Embracing Wellness: My Top February Healing Favorites for a Balanced Life

Happy March, dear friends! As is often the case, February felt like it flew by in the blink of an eye. The shortest month of the year always brings a unique blend of rapid transitions and intense focus. While it might seem challenging to achieve significant milestones in just 28 (or 29) days, I’ve found that deliberate choices and essential tools can make all the difference on a healing journey. This past month was particularly pivotal for me, marking my first full immersion into a multifaceted work arrangement that includes Unbound Wellness, along with consulting and marketing ventures.

This new professional rhythm has been incredibly empowering, allowing me to channel more energy and creativity into Unbound Wellness. I’ve had the pleasure of developing new recipes and crafting posts that genuinely resonate with my passion for holistic health. A significant highlight was launching a free 30-day challenge and support group, designed to complement my e-book, The 30 Day Gut Healing Guide. This initiative is all about fostering a supportive community and providing practical resources for those navigating their gut healing journey, kicking off soon!

February also presented an unexpected challenge when I was struck by the flu. It was a complete setback, leaving me completely incapacitated for four crucial days—right before a planned work trip to Vegas. This experience underscored the importance of preparedness and having reliable healing tools at hand, especially when traveling. Navigating a busy schedule while recovering highlighted the need for efficiency and nourishment. Many of my favorite discoveries and essentials this month are directly tied to overcoming that illness and staying on track with my wellness goals, even on the go. Let’s dive into these game-changers, starting with a travel essential that truly saved the day!

1. My Portable Lunch Crockpot: A Travel & Wellness Essential

The timing of my flu couldn’t have been worse, leaving me barely recovered just hours before boarding a plane for a work conference. My appetite was still subdued, and the thought of navigating hotel food or struggling with meal prep while feeling weak was daunting. Typically, I’m a meticulous planner for such trips, but being bedridden all week meant zero prep time. The morning I left, a stroke of genius hit: I quickly batched two different bone broth-rich soups—a comforting carrot ginger and a creamy butternut squash sage—and froze them solid.

Bringing frozen liquids through airport security is a little-known travel hack that proved invaluable for maintaining my AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet. To keep these nourishing meals warm and ready, I packed my trusty portable lunch crockpot. This compact device doesn’t actually cook food from scratch; rather, it gently heats it to a safe temperature and keeps it warm, much like a traditional slow cooker. It typically takes about one to two hours to warm a meal, making it perfect for setting up in the morning and returning to a delicious, hot lunch.

This gadget was an absolute lifesaver during my trip. Each morning, I would simply plug it in with a frozen soup before leaving my hotel room. Returning for lunch, I was greeted with a perfectly warmed, wholesome meal that tasted homemade. This allowed me to avoid unhealthy airport or conference food and stay on track with my healing protocol, even when my body needed extra support. Beyond travel, it’s an excellent solution for anyone wanting to avoid microwaves at work, ensuring you always have access to a warm, nourishing meal. It’s truly an indispensable companion for AIP travelers and anyone committed to consistent healthy eating.

2. Embracing Acorn Squash & Lower-Starch Options for Gut Health

Another culinary favorite that emerged this month was acorn squash. Its versatility and subtly sweet flavor made it a staple in my diet. I even brought some roasted acorn squash with me for my conference trip, heating it in my lunch crockpot alongside cauliflower rice for a complete, satisfying meal. Throughout the month, I enjoyed it frequently as a simple yet delicious side dish. Winter squashes, like acorn squash, are a fantastic way to incorporate healthy carbohydrates into your diet, offering a slightly lower starch content compared to some other carb sources.

This focus on lower-starch carbohydrates wasn’t just about taste; it was a deliberate strategy to help balance my gut and stabilize my blood sugar levels. I consistently observe a significant positive shift in my digestion and hormone regulation when I moderate my intake of starchier carbs. When there’s an overgrowth of undesirable gut bacteria, as I know I’ve experienced, these bacteria tend to thrive on starches, exacerbating gut issues. By leaning into less starchy vegetables, I found my blood sugar levels to be much more stable and my digestive comfort greatly improved. This subtle dietary adjustment has truly made a profound difference in my overall well-being.

While this approach has been incredibly beneficial for me *right now*, it’s important to remember that dietary needs can evolve. My body is currently signaling a preference for this balance, and I’m committed to listening to its cues. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a permanent change, but rather an intuitive response to what supports my healing journey best in this moment. Exploring diverse vegetable options, especially those lower in starch, can be a powerful tool for anyone looking to fine-tune their gut health and energy balance.

3. The Nutrient Powerhouse: Indulging in Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon has long been a beloved indulgence of mine, and this month, I truly embraced it! As someone who still avoids whole eggs, smoked salmon remains my ultimate breakfast hero. Paired with vibrant veggies like crisp leeks and peppery arugula, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit, it creates a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying meal. It’s a delightful way to start the day, packed with flavor and healing nutrients.

Salmon, in general, is an exceptional healing food. It’s renowned for being nutrient-dense, brimming with healthy fats, and rich in anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These essential fats are crucial for reducing systemic inflammation, supporting brain health, and promoting cardiovascular wellness. Beyond Omega-3s, salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vital for tissue repair and satiety, as well as an array of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B12, and selenium. It was one of the first healing foods I truly fell in love with when I began my wellness journey, and to this day, it makes an appearance in some form almost every week.

While smoked salmon can be a bit of a splurge, I consider it a worthwhile investment in my health and happiness. Sometimes, treating yourself to high-quality, nutrient-rich foods is an essential part of self-care and maintaining motivation on a healing path. The benefits it offers to my body make it an indulgence I’m happy to prioritize.

4. Sea Snax: A Convenient & Thyroid-Supporting Snack

Another fantastic travel and on-the-go favorite that made my list this month is Sea Snax. I discovered these delightful seaweed snacks during my trip to Indonesia in December and have been hooked ever since. They offer a unique savory crunch and a wealth of nutritional benefits, making them an ideal choice for healthy snacking.

Seaweed is naturally rich in iodine, a critical mineral for supporting healthy thyroid function. The thyroid gland plays a central role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance. For individuals managing conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, it’s important to be mindful of iodine intake—sufficient amounts are necessary, but overdoing it can be counterproductive. A few sheets of Sea Snax here and there provide a beneficial dose of iodine without excess, making them a thoughtful addition to a balanced diet.

Beyond iodine, seaweed also offers a host of other minerals and trace elements, along with dietary fiber, which supports digestive health. Sea Snax are incredibly convenient to tuck into your purse or travel bag for a quick, wholesome veggie snack when hunger strikes. They are typically roasted in olive oil, giving them a rich flavor, though this can make them a bit messy. My advice? Just keep a napkin handy, and enjoy this delicious and nutritious snack!

5. Sweet Apricity Caramels: A Wholesome Treat in Moderation

On a healing journey, we all understand the importance of enjoying treats in moderation. However, there are moments when a little indulgence is not just desired, but truly needed for emotional well-being. This month, I found my perfect guilt-free treat in Sweet Apricity Caramels.

I had been seeing these caramels pop up all over social media, generating considerable excitement, so I was thrilled when I finally got to try them last month. What makes them truly special is their commitment to the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet, meaning they are free from common allergens and inflammatory ingredients. They are crafted with wholesome components like coconut and other natural ingredients, making them a safe and delicious option for those with dietary sensitivities. The meticulous ingredient selection ensures that even on a restrictive diet, you can enjoy a sweet moment without compromise.

The brilliance of Sweet Apricity Caramels also lies in their small, individually portioned size. This design makes it incredibly easy to enjoy just one caramel and feel satisfied, preventing the urge to overindulge or finish an entire bag. My non-AIP husband, typically discerning about “healthy” treats, was so enamored that he practically tore off the beautiful label and devoured over half the box! That’s a true testament to their deliciousness. Next time, I might have to find a secret hiding spot for them!

6. Favorite Healing Book: Namaslay by Candace Moore

After admiring her work for a considerable time, I finally invested in a copy of Namaslay by Candace Moore. Candace is the visionary creator behind Yoga By Candace, a platform renowned for its exceptional yoga videos and wellness content, which I’ve personally incorporated into my routine many times. Her approach to yoga is not just about physical postures but deeply integrated with holistic well-being.

What makes Candace’s story particularly compelling and inspiring is her unique and incredible healing journey. She successfully healed from chronic Lyme disease using the GAPS diet, a powerful testament to the body’s capacity for recovery with dedicated effort and the right approach. Her book, Namaslay, beautifully intertwines her personal healing narrative with comprehensive tutorials for various yoga poses, making it a valuable resource for both physical practice and mental resilience.

Yoga has played a monumental role in my own healing process. While I generally prefer the communal energy of studio classes, I am excited to delve deeper into Namaslay to enrich and expand my at-home yoga practice. The book offers a wonderful opportunity to explore different poses and deepen my understanding of yoga’s profound benefits, fostering greater flexibility, mindfulness, and a stronger connection to my body.

7. Favorite Healing Influencer: Jackie of Jack Attacks Life

For several months now, I’ve been an avid follower of Jackie of Jack Attacks Life (formerly Jack Attacks Arthritis), and I can honestly say she is one of the most inspirational, genuine, and hilariously relatable individuals I follow online. Jackie transparently documents her day-to-day experiences living with a myriad of challenges, including rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid cancer, anxiety, and the demands of parenthood. Her honesty and down-to-earth perspective make her journey incredibly relatable and her insights profoundly impactful.

What truly sets Jackie apart is her unwavering authenticity. She shares the raw, unfiltered realities of chronic illness with humor and grace, creating a space where many feel seen and understood. Her ability to find joy and laughter amidst adversity is truly contagious and serves as a powerful reminder that even in our struggles, connection and humor are vital.

This month, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Jackie in person! I knew she resided somewhere in a desert region, but it was a delightful surprise to discover, upon arriving in Vegas for my work trip, that she lived quite close to where I was staying. We were able to arrange dinner together, and I can confirm that she is just as wonderful, vibrant, and genuinely warm in person as she is online. If you’re looking for an influencer who will inspire you, make you laugh, and remind you that you’re not alone, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give her a follow.

8. Favorite Healing Verse: Psalm 23:4 – A Source of Comfort and Strength

“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 from Psalm 23 never fails to stir deep emotions within me. It speaks to a universal human experience, but resonates profoundly with anyone navigating a healing journey. There are countless moments on this path where it feels as though we are indeed walking through the “darkest valley.” Whether it’s the relentless fatigue, the frustrating dietary restrictions, the societal misunderstandings, or the sheer weight of chronic illness, our problems can sometimes feel ceaseless, threatening to pull us deeper into despair. It seems there’s *always* something new to contend with, and the path is rarely, if ever, easy.

However, this powerful verse serves as a constant, comforting reminder that even in those most challenging and desolate moments, we are never truly alone. The promise of a divine presence walking alongside us offers immense solace and strength. It acknowledges the existence of dark times and the bewildering questions that often accompany them—”Why can’t I just eat that pizza?” or “Why am I perpetually so exhausted?”—yet reassures us that support is always there. In a world where every individual faces their own unique set of struggles and adversities, this verse unites us in the shared human experience of needing guidance and comfort. It affirms that despite our problems, faith and connection can light the way through any valley we encounter. We *all* have problems in this world, but the comforting presence of a higher power offers unwavering solace and hope <3

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