by Feeling Great | Aug 10, 2023 | Mental Wellbeing
Food and Emotions: Do You Turn to Food for Comfort?
Understanding Emotional Eating and How to Overcome It
Emotional Eating? Do emotions influence your eating habits? Many people reach for food when feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. It is a common challenge that often leads to frustration and guilt. The cycle can feel endless, but with the right approach, you can break free and build healthier habits.
Do you ever reach for snacks when feeling stressed, bored, or overwhelmed? Emotional eating is a common struggle that often leads to frustration and guilt. The cycle can feel endless, but the good news is that you can break free. By recognizing triggers and adopting healthier coping strategies, you can regain control of your eating habits.
Why Emotional Eating Happens
For many, the connection between food and emotions starts in childhood. Parents may use snacks as a way to comfort, distract, or reward. Over time, this creates an emotional link to eating. As an adult, you might crave certain comfort foods simply because they remind you of happy memories.
Signs of Emotional Eating
- Eating when feeling stressed, sad, or anxious
- Craving specific comfort foods, even when full
- Feeling out of control around food
- Using food as a reward or distraction
4 Tips to Overcome Stress Eating
1. Identify Your Triggers to Emotional Eating
Keep a food and mood journal. Write down:
What you ate or craved
How you felt before eating
Your emotions after eating
Recognizing these patterns helps you make better choices.
2. Find Healthier Coping Strategies
Instead of turning to food, try:
Deep breathing to reduce stress
A short walk or stretching to reset
Calling a friend for support
3. Pause Before Eating
When cravings hit, wait five minutes. Distract yourself by:
Drinking water
Stepping outside
Doing a quick activity
Often, the urge will pass.
4. Build Healthy Lifestyle Habits
A strong body and balanced mind help reduce emotional eating. Focus on:
Regular exercise to manage stress
Quality sleep to support hormone balance
Meaningful social connections for emotional well-being
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Eating Habits
Emotional eating isn’t about willpower—it’s about awareness and balance. Small, mindful changes will help you develop a healthier relationship with food. Try these tips today and break free from the cycle for good!
If you want to read about how to Eliminate Stress, Read This.
If you would like further information or help to formulate a diet plan which will reduce the emotions and urge to Emotional Eating BOOK HERE
by Feeling Great | Aug 4, 2023 | Energy/Fatigue
10 Tips to Get More Energy Naturally
Feeling Drained? Here’s How to Regain Your Energy
Struggling to get through the day? Feeling exhausted, unmotivated, and overwhelmed? If your energy levels are running low, it’s time to take a step back and reset.
When I start feeling flat, I check in with myself. Often, I realize:
- I haven’t been kind to myself.
- My nutrition and time management are off.
- I’ve dropped my healthy habits.
- I have nothing exciting to look forward to.
- I’m focusing on what’s missing instead of what’s present.
The good news? Small changes can make a big impact. Here are 10 simple ways to naturally boost your energy.
1. Start Your Day Right
Mornings set the tone for the entire day. Create a morning routine that fuels your body and mind:
- Begin with deep breathing or meditation (10 minutes).
- Drink two large glasses of water.
- Move your body—run, stretch, or do Pilates.
- Fuel up with a green smoothie or protein-packed breakfast.
Start strong, and your day will follow suit.
2. Prepare Your Meals in Advance
Food fuels your energy, but unhealthy choices can leave you sluggish. Avoid last-minute meal decisions by prepping food in advance.
- Batch-cook soups like lentil, minestrone, or pumpkin.
- Make a green smoothie to sip throughout the day.
- Plan meals 48 hours ahead to stay on track.
Having nourishing meals ready to go means no excuses for poor food choices.
3. Spend Time Outdoors
Fresh air, natural light, and movement instantly boost energy. Whether it’s sunshine on your skin or the sound of waves crashing, nature resets your mind and body.
- Walk, jog, or cycle in a park.
- Stroll barefoot on the beach.
- Go for a bushwalk or a hike.
Even if it’s raining, throw on a jacket—it’s just water, not acid… haha!
4. Practice Daily Gratitude
Energy isn’t just physical—it’s mental too. Shifting your mindset to gratitude helps you feel lighter, happier, and more motivated.
- Write down five things you’re grateful for each day.
- Reflect on positive moments before bed.
- Keep a gratitude journal for 21 days and see the difference.
Even Oprah has done this for over 20 years!
5. Prioritize Self-Love
If you don’t value yourself, you won’t take care of yourself. Make time for self-care activities that fill your cup:
- Dance to your favorite music.
- Soak in a bath.
- Watch the sunset.
- Walk barefoot in the park.
When you love and respect yourself, you naturally make choices that boost your energy and well-being.
6. Strengthen Your Social Connections
Humans thrive on connection. If you’ve been feeling drained, consider how much time you spend engaging with others in meaningful ways.
- Join a sports club, book group, or creative class.
- Call or meet up with a friend for a deep conversation.
- Host a dinner or coffee catch-up.
Social bonds increase happiness and energy—make time for them!
7. Get Enough Sleep
Your body recharges at night, so getting quality sleep is essential. Aim to be in bed by 9:30 or 10 PM with a calming routine:
- Meditate or stretch.
- Read a book (not on a screen).
- Journal your thoughts.
Going to bed refreshed, not just exhausted, makes all the difference.
8. Take Breaks from Screens
Constant screen exposure drains your energy more than you realize. Set boundaries for electronics-free time:
- No screens after 9 PM (goodbye, scrolling).
- Take a weekend or full-day digital detox.
- Spend quiet time reading, thinking, or simply being.
Less screen time = more mental clarity and energy.
9. Stay Hydrated
Your body is 70% water, and dehydration leads to fatigue. Keep your energy high by:
- Drinking 2.5L of water daily (adjust for body size).
- Swapping coffee for herbal tea or clear soups.
- Cutting back on caffeinated drinks and alcohol.
Harvard Medical School confirms that water is the best performance booster—not pricey sports drinks!
10. Reduce Sugar Intake
Sugar isn’t just in candy—it’s in bread, pasta, rice, and processed foods. Too much can cause energy crashes and cravings.
- Swap chocolate for a healthy cacao drink.
- Choose fresh fruit over processed snacks.
- Increase protein intake (nuts, seeds, chicken, legumes) to keep blood sugar stable.
More savory foods like hummus, guacamole, and nuts will keep energy levels steady.
Boost Your Energy & Feel Amazing Again
Implementing even a few of these tips can make a huge difference. More energy means better focus, improved mood, and greater productivity.
If you need to read about Time Management Techniques? Read This!
Need help figuring out why your energy is low? Book a session CLICK HERE, and let’s get to the root of it.
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn
by Feeling Great | Aug 3, 2023 | Hormones, Weight Loss
Natural Remedies for Insulin Resistance
Tired, Hungry, Gaining Weight? Here’s How to Stop It for Good
Do you often feel exhausted, constantly hungry, or notice unwanted weight gain? Are your afternoons filled with energy crashes, or do you find yourself waking at night to use the bathroom? Maybe you’re feeling thirstier than usual?
These symptoms could be signs of insulin resistance—a condition affecting an estimated 500,000 Australians who don’t even realize they have it. Many people assume it’s just part of getting older and dismiss it. But here’s the truth: you can absolutely do something about it!
When your blood sugar is unbalanced, your body is at risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, weight gain, hormone imbalances, and more. The good news? Insulin resistance can be reversed naturally! Let’s break it down and explore simple, natural remedies that can help you regain your energy, balance your hormones, and feel amazing again.
What Is Insulin Resistance?
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps your body absorb glucose from the bloodstream and use it for energy.
But when you have insulin resistance, your cells stop responding to insulin properly. This means your body needs more insulin to do the same job. Over time, your pancreas works harder and harder—until it can’t keep up anymore.
When this happens, blood sugar levels rise, and you might start experiencing:
- Fat accumulating around your waist
- Constant tiredness and irritability
- Sugar cravings for biscuits, pasta, and sweets
- Achy joints and hormonal imbalances
- Higher risk of prediabetes, diabetes, and chronic health issues
Many people think insulin resistance appears suddenly. It doesn’t. It develops over time, often going unnoticed for years. The key is early awareness and taking action now!
What Causes Insulin Resistance?
Several factors contribute to insulin resistance, including:
- Eating too many sugary foods and refined carbs (cakes, pasta, bread, sweets, alcohol)
- Chronic stress that keeps blood sugar levels high
- Poor sleep that disrupts hormone balance
- Lack of physical activity
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Excess belly fat that increases inflammation
- Hormonal imbalances affecting your thyroid, adrenals, and sex hormones
The question is—can it be reversed? Absolutely!
Menopause & Insulin Resistance: The Hidden Link
Women going through perimenopause and menopause have a higher risk of developing insulin resistance due to fluctuating estrogen levels.
As estrogen shifts, it affects the entire endocrine system, making blood sugar levels harder to regulate. When combined with existing hormonal imbalances, this can create a perfect storm—leading to weight gain, fatigue, mood swings, and poor concentration.
But the great news is: balancing insulin naturally can help stabilize your hormones and relieve these frustrating symptoms!
Natural Remedies for Insulin Resistance
1. Balance Blood Sugar With Smart Eating
The best way to fight insulin resistance is through your diet. Focus on:
- Protein-rich meals (chicken, fish, eggs, tofu) to stabilize energy
- Healthy fats (avocados, olive oil, nuts) to keep you full longer
- Fiber-packed vegetables to slow blood sugar spikes
- Low-glycemic fruits (berries, apples) instead of sugary snacks
Avoid processed foods, white bread, pasta, sodas, and sugary treats!
2. Reduce Inflammation Naturally
Chronic inflammation makes insulin resistance worse. Combat it with:
- Turmeric & ginger—natural anti-inflammatories
- Omega-3 fatty acids—found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts
- Green tea & herbal teas—reduce oxidative stress
By cutting down inflammation, you help your body absorb insulin more effectively.
3. Prioritize Sleep & Stress Management
Lack of sleep increases stress hormones, which drive up blood sugar levels. Try:
- 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night
- Daily relaxation practices—like deep breathing, journaling, or meditation
- Cutting back on caffeine—especially in the afternoon
The more relaxed your body is, the better it can regulate insulin.
4. Move Your Body to Boost Insulin Sensitivity
Exercise forces your muscles to use glucose, making it one of the best ways to fight insulin resistance.
The best workouts include:
- Strength training (weights, resistance bands)
- Cardio (walking, cycling, dancing)
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
Pro tip: Exercising before eating can increase fat-burning and improve insulin sensitivity even faster!
5. Try Intermittent Fasting for Insulin Control
Fasting gives your body a break from constantly processing food, allowing insulin levels to drop naturally.
Best fasting methods for insulin resistance:
- 16:8 method—Eat within an 8-hour window, fast for 16 hours
- 5:2 diet—Eat normally for 5 days, reduce calories for 2 days
- 24-hour fasts—Done once or twice a week for a deeper reset
Many of my clients have seen dramatic improvements in energy and weight loss by adding intermittent fasting to their routine.
Take Control of Your Health—Starting Today!
Insulin resistance isn’t a life sentence. With the right strategies, you can balance your blood sugar, prevent diabetes, and feel amazing again.
If you’ve been struggling with weight gain, energy crashes, and sugar cravings—it’s time to take action.
💡 Need help creating a personalized plan? At Feeling Great Health Solutions, I specialize in holistic approaches to balancing blood sugar, improving energy, and optimizing overall wellness.
If you want to read about How to Stop Feeling Hungry All the Time? Click Here.
📅 Book a consultation today and let’s get you back to feeling your absolute best!
You deserve to feel fantastic every day!
by Feeling Great | Jul 26, 2023 | Personal Growth
Holistic Life – Create Balance and Find Fulfillment
Holistic Life Approach to Create Balance and Find Fulfillment! Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to juggle work, family, and personal time? Creating balance in life is essential for inner peace, happiness, and overall well-being. If you’re ready to bring more harmony into your daily routine, follow these 10 simple steps to regain control and feel more at ease.
10 Steps to Create Balance and Find Fulfillment in Holistic Life
1. Become Aware
Start by drawing a pie chart that represents different areas of your life—work, family, relaxation, play, and exercise. Then, create another chart based on how you want to distribute your time. Compare both versions and see where adjustments are needed.
2. Gain Insight
Identify the reasons behind your lack of balance. Instead of blaming external circumstances, focus on internal changes you can make.
3. Commit to Change
Pick the area that feels most off-balance and write down one actionable step to improve it. Tell a friend or family member to stay accountable.
4. Practice Gratitude
Spend a few minutes daily reflecting on what you appreciate in life. This shift in mindset helps you focus on abundance rather than what’s missing.
5. Prioritize Relaxation & Play
Schedule time for yourself every day. Whether it’s reading, walking, or simply unwinding, make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
6. Slow Down & Be Present
Choose one activity each day to do mindfully. Whether it’s eating, exercising, or having a conversation, give it your full attention.
7. Laugh More
Don’t take life too seriously! Laugh, have fun, and learn to let go of unnecessary stress.
8. Care for Your Body
Your physical health affects your mental well-being. Eat nutritious food, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation.
9. Surround Yourself with Positivity
Increase time with uplifting people and activities that energize you. Reduce time spent with those who drain your energy.
10. Set Boundaries & Prioritize Yourself
Learn to say “no” without guilt. Protecting your time and energy is essential for maintaining balance.
Create Balance and Find Fulfillment in Just 5 Minutes with Holistic Life Approach
Try this quick exercise to identify what truly matters in your life:
- Imagine your life as a blank canvas.
- Add only the things that are essential to your well-being.
- Slowly bring back other elements in order of importance. Leave out anything that causes stress or drains your energy.
Balance and Fulfillment is Just around the corner!
If you need any Relaxation Techniques? Read This! Need support in achieving balance? Book a session with a Holistic Life Coach today!
by Feeling Great | Jul 19, 2023 | Energy/Fatigue
Do You Have a Lack of Energy?
9 Common Energy Zappers & How to Let Them Go
Feeling exhausted? Lost your motivation? Struggling to get through the day? Lack of energy is a common issue, and you may not realize that certain habits are draining you. According to the Daily Mail, one in five people constantly feel tired and sluggish.
If you’re looking to boost your vitality, start by letting go of these nine energy zappers and replacing them with better habits.
1. Poor Sleep Habits
Sleep is non-negotiable for energy. Your body needs quality rest to recharge, heal, and function at its best. Find your ideal sleep duration and align it with your natural rhythm. Prioritize early nights, as the hours before midnight are the most restorative.
2. Processed Foods
Nutrient-poor, heavily processed foods drain energy instead of fueling your body. Instead, choose whole, real foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, nuts, and seeds. Need inspiration? Click here for recipe ideas!
3. Lack of Physical Activity
Movement boosts circulation, increases oxygen flow, and enhances mental clarity. Exercise also builds muscle, which strengthens your body’s energy production. Even 10 minutes of daily movement—whether walking, stretching, or strength training—makes a difference.
4. Dehydration
Your body is 70% water, and even slight dehydration slows you down. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, adjusting for exercise and climate. Enjoy herbal teas and broths in colder months, and limit dehydrating drinks like coffee and alcohol.
5. Overscheduling & No Downtime
A packed schedule leaves no room for relaxation or fun. Plan breaks into your day—walks, meditation, reading, or meeting uplifting friends. Time for self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential.
6. Shallow Breathing
Deep breathing is an instant energy booster. Shallow breaths limit oxygen intake, slowing your metabolism. Set a reminder to take 10 deep breaths several times daily. Your brain and body will thank you!
7. Negative Mindset
Your thoughts shape your energy levels. Instead of focusing on lack and stress, shift toward progress and gratitude. Set small, achievable goals and take daily steps toward them. Even imperfect action is better than procrastination.
8. Toxic Relationships
Spending time with draining, negative people can leave you emotionally exhausted. Limit interactions that deplete you and seek out positive, supportive relationships instead. Energy is contagious—choose wisely!
9. Nutrient Deficiencies & Health Issues
Constant fatigue, poor recovery, or body aches may signal underlying health issues. Check key nutrients like B12, iron, vitamin D, and thyroid function. If you need expert guidance, book a consultation today to get your energy back on track!
Ready to Reclaim Your Energy?
Start by making small changes and notice how your energy improves. Need extra support? Book a session and take the first step toward feeling vibrant, strong, and fully alive!
Want to Maintain Healthy Habits? Read This.