What are your non-negotiable morning rituals Before Life Happens?

Before even getting out of bed, I take five deep breaths, inhaling and exhaling to a count of six. This simple ritual, part of my routine for years, helps me tap into my morning, even after a night of little sleep (new mama life). It's an effective and free way to support a regulated nervous system.

Every morning, I gently wash my face with cleanser, brush my hair, and drink at least 16 ounces of room-temperature water, often with a pinch of salt to support my adrenals and hydration levels. Then, I brush my teeth to help remove plaque and bacteria, and set the tone for a fresh day. I typically wake up hungry and never skip breakfast. As an active person, I value breakfast as one of the most important meals to keep my metabolism high. I boil water for pour-over coffee and begin breakfast prep. It might not sound super fancy, but I love a slice of artisanal local whole-grain sourdough topped with a thick spread of peanut butter, banana, hemp seeds, and a pinch of sea salt.

Before having my daughter, I used to journal and meditate each morning. Now, with her crawling around, I find it more challenging. Instead, I’ve adopted the habit of reading a couple of short poems by Mary Oliver. It's a brilliant way to engage my mind similarly to journaling, and it allows me to keep an eye on my little mover!

With such a diverse skill set (nutritionist, chef and healer) how do you blend your talents to create unique culinary experiences that promote well-being?

Blending my skills as a nutritionist, chef, and healer lets me create unique culinary experiences that promote well-being in a fun and holistic way. As a nutritionist, I make sure every meal is packed with the right nutrients and tailored to support individual health needs. This knowledge guides my menu planning and ingredient choices, ensuring each dish is both delicious and good for you.

My passion for cooking brings creativity to the kitchen, where I turn healthy farm ingredients into tasty, visually appealing meals. I love experimenting with flavours, textures, and cooking techniques to make nutritious food enjoyable.

As a healer and pranayama breath coach, I incorporate mindfulness and relaxation into my culinary experiences. Whether it's guiding mindful eating sessions, integrating breathing exercises for better digestion, or creating a calming atmosphere during meals, I aim to support both physical and mental well-being.