™s messy.

    Progress over perfect. Always.

    My tid bit: I don’t do this wind down routine anymore. Nope. I just put oils on my feet and in my diffuser, and that’s all she wrote: I am out – for the count.

    Even with menopause, now post menopause – I sleep hard, and good!


    Want this in a super simple cheat sheet?

    Because I know you donโ€™t want to remember all this at 9:47pm ๐Ÿ™‚

    I made a quick โ€œEvening Resetโ€ you can follow step-by-step.

    Grab it here:

    Or comment RESET and Iโ€™ll send it to you.


    Final thought

    You donโ€™t need a new life to feel better, your sweet life here and now is better than you know.

    You need small systems that work inside your current life.

    This is one of them.

    And the best part?

    It takes less time than scrolling your phone.

  • You Didnโ€™t Fail. You Were Overwhelmed.

    You Didnโ€™t Fail. You Were Overwhelmed.

    You Didn’t Failย 

    We didn’t fail. ย We are all just overwhelmed at times. ย So many choices to choose from. ย Too many shiny objects glistening for our attention. ย It brings confusion, self doubt, and the question, “Is that going to be better than what I have?”

    If youโ€™ve spent money trying to figure out how to make money onlineโ€ฆ

    and it still hasnโ€™t workedโ€ฆ

    I need you to hear this:

    You didnโ€™t fail.

    You were overwhelmed. ย And to this I say, “Me too.” ย Been there. ย Done that.


    You Didn’t Fail at Trying

    You tried to follow programs and “solutions” that:

    ย 

      • required more time than you have

      • expected more energy than you can give

      • and assumed your life was quieter than it actually is
    • ย 
      • not to mention, you’d make way more money faster than even came close to being reality.

    Ouch.

    I know it hurts. ย Getting zero back from thousands invested stings. ย 

    Thatโ€™s not your fault.

    Thatโ€™s a mismatch.ย 

    (And honestly, there may be a method to get what you’ve invested back many times over. ย Stick around for more on that later. ย If you are really curious: message me any time.)


    You Didn’t Fail at Programs

    Most programs are built for people who can:

    ย 

      • sit and focus for hours

      • test things all day

      • think strategically without interruption
    • ย 
      • (These aren’t real people. ย At least not moms with little kids and lives outside of their phones and laptops.)

    Thatโ€™s not most moms (none that I know)!


    Fail? ย And Get Back Up – Smarter. ย Stronger.

    So what happens?

    You try.
    You get inconsistent.
    You feel behind.
    You start to question yourself.

    Insert the snow ball effect. ย The lapses keep compounding until quitting is the easiest or even just putting the “course” in the background and moving forward. ย Sound familiar?


    But hereโ€™s the truth:

    You donโ€™t need another course.

    You need:

    ย 

      • fewer steps

      • clearer direction (clarity is crucial)

      • something you can repeat on your hardest day

    And here is where we try again with our new smarts and strengths.


    Failing To Simplify

    I’m talking about something simple enough to follow even when youโ€™re tired.

    Simple strategies that make it easy to operate even on hard days. ย Think simple checklists, Daily Mission Operations, with emphasis on Income Producing Activities. ย Imagine waking up with clarity, knowing exactly what to do!


    Succeeding with Simple!

    Thatโ€™s what Iโ€™m building right now.

    Not perfect.
    Not fancy.

    Just real systems that work in real life. ย This isn’t fluff. ย If you’d like I will send you a simple list of 10 systems the simply implement today.


    And if youโ€™re still hereโ€ฆ still tryingโ€ฆ

    That means something. ย Youโ€™re not done. ย You just havenโ€™t had the right structure yet.


    Stay.

    Weโ€™ll figure it out together. ย I have ideas galore and if they worked for me: a single mom with 4 kids, (three that needed extra help)… you can do it too. ย 

    So stick around. ย The BEST is yet to come! ย Questions? ย Put them in the comments below. ย I’m here for you.

    Make sure to subscribe to my email, and you’ll receive my free E Book, 9 Streams of Income Working From Home. ย This resource is customized to you! ย 

    For more information along this topic, check out this post.ย 

    If you are feeling the Over Achiever rising up and want more, check out this book!


  • Overwhelmed Isnโ€™t a Personality Trait โ€” Itโ€™s a Nervous System State

    Overwhelmed Isnโ€™t a Personality Trait โ€” Itโ€™s a Nervous System State

    Overwhelm is often a nervous system state, not a character flaw. This article aims to assist readers in calming the overwhelm with actionable results we all can take to see progress.

    Overwhelmed? How does the Nervous System Play a Part?

    Overwhelmed often shows up as the nervous system is in Flight or Fight. When our nervous system is calm: it is in Rest and Regulated.

    The nervous system includes: energy levels, mood, hormones, focus and decision making. Physically, the anatomy includes the brain and spinal cord. Then it includes nerves and ganglia (think cables connecting it all).

    Next, there is the Somatic Nervous System (Voluntary)

    This system is under your conscious control.ย It allows you to move your skeletal musclesโ€”like when you decide to wave your hand or walk to the store.+1

    Autonomic Nervous System (Involuntary)

    This system runs on “autopilot.”ย It handles things you don’t think about, like digestion and your heartbeat.ย It is further divided into two famous responses:

    Parasympathetic:ย Theย “Rest and Regulated”ย response.ย It calms you down and helps your body recover.

    Sympathetic:ย Theย “Fight or Flight”ย response.ย It revs you up during stress (faster heart rate, dilated pupils).

    The entire system is built from two types of specialized cells:

    • Neurons (Nerve Cells):ย The stars of the show.ย They transmit the electrical signals.ย Each has a cell body,ย dendrites(to receive signals), and anย axonย (to send signals).+2
    • Glia (Glial Cells):ย The “support crew.”ย They protect, nourish, and insulate the neurons so they can work efficiently

    Signs Our Nervous System is Dysregulated

    I’ve been in relationships that have been so hard on my nervous system. Symptoms include:

    • Feeling overwhelmed easily
    • Constant fatigue
    • Irritability
    • Anxiety
    • Brain fog
    • Trouble sleeping
    • Feeling emotionally reactive
    • Difficulty focusing or completing tasks

    These are way too common in my life. (These also sound like perimenopause – yikes).

    Why Mom’s Are Especially Vulnerable

    Mom’s experience this more for many reasons. Think:

    • Constant responsibility
    • Lack of rest
    • Mental load
    • Hormonal shifts
    • Lack of support
    • Chronic multitasking
    • Solving So Many Mysteries

    For many of us, we have experienced the inability to accomplish much at all and there are reasons for this:

    You cannot build clarity, income, or stability from a disregulated state ย Calm nervous systems make better decisions

    Regulation increases capacity, focus, and resilience. So now, let’s explore ways to get regulated and diminish the overwhelm.

    Simple Daily Practices That Support Nervous System Regulation

    Morning:

    • Avoid phone immediately
    • Get sunlight
    • Hydrate

    Throughout the day:

    • Slow breathing
    • Gentle movement
    • Taking breaks

    Evening:

    • Reduce stimulation
    • Calm environment
    • Consistent sleep schedule

    Focus on consistency, not perfection.

    Personal Story:

    After my husband left me in a very overwhelming, chaotic marriage. I found my days braced for impact. My nervous system was on high alert constantly.

    Reading the Bible was such a life line. Tapping helped. I practiced grounding at least daily. But what helped the very most is my small tweak that I added to my morning routine.

    Every morning, I start by applying Frankincense Essential oil to the bottoms of my feet, along with Ground oil blend. This assisted me in relaxing.

    What made an even bigger impact, is putting relaxing oils in the diffuser at night. Waking up feeling more rested is wonderful.

    My nervous system is improved as I speak positive affirmations forth daily. The mantra of my life is that my best days are ahead.

    Practicing nervous system regulating has such great benefits. It is very worth all of the hard work (Five years of trauma therapy weekly).

    Benefits of Regulating the Nervous System

    For one, I feel more relaxed. My shoulders aren’t up by my ears anymore. Being able to smile and enjoy is such a blessing.

    Clarity is a huge deal to me. Used to, my past, trauma, and shame kept me under a heavy weight. The constant chaos with overwhelm is gone. Thank God!

    My emotions are much more stable. It feels not fixating on every challenge. Not lashing out at others in adverse circumstances feel very positive (for those around me to). Stable emotions have helped me trust myself again as well. ย I’m human, I still mess up at times; stability is normal for me now.

    Energy is better. I believe because I am not focused on all the things out of my control anymore. Overwhelm sometimes consists of things we can’t control, doesn’t it?

    Without the cloud of a disregulated nervous system, I can make decisions much easier. Leadership is something I’m more prepared for.

    Recap:

    Yes, getting out from under Nervous Dysregulation takes so much effort, the breakthrough is worth it! Consistency over perfection. Lately, when I am dysregulated, I’ve been grabbing lavender oil and smelling it in the cups of my hands. It helps me within seconds.

    Remember, we are not broken. Nervous system disregulation occurs for many reasons. Regulating is a learned skill. Small steps create real change. Make sure to give ourselves grace. We are human. Perfection is too high of a goal.

    What is your “go to,” when you are off? I’d love to hear in the comments below. What do you have to say about this subject? Let’s learn together. We are stronger together, better together.

    Conclusion:

    When the nervous system is more regulated, everything becomes easier. Decision making is more automated. Clarity increases. Confidence grows. This is where real change begins.

    For more on this topic, check out: This Post. Once you are more regulated, you can start building multiple streams of income. If you are interested, download my Discover Your $1,000.00 a Month Income Ideas.

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  • From Burnout to Balance: Systems Over Stress

    From Burnout to Balance: Systems Over Stress

    Burnout to Balance: this should help you get your breath. Systems over stress are about strategies that bring order above chaos. ย This is my story.

    How It Started: Burnout

    I was in burnout, trying to build Women Encouragement while working 40 plus hours a week. Burning the candle at both ends can last on adrenaline and grit for a time, but over months and years; burnout is inevitable.

    I kept the sprint for about fifteen months, but then hit a wall… hard. Health problems started to plague my body. Being prompt was blowing out the window. Delay seemed to be the heavy cloud over my head.

    Multi tasking until the wee hours of the morning to only do it again the next day, ushered in depression. We can’t give, what we don’t have. Running on empty steals. It causes clenched jaws, shoulders at the ears, and numbness.

    Burnout to Balance

    The Good Lord brought me systems over stress. I wanted to keep the ever running energizer bunny mode on. God thought otherwise.

    I quit a very chaotic environmental job. I had another position lined up, but they (four days before my start date) rescinded my acceptance letter. For four glorious months, I have been able to concentrate on systems over stress. I can not exaggerate how much I needed the past 160 days of down time.

    Burnout to Balance

    At first the hamster wheel was my comfort. I didn’t have a clue as to life off of it. If I wasn’t selling, creating, doing something – what was there to do?

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    Slowly the onion peeled. Our culture tells us to grind harder. We are exhausted and ashamed of it, so we try so hard to appear rested. The burnout is real.

    After about two weeks I finally noticed me quietly picking up books again, baking, and watching shows just for fun. I was suddenly allowed to be me!

    Burnout to Balance

    Not everyone gets a job lapse. So, let me share some strategies that evade the burnout, bringing balance.

    Balanced Mornings

    First, the morning routine truly is the Secret Sauce from going from Burn out to Balance. I just finished the 5 AM Club, which was a strange little read. However, the morning schedule shared in the book is sunshine.

    Taking the morning to center, calm, meditate, exercise, and read is a huge game changer. Don’t knock it until you try it. This one small system was the quickest savior from the Hamster Wheel.

    Balanced Email Systems

    Secondly,

    Burnout to Balance is helpful in having an email strategy that rescues us from overwhelm (who doesn’t have a full inbox?). It can save hours of searching, struggling, trying to make it make sense. You can find more about this strategy: HERE

    Balanced by Time Blocking

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    Thirdly,

    Burnout to Balance happened when I started time blocking. Good bye multitasking. Hello focused attention on one thing. This allows me to stay in the zone without feeling spread thin (where much of burnout comes from).

    Time blockers help me with an uptick of production as well. When I was cramming it all in while working 40 plus hours a week, I felt so scattered, it was tough to find results anywhere.

    Balanced Planning

    Fourth,

    From Burnout to Balance, I strongly suggest making a plan. By making a plan before the next day, I wake up with intention. There is no half a$$ing a day. I know what needs to be accomplished for things to move forward.

    This keeps me from coasting. Having a few things written down or typed in my phone, keeps me from channel surfing or doom scrolling.

    This resource might help you as well. ย I wrote it, and it contains two systems for content creation. ย Check it out HERE.

    Balanced with Social Media Strategy

    Lastly,

    Burnout to Balance: social media edition… have a plan in place. I now keep a huge monthly calendar of content creation on my bedroom wall. This keeps me from throwing social media content out there and praying it works (giving me a concrete plan). Utilizing this system combats burnout because I have a reference point to implement instead of constant fretting over what might work, what should I post today, etc.

    I sit down with the AI masters (Gemini, Chat gpt) and figure it out with them. These sit down sessions are almost always under an hour. This alone gives me such great guardrails for what I’m doing on the webbernets. I strongly suggest this yourself.

    How do you know if you are burned out? Great question. I made a list of the symptoms of burnout. You can download it: (complete the form at the bottom of this post).

    Balance:

    To recover from Burnout, I found I needed more sleep. I’m talking about hibernation level rest. My body craved it hard. Give yourself permission to rest to recover from burnout.

    Slowly add some systems to your day. This keeps chaos at bay. I find hustle culture breeds chaos like rabbits breed bunnies (it happens quickly). When we have systems in order, they act as the net below the acrobats at the circus to keep us safe.

    Sometimes, people pull on me to break out of systems. I respond, “Sorry, I’m booked at that time.” Systems are much like boundaries: they keep the good in and the evil at bay.

    My Burnout/Balance Story

    It took me about a full thirty days to feel truly me again. If you don’t have thirty days: I encourage you to take breaks. Give yourself micro vacations to walk outside. Drink your favorite beverage. Eat some favorites. Savor the good in life. Self care as much as possible. In time we will be off the hamster wheel. It is just a matter of time.

    If you’d like more along these lines, meet me for my Zoom, Mondays at 7:00pm called the Mom Reset. It’s quick, under 45 minutes and will bring a breath of fresh air to us all. Comment below for the link.

    What have done to get out of burnout? ย I’d love to hear what worked for you. ย Let’s cheer each other on, celebrating each other! ย Be blessed

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