Category: mental-health

Beyond the Diet

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Cooking, Drink More Water, Food, Gut Health, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Holistic & Integrated Approaches, Integrative Health, Longevity Wellness, mental-health, Mind/Body Connection, Natural Solutions, Small Joys, Stop Drinking Soda, Uncategorized
Nourishing food in jars with cloth lids

Welcome back! If you read our foundational guide, A Holistic Approach to Health and Wellness, you know that true well-being is built on four interconnected pillars. Today, we’re diving deep into the first, and arguably the most fundamental: Nourishment.

For too long, the conversation around food has been dominated by restrictive dieting, calorie counting, and a focus purely on aesthetics. But intentional nourishment is about so much more. It’s about recognizing food as the premium-grade fuel your body and mind need to thrive, feel energized, and maintain vibrant health.

This isn’t about chasing the latest fad; it’s about establishing healthy eating habits for adults that last a lifetime. Let’s explore how to transform your relationship with food and unlock the powerful benefits of true whole-body nourishment.

🍽️ The Power of Whole Foods: Returning to Basics

The single most effective dietary shift you can make for mind body wellness is prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods.

What is a whole food? Simply put, it’s a food that is as close to its natural state as possible, with minimal processing and no added artificial ingredients. Think: a crisp apple, a handful of raw spinach, a piece of wild salmon, or a serving of brown rice.

* Focus on Nutrient Density: Whole foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients (the compounds that give plants their color and health benefits). When you choose a nutrient-dense whole food over a calorie-dense, processed snack, you are providing your cells with the raw materials they need for optimal function.

* Embrace the Rainbow: Make it a fun, daily challenge to consume foods of different colors. Red tomatoes, yellow peppers, purple cabbage, and dark leafy greens all contain different arrays of antioxidants crucial for fighting inflammation and supporting immunity.

* The Fiber Factor: Fiber, found primarily in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is essential. It aids digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and helps keep you feeling full longer, preventing those energy crashes and subsequent cravings.

💧 Hydration: The Unsung Hero of Healthy Habits

It might sound simple, but optimal hydration is a non-negotiable healthy habit for adults. Dehydration, even mild, can manifest as fatigue, poor concentration, headaches, and muscle cramps.

* The Morning Ritual: Start your day with a large glass of water, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon. This rehydrates your body after sleep and kick-starts your metabolism.

* Continuous Sips: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty—that’s a sign that dehydration has already begun. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and sip regularly. Herbal teas also count!

* Water and Mood: Research strongly suggests that proper hydration is linked to better mood regulation and decreased anxiety.

🧠 The Gut-Brain Connection

If we are talking about intentional nourishment, we must discuss the gut. Your gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria living in your digestive tract—is often called your “second brain.” The communication pathway between your gut and your brain (the gut-brain axis) profoundly influences everything from your immune system to your emotional health.

* Feed Your Microbiome: Support a healthy gut by consuming fermented foods (like plain yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi) rich in probiotics. Also, consume prebiotics (fiber-rich foods like oats, bananas, and asparagus) which are the food that your beneficial gut bacteria thrive on.

* Reduce Inflammatory Foods: Highly processed foods, excessive sugars, and refined oils can promote the growth of harmful bacteria and cause inflammation in the gut, which can negatively impact your mental state.

🧘‍♀️ Mindful Eating: A Habit of Presence

You could eat the most perfect, nutrient-rich meal in the world, but if you eat it while stressed, standing up, or rushing through emails, your body’s ability to digest and absorb those nutrients is compromised.

Mindful eating is a powerful tool in establishing healthy eating habits for adults.

* Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to the signals of true hunger and fullness. Stop when you are satisfied, not overly stuffed.

* Eliminate Distractions: Turn off the TV, put down your phone, and step away from your desk.

* Engage Your Senses: Notice the smell, the colors, and the texture of your food.

* Chew Thoroughly: Digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing your food until it’s nearly liquid aids in the absorption of nutrients and reduces the burden on your stomach.

🎯 Creating Sustainable Nourishment Habits

Establishing true healthy eating habits for life requires consistency, not perfection.

  • Focus on Addition, Not Just Subtraction: Instead of obsessing over what to cut out, focus on what you can add to your plate—more vegetables, more fiber, more water.
  • Meal Prep Simple Staples: Dedicate an hour on the weekend to prepping simple ingredients like quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a batch of hard-boiled eggs. Having healthy options readily available makes the healthy choice the easy choice.

Intentional nourishment is an act of deep self-respect. It’s the daily choice to give your body the best fuel available, allowing you to show up as your most vibrant, energetic, and resilient self. By nurturing this pillar, you lay the strongest possible foundation for all other areas of your holistic health.

What’s one whole food you can add to your next meal to boost your mind body wellness? Share your nourishing idea below!

Why I Stopped Drinking Soda

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Drink More Water, Growth & Expansion, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Integrative Health, Mental & Emotional Wellness, mental-health, Natural Solutions, selfcare, Soft Goals, Stop Drinking Soda
Cardboard cutout of a broken heart with a wooden tabletop background

It Was About More Than Just Soda

When people talk about quitting soda, they usually start with a health scare, a New Year’s resolution, or an attempt to cut calories.

My story starts somewhere very different.

It begins on January 20, 2012, the day my husband John died suddenly and unexpectedly. Life didn’t just change that day — it collapsed.

But this isn’t a story about grief making me quit soda.

It’s a story about grief forcing me to rebuild my life in a way a traditional approach to loss simply couldn’t support. And that rebuilding eventually led me to make choices — including giving up soda — that were rooted in clarity, education, and self-respect instead of survival mode.*

The usual Way of Grieving Didn’t Work for Me

After my husband died, I quickly learned that in our modern culture, grief has an expiration date.
You’re supposed to “return to normal,” even when normal no longer exists.

People tell you to stay busy.
Get back to work. (Three day bereavement leave? Seriously???)
Be strong.
Move on.
Take a pill.

None of that helped me.

I needed something that acknowledged the truth: grief isn’t a moment. It’s a changed life. And if I was going to survive in it, I needed real tools — emotional, physical, spiritual, and practical.

I knew I couldn’t keep going the way I was going.
I needed to learn how to care for myself again.

Enrolling in the institute of integrative nutrition (IIN) Was an Act of Self-Rescue

In 2017, five years after losing John, I enrolled in IIN, an online health coaching program.

I enrolled to become a health coach.
And because I needed help — real help — and I wasn’t finding it in the usual places.

I needed to understand my body.
My emotions.
My relationship with food.
My stress.
My habits.
My health.

I needed something that honored the complexity of what I had lived through.

IIN became that space for me.

And it was in that space that my relationship with soda began to shift.

What I Learned at IIN Changed How I Saw Soda Completely

Soda had been part of my daily life for years. It was comforting, familiar, predictable.

But through IIN, I learned things I had never heard before:

  • The connection between sugar and inflammation
  • How stress and grief can drive cravings
  • The idea that certain foods or drinks are “primary nutrition” for the nervous system — not because they nourish us, but because they numb us
  • How blood sugar spikes affect mood, energy, and overwhelm
  • The concept of crowding out — adding nourishing habits until the unhealthy ones naturally fade
  • The difference between eating to cope and eating to nourish

Once I understood all of this, soda stopped feeling harmless.

It started feeling misaligned with the woman I was becoming — someone who was finally making choices for herself instead of reacting to the fallout of trauma.

How I Actually Stopped Drinking Soda

I didn’t quit overnight.

There was no dramatic “last can” moment.

What happened was quieter, steadier, and more sustainable:

  • I started drinking more water and herbal teas.
  • I paid attention to what my body felt like after eating whole foods.
  • I noticed how exhausted I became after the sugar rush wore off.
  • I learned to listen to my cravings with curiosity instead of judgment.
  • I replaced the emotional comfort I used to get from soda with real nourishment — rest, hydration, connection, movement, and gentler self-talk. (I’m still working on the gentler self-talk.)

And then one day, without ceremony, I realized:

I hadn’t had soda in weeks. Then months.
Then years. I hadn’t bought any from the grocery store. There was none in the house anywhere AND I didn’t miss it.

The knowledge I gained at IIN didn’t make me force myself to quit.
It made me want to.

What Changed After I Quit

The changes weren’t dramatic, but they were meaningful:

  • More consistent energy
  • Better mood stability
  • Clearer thinking
  • Fewer cravings
  • Less reliance on external “comforts”
  • A deeper sense of alignment with who I was becoming

Stopping soda wasn’t the point.
It was one small part of a much larger journey toward healing, presence, and self-understanding.

The Truth: Soda Was Never Just Soda

For me, quitting soda was a symbol of something bigger:

I had stopped choosing things that soothed my pain and started choosing things that supported my life.

Grief cracked me open.
IIN helped me rebuild.
And giving up soda was one of the many changes that emerged from finally learning how to take care of myself in a healthier, more holistic way.

If You’re On Your Own Healing Path

You don’t have to start big.
You don’t have to overhaul everything.
You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment.

Sometimes transformation begins with a surprising choice — even something as ordinary as soda.

And sometimes the smallest shift is the first sign that you’re ready to reclaim your life.

Are you Ready to Make Your Own Shift?

If my story resonates with you — if you’re curious about changing your habits, strengthening your health, or simply learning what your cravings are trying to tell you — I’d love to support you.

I created a simple, easy-to-follow guide called Stop Drinking Soda. It’s designed to help you:

  • understand why soda is so hard to quit
  • uncover the emotional triggers behind cravings
  • learn practical, gentle steps to reduce (or eliminate) soda
  • add in habits that naturally crowd out the need for sugar
  • start feeling better in a real, sustainable way

It’s not about perfection.
It’s about one empowered choice at a time.

You can download the guide here and begin your own journey toward healthier habits — in the same compassionate, holistic way that supported mine.

Get the guide

Both/And: Choosing Wholeness Instead of Either/Or

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Gratitude, Growth & Expansion, Healthy Lifestyle, Mental & Emotional Wellness, mental-health, Natural Solutions, selfcare, Small Joys
Mindset shift

Life often presents us with choices that feel like a tug-of-war. We’re told we have to pick one side or the other—this or that, black or white, right or wrong. But what if the truth, and the peace we’re searching for, lies not in either/or but in both/and?

This gentle shift in thinking can change the way we live, love, and even care for ourselves. Let’s explore how embracing “both/and” can bring more balance, freedom, and wholeness into everyday life.

What Does “Both/And” Mean?

“Both/And” is a mindset that allows us to hold two truths at once, even if they seem opposite. Instead of reducing life to a narrow choice, it opens the door to possibility.

Think about these examples:

  • You can be strong and still feel vulnerable.
  • You can want change and still feel grateful for where you are.
  • You can be independent and still ask for help.

Life is rarely as simple as an “either/or.” When we give ourselves permission to live in the “both/and,” we stop forcing ourselves into boxes and start living more authentically.

Why “Either/Or” Thinking Feels So Limiting

Most of us were raised in a culture that rewards clarity and certainty. “Pick a side,” “make a decision,” or “choose wisely” were phrases we heard growing up. While decision-making is important, this mindset can create unnecessary stress and guilt.

Here are a few ways “either/or” thinking can hold us back:

  1. It creates pressure. Believing we must choose one right answer can leave us feeling stuck.
  2. It breeds self-judgment. If we choose one side and later wish we had chosen the other, guilt can creep in.
  3. It blocks creativity. Either/or limits us to two paths, while both/and allows for new ideas.

The Power of “Both/And” in Everyday Life

Shifting to a “both/and” mindset can feel like a breath of fresh air. It gives space for compassion, curiosity, and growth. Here are some ways it can show up in daily life:

1. Emotions

It’s normal to feel conflicting emotions. You can be excited about a new opportunity and nervous at the same time. Recognizing this helps you honor your full emotional experience without judgment.

2. Relationships

You can set boundaries and still be loving. You can forgive someone and still feel hurt. Healthy relationships thrive when we allow room for both/and.

3. Personal Growth

You can celebrate how far you’ve come while still reaching for new goals. Gratitude and growth are not opposites—they walk hand in hand.

4. Health and Wellness

You can enjoy dessert and still care about nourishing your body. You can rest and still be productive. Wellness isn’t about rigid choices—it’s about balance.

How to Practice a “Both/And” Mindset

Like any new habit, this shift takes practice. Here are some gentle ways to begin:

Notice Your Language

Pay attention to how often you use “either/or” words like but or should. Try replacing them with and. For example:

  • Instead of “I want to exercise, but I’m tired,” try, “I want to exercise, and I’m tired.”
    This opens the door to finding solutions that honor both truths.

Practice Curiosity

When you feel stuck between two options, ask: “What would it look like to hold both?” This question can spark creative answers that weren’t visible before.

Give Yourself Permission

Sometimes we need to remind ourselves it’s okay to feel two things at once. Write a note, repeat an affirmation, or take a breath when you notice inner conflict.

Try: “I allow myself to hold both truths with compassion.”

Slow Down

Both/and thinking requires space. Instead of rushing to a decision, pause and listen to what your body, mind, and heart are saying. Answers often emerge with time.

Why This Shift Supports Inner Peace

When we allow life to be “both/and,” we free ourselves from perfectionism. We stop trying to fit into rigid categories and instead embrace the fullness of being human.

This shift can lead to:

  • Less guilt over your choices
  • More compassion toward yourself and others
  • Greater creativity in problem-solving
  • Deeper relationships built on understanding and acceptance

Final Thoughts: Wholeness Over Perfection

Life doesn’t have to be a constant tug-of-war. By choosing “both/and” over “either/or,” we step into a more spacious way of living—one that honors complexity, balance, and truth.

The next time you feel pulled to choose sides, pause and ask: “What if both can be true?”

Wholeness lives in that question. Freedom lives there, too.

Start Fresh in August: 5 Simple Shifts for a Better Month

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Drink More Water, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Holistic & Integrated Approaches, Holistic Mental Health Practices, Integrative Health, Longevity & Healthy Aging, Longevity Wellness, Mental & Emotional Wellness, Mental Health, mental-health, Natural Solutions, Preventative Self-care, selfcare, Small Joys, Soft Goals, Summer, Uncategorized
It’s August already. Are you getting ready for autumn?

August is often a quiet month. Summer is winding down, the back-to-school ads are popping up, and you might feel caught in between — not quite ready for fall, but a little worn out from the heat and hustle of summer.

It’s the perfect time to reset.
Not with a long list of goals or strict routines — just a few simple shifts that can gently guide you toward a better month.

Whether you’ve had a busy summer or feel like the year is moving too fast, August offers a fresh start. Let’s keep it easy. These five simple shifts don’t require a big overhaul. Just small changes with a big impact.

1. Slow Your Mornings

If your mornings feel rushed, this is your invitation to slow them down — even just a little.

Try waking up 10–15 minutes earlier. Not to check your phone or scroll, but to sit quietly, sip water or coffee, and breathe. This small window of calm can set the tone for the entire day.

Try this:
Before you check email or news, step outside for five minutes. Look at the sky. Stretch your arms. Let your body and mind wake up gently.

A slower start doesn’t mean doing less — it means doing what matters first.

2. Drink More Water, More Often

This one sounds simple because it is — and it works. Staying hydrated helps you think more clearly, improves mood, and keeps your energy more steady throughout the day.

In the heat of August, your body needs it more than ever. But many of us don’t realize we’re low on water until we’re already tired or dragging.

Try this:
Fill a reusable water bottle in the morning and keep it where you can see it — on your desk, in your car, by the kitchen sink. Add a slice of lemon or cucumber if that helps you drink more.

A few extra sips every hour can lead to a better mood and clearer mind by the end of the day.

3. Make One Thing Easier

We often feel stuck because we’re trying to do too much at once. What if you made one thing easier this month?

Maybe that’s simplifying dinner with a weekly meal plan, keeping your shoes by the door to encourage a daily walk, or unsubscribing from emails that clutter your inbox.

Try this:
Pick one area of your life that feels harder than it needs to be. Ask yourself: “What would make this 10% easier?” Start there.

Easier doesn’t mean lazy. It means smarter. You deserve systems that support your peace of mind.

4. Use Your Evenings to Unplug

The end of the day often fades into screens — TV, phones, social media — but it doesn’t always feel restful. August is a great time to rethink how your evenings wind down.

Even just 20 minutes of unplugged time before bed can help you sleep better and feel more grounded.

Try this:
Instead of scrolling before bed, step outside for some evening air. Sit on the porch. Journal a few thoughts. Light a candle. Do a gentle stretch.

Your brain needs quiet to process the day. Give yourself the gift of calm before sleep.

5. Set a Gentle Intention for the Month

Not a goal. Not a to-do list. Just a simple intention to carry with you through August.

It could be a word like ease, clarity, or joy. Or a phrase: “I take care of myself in small ways every day.” Let it be something that feels supportive — not pressure-filled.

Try this:
Write your August intention on a sticky note and place it where you’ll see it each day — your mirror, fridge, or planner.

Let that intention guide your choices. Not perfectly, but gently. You can return to it whenever you feel off-track.

A Better Month Begins With Small Shifts

You don’t need to change everything. You don’t need a perfect plan.

You just need a little space to breathe. A little water. A little quiet. A small step in a new direction.

August is your fresh start — not because anything is broken, but because you’re ready for something better.

Let this be the month you slow down, care for yourself in quiet ways, and choose peace over pressure.

You deserve that. You always have.

Before August Begins: 3 Wellness Promises to Make to Yourself

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Growth & Expansion, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Holistic & Integrated Approaches, Holistic Mental Health Practices, Longevity & Healthy Aging, Mental & Emotional Wellness, Mental Health, mental-health, Natural Solutions, Preventative Self-care, selfcare, sleep, Small Joys, Soft Goals, stress-management, Summer, Uncategorized

The end of July is a perfect time to pause. Summer may still be in full swing, but August is waiting just around the corner—with its routines, back-to-school prep, and the quiet shift toward fall.

Before that shift happens, give yourself a moment. A deep breath. A chance to reflect, not on what went wrong or what you didn’t do but on what you can still do to take care of yourself.

Rather than setting goals or adding more pressure, try something gentler. Try making three simple promises to yourself. These aren’t lofty resolutions. They’re honest commitments. Small steps that help you move through the last part of summer with more intention, clarity, and peace.

Here are 3 wellness promises you can make before August begins—easy enough to start now, strong enough to carry into the new season.

🌙 1. I Promise to Set Better Sleep Boundaries

Sleep often gets pushed aside during summer—later sunsets, social plans, travel, or even just staying up scrolling. But your body and brain depend on rest, especially when the days are long and full.

This doesn’t mean creating a perfect bedtime routine. It simply means protecting the time and space your body needs to rest.

Try this:

  • Set a “screens off” time 30–60 minutes before bed
  • Keep your phone out of arm’s reach at night
  • Use low lighting in the hour before sleep (lamps, not overhead lights)
  • Keep a notepad by your bed for any to-dos that pop into your mind

Why it matters:
Better sleep helps with energy, focus, mood, and even digestion. Most of all, it helps you show up for your life feeling more present and grounded.

📵 2. I Promise to Take One Daily Digital Break

Let’s be real: our phones are always within reach. And while there’s nothing wrong with staying connected, constant input can leave you feeling scattered, tense, or simply drained. It’s easy to lose track of your own thoughts when you’re swimming in everyone else’s.

So here’s a gentle promise: take one intentional break from your screen every day. Just one. It doesn’t have to be long—10 minutes of quiet can shift your whole mindset.

Try this:

  • Step outside for a screen-free walk
  • Eat one meal a day without your phone
  • Use a real alarm clock instead of your phone
  • Keep your phone in another room during your break

Why it matters:
Even a short digital break helps you reset mentally and physically. You’ll sleep better, think clearer, and feel more like yourself.

🧡 3. I Promise to Speak Kindly to Myself

This one’s personal—and powerful. It’s a BIG one for me. Negative self talk, especially as I am waking up, can affect my whole day (if I let it).
How we talk to ourselves affects how we move through the world. If your inner voice is always rushing, criticizing, or comparing, it’s hard to feel good—no matter what else is going right.

Make this the season you start softening your inner dialogue.

Try this:

  • Start your day with a gentle thought instead of checking your phone
  • Write a short affirmation or reminder and place it somewhere visible
  • When you mess up or fall short, ask yourself: What would I say to a friend in this moment?

Why it matters:
You don’t need perfection. You need compassion. Kind self-talk lowers stress and builds the confidence to make positive changes in every area of life.

A Gentle Wrap-Up

Before August sweeps you into a new month, take time to root yourself with intention. These three promises aren’t about doing more—they’re about choosing better.

Better rest.
Better boundaries.
Better self-talk.

Small, meaningful changes that bring more peace into your day. And once you start, you may find that these promises are ones you want to keep—not just for August, but all year long.


Reminder: You’re allowed to pause. You’re allowed to reset. And you’re allowed to care for yourself first.


Simple Summer Wellness: 4 Tiny Habits That Make a Big Difference

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Drink More Water, Gratitude, Growth & Expansion, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Holistic & Integrated Approaches, Holistic Mental Health Practices, Journals, Longevity & Healthy Aging, Mental & Emotional Wellness, Mental Health, mental-health, Natural Solutions, Nervous System Regulation, Notebooks, Preventative Self-care, selfcare, sleep, Small Joys, Soft Goals, stress-management, Summer
Simple Summer Wellness

When summer rolls around, we often set big goals—more sunshine, better routines, healthier meals, longer walks. But let’s be honest: the heat, busy schedules, and constant noise can make even the best intentions feel like too much.

The truth is, you don’t need a complete life overhaul to feel better. Small, consistent habits can shift your entire day. And when it’s hot, crowded, or chaotic, tiny is just the right size.

Here are 4 tiny summer habits that are easy to keep and powerful enough to help you feel more grounded, refreshed, and in control—no matter what the season throws your way.

1. Drink Water Before Anything Else

You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: hydration changes everything. And during the summer months, when heat and sun can leave you feeling sluggish, starting your day with a glass of water can help you wake up faster and feel more alert.

I have been doing this for a long time. I drink a 10 ounce glass of water every morning, after setting up the coffee pot, before drinking any coffee (or anything else). While I”m waiting for the coffee to brew, I have already started rehydrating myself.

This is my #1 healthy habit I have formed in the last eight years.

Try this: Keep a glass of water beside your bed. When you wake up, take a few sips, or do as I do and have a glass of water while your coffee brews. It’s a small act that sets the tone for better choices all day.

Why it helps: Overnight, your body loses water—even more so if you’re sleeping in a warm room. Rehydrating first thing supports digestion, improves mood, and boosts energy.

2. Go Outside First Thing in the Morning

Before the day heats up, take 5–10 minutes outside. You don’t have to run or even walk far. Just step onto your porch, balcony, or backyard. Stand barefoot on the grass, breathe in the fresh air, and feel the sunlight on your face.

Try this: Make it part of your morning routine. Take your coffee or tea outside. Water your plants. Listen to the birds. Keep your phone inside.

Why it helps: Natural light first thing in the morning helps set your internal clock, improves sleep later, and gently shifts you out of “rush mode.” You’ll feel calmer, more focused, and more connected to your day.

3. Pause Midday for a Screen-Free Break

It’s easy to get swept up in scrolling, news updates, or never-ending to-do lists. But your brain needs space to reset—and summer is the perfect time to step away for even just a few minutes.

Try this: Set a reminder for a 10-minute break in the middle of your day. Turn off your phone, walk to a window, stretch, or sit in silence. If you’re working from home or on the go, you can still pause. The key is to actually pause.

Why it helps: Stepping away from screens for just a few minutes helps reduce stress and eye strain. It gives your mind a chance to reset and helps you come back to your tasks with more clarity and patience.

4. End the Day with One Good Thought

It’s easy to end the day thinking about what didn’t get done, what went wrong, or what needs fixing tomorrow. But you can train your mind to notice the good—and it starts with one small habit.

Try this: Before bed, jot down one thing that went well today. It can be as simple as “I took a walk” or “I made time to rest.” Keep a notebook by your bed.

Why it helps: Positive reflection helps you shift out of stress and into rest. It creates a sense of closure and helps your brain settle for better sleep. Over time, it builds a habit of noticing progress instead of pressure.

The Power of Tiny Shifts

You don’t have to change your entire life to feel better this summer.
Start with one of these small habits:

  • A glass of water
  • A few minutes outside
  • A midday pause
  • One good thought before bed

These aren’t big, fancy fixes. They’re steady, doable steps that add up over time.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need—just a little space to breathe, reset, and reconnect with ourselves.

Need a little nudge to get started?
Download this Habit Tracker to help you stay consistent with these small shifts. Print it out or keep it on your phone to check off each day—you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel by the end of the week. It’s free, btw.

Midmonth Selfcare: Reconnect and Realign

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Growth & Expansion, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Holistic & Integrated Approaches, Holistic Mental Health Practices, Integrative Health, Longevity & Healthy Aging, Mental & Emotional Wellness, mental-health, Natural Solutions, Preventative Self-care, selfcare, Soft Goals, stress-management, Summer, Uncategorized
Take Care of Yourself

We’re halfway through July, and if you’re like most people, the month is flying by. Maybe your calendar is full, your to-do list is long, and your energy is running a little low. That’s why today I want to invite you to take a gentle pause.

This isn’t about falling behind or pushing harder. It’s about checking in—honestly, kindly, and without judgment. How are you really doing?

Why a Mid-Month Check-In Matters

We often start a new month with good intentions. Maybe you set a few goals, made a list of things to work on, or even promised yourself a slower, more intentional pace. But somewhere along the way, life happens. The days get busy. The routines slip. And without even noticing, you might find yourself running on autopilot.

That’s why the middle of the month is the perfect time to pause. It’s a natural point to reset, realign, and reconnect with yourself before the month slips away.

Ask Yourself These 5 Questions

Take a few moments—five minutes, even—to ask yourself the following questions. You can write your answers in a journal, type them into your phone, or simply reflect in your mind. No pressure. No perfection. Just honesty.

  1. How do I feel in my body today?
    • Are you rested or tired? Energized or sluggish? Tense or relaxed? Try to notice without fixing.
  2. What’s been taking up most of my mental space this month?
    • Work? Family? Worry? Plans? Social media? Is it helpful or draining?
  3. What’s one thing I’ve done well this month?
    • Celebrate it. Big or small, give yourself credit.
  4. What’s something I need right now?
    • Maybe it’s more sleep, more quiet, more laughter, or less screen time.
  5. What’s one gentle shift I can make this week to feel more like myself?
    • Not an overhaul—just a small, loving step.

You Don’t Have to Hustle Through July

There’s a quiet kind of strength in resting. In fact, rest is a form of productivity—it refuels your mind, body, and spirit. When we pause and care for ourselves, we show up more fully in every other area of our lives.

So if you’re feeling tired, scattered, or overwhelmed, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It simply means it’s time to realign. That could look like:

  • A slow morning without rushing into the day
  • A walk outside without your phone
  • A simple meal that nourishes instead of stresses
  • A conversation with someone who makes you feel like yourself

Sometimes the most meaningful progress happens when we stop and breathe.

Realignment Isn’t Complicated

You don’t need a full day at the spa or a week off work to reset. Realignment is about noticing what’s not working and gently choosing something that feels better.

Maybe you’ve been staying up too late scrolling. Tonight, you light a candle and read a few pages of a book instead.

Maybe your meals have been on-the-go and not filling. Today, you take five extra minutes to sit down and eat without multitasking.

Maybe your mornings have been chaotic. Tomorrow, you wake up ten minutes early for a few quiet sips of coffee before the world wakes up.

These are simple things. But they matter. They remind your body and mind that you matter.

A Reflection Activity for You

If you want to go a little deeper today, try this journal prompt:

“If I treated myself like someone I deeply care about, what would I do differently today?”

Let the answer guide you through the rest of the month. Let it remind you that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s wise. And it’s necessary.

A Gentle Reminder

You are allowed to start over at any point in the month.

You’re allowed to rest.

You’re allowed to shift direction, to release what’s not working, and to return to what helps you feel grounded.

Mid-month is not too late. It’s right on time.

Before You Go…

Take one deep breath. Roll your shoulders. Unclench your jaw. Place a hand over your heart and say, “I’m doing my best.” Because you are.

This July, give yourself permission to pause. The rest will still be there when you’re ready—but you come first.

Let’s keep showing up—for ourselves—one gentle step at a time.

Self-Care in the Summer Sun: 5 Simple Ways to Refill Your Cup

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Climate Mental Health, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Holistic & Integrated Approaches, Holistic Mental Health Practices, Longevity & Healthy Aging, Longevity Wellness, Mental & Emotional Wellness, Mental Health, mental-health, Natural Solutions, Preventative Self-care, selfcare, Small Joys, stress-management, Summer
Enjoy a refreshing glass of iced tea

Summer has a way of speeding up life. The days are longer, and calendars fill with cookouts, travel plans, and extra errands. While there’s beauty in the brightness of summer, it can also leave you feeling drained—especially if you’re not pausing to care for yourself.

The good news? You don’t need an expensive retreat to feel better. Sometimes, just a few small moments can help you slow down, cool off, and feel more like yourself again.

Here are five simple, budget-friendly ways to refill your cup this summer—without overthinking it.

1. Take a Cool Bath or Shower

When the heat becomes too much, a cool (tepid is best per friend Jenny Graves, author of Naturally-Supporting-Cancer-Treatment-Evidence-based) bath or shower can work wonders. It’s more than just about lowering your body temperature—it’s about giving yourself a quiet pause. Light a candle, play soft music, or just enjoy the sound of the water.

Try adding a few slices of cucumber or mint leaves to bath water for a refreshing twist. If you’re showering, hang a bundle of eucalyptus or lavender from your shower head. It’s a little act of care that can turn a basic rinse into a calming reset.

Why it helps: Water has a naturally soothing effect. It lowers stress levels and helps you feel clean, refreshed, and reconnected to your body.

2. Start Your Day with a Gentle Morning Walk

Summer mornings are often the coolest and quietest part of the day. Before the noise of the day takes over, lace up your shoes and take a short walk—around your block, through your garden, or at a nearby park.

Keep it simple: no phone calls, no rushing. Just notice the birds, the breeze, and the way the light filters through the trees. Even 10–15 minutes can lift your mood and give you a small victory to carry into your day.

Why it helps: Morning light can help regulate your sleep cycle, and movement boosts your energy. A walk also gives your mind room to breathe.

3. Create a Simple Herbal Iced Tea Ritual

Instead of reaching for another coffee or sugary soda, treat yourself to a tall glass of iced herbal tea. You can make a batch ahead of time and keep it in your fridge. Mint, chamomile, hibiscus, and lemon balm are all wonderful choices for cooling and calming.

Take it outside to sip under a shady tree or enjoy it with your feet up indoors. Add a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh herbs from your garden for a little touch of beauty.

Why it helps: Staying hydrated is crucial during the summer, and herbal teas offer gentle benefits for digestion, relaxation, and hydration—all without caffeine.

4. Create a Quiet Corner Just for You

Designate a small space in your home (or even outside) that’s just for you. It doesn’t have to be fancy—a cozy chair, a cushion, a basket with your journal, a book, or a favorite photo.

Return to this space when you need to breathe, reflect, or just sit in peace. If it’s too hot indoors, set up a shaded spot on your porch or in your backyard. Even five minutes in your “quiet corner” can help shift your energy.

Why it helps: Having a physical space that belongs to you sends a message: “I matter.” It invites you to pause and honor your needs in the middle of a busy day.

5. Unplug for One Hour Each Day

Between group texts, social media, and constant news updates, your mind rarely gets a break. Choose one hour each day—maybe during your lunch, in the early evening, or before bed—to set your phone aside.

Use that time to rest, read, journal, cook, stretch, or simply be still. You might be surprised how quickly the noise settles when you allow space for quiet.

Why it helps: Constant input can be exhausting. Even short breaks from screens can improve focus, reduce stress, and give you more clarity and calm.

A Gentle Reminder

Self-care doesn’t always look like spa days or long vacations. Sometimes, it’s a glass of iced tea in the shade, a walk before the world wakes up, or five minutes in a chair where no one’s asking anything of you.

If your summer has felt a little too full, try one of these ideas this week. You don’t have to do all five. Just start somewhere.

The sun is shining, but you don’t have to burn out. You deserve moments of calm, comfort, and care—even in the middle of a busy season.

Need a little help getting started?
Download my free Self-Care Checklist—a simple printable you can hang on the fridge or keep in your journal as a gentle reminder to put yourself back on the list.

Mid-Year Check-In: Reflect, Reset, and Refocus for the Rest of 2025

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Growth & Expansion, healthy habits, Healthy Lifestyle, Journals, mental-health, Natural Solutions, Notebooks, selfcare, Writing
Reflect, reset, and refocus

Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year?

This is the perfect moment to pause and take a breath. Whether the first half of the year flew by or dragged its feet, a mid-year check-in gives us the opportunity to look back with honesty and look forward with purpose. Think of it as a gentle reset—a moment to stop, reflect, and realign with what matters most.

Here’s how to do a simple mid-year check-in, no complicated systems or planners required.

1. Reflect Without Judgment

Before we dive into making changes, we start by looking back. Grab a notebook, journal, or even the notes app on your phone, and ask yourself:

  • What goals did I set in January?
  • Which ones have I made progress on?
  • What surprised me—good or bad?
  • What habits or routines felt nourishing?
  • Where did I struggle, and why?

You don’t need to have achieved everything (or anything) to benefit from reflection. The point here is awareness. Maybe you pivoted your goals completely—or maybe life threw you a curveball. That’s okay. Growth often looks more like a winding road than a straight line.

2. Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small

We often rush past our progress without taking time to appreciate it. So let’s pause and celebrate.

Did you start walking more regularly? Did you reconnect with a friend? Did you make it through a tough season? These moments matter. Write them down. Acknowledge what you’ve done well, even if you didn’t reach every goal.

Celebrating the small steps builds momentum for the bigger ones ahead.

3. Check in With Your Energy

How are you really feeling? Burnt out? Motivated? Distracted? Energized?

A mid-year check-in is about more than goals—it’s about your overall well-being. Ask yourself:

  • Am I getting enough rest?
  • Do my days feel rushed or peaceful?
  • What drains me? What fuels me?
  • Do I feel connected—to people, to purpose, to myself?

When you know where your energy is going, it’s easier to protect your time and make choices that serve your whole self.

4. Realign With What Matters Most

Over time, goals shift. What felt important in January might not make sense now—and that’s perfectly normal.

Use this moment to ask:

  • What still feels important?
  • What do I need to let go of?
  • What matters to me now?

Maybe you’re craving more calm and less hustle. Or maybe you want to take more risks and try something new. This is your reset button. Adjust your goals to match your current season—not the one you thought you’d be in six months ago.

5. Reset Your Routine

You don’t need to overhaul your whole life. But sometimes, a few small tweaks can make a big difference.

Here are a few gentle ideas for a fresh start:

  • Add a 10-minute morning routine to start your day with intention.
  • Set a phone-free hour before bed to improve your sleep.
  • Choose one day each week to meal prep, plan, or rest.
  • Revisit your calendar and block time for things that matter to you.

Small changes, repeated often, create big results over time.

6. Create a Short List of Next Steps

Let’s keep it simple. Choose three things you want to focus on between now and the end of the year. These should be meaningful, manageable, and motivating.

Here’s a helpful framework:

  • One personal goal (like walking daily or reading more)
  • One relational goal (like spending time with family or reconnecting with a friend)
  • One professional goal (like updating your resume or learning a new skill)

Write them somewhere visible. These are your compass points for the rest of the year.

7. Offer Yourself Grace

This is your gentle reminder: You’re allowed to change. You’re allowed to grow at your own pace. You’re allowed to rest.

A mid-year check-in isn’t about pushing harder. It’s about showing up with honesty, compassion, and clarity. You’re not behind. You’re exactly where you need to be to take the next right step.

Keep It Simple, Keep It Real

The second half of the year holds so much potential—not because you have to do more, but because you can choose more intentionally. More of what feels right. More of what brings peace. More of what helps you feel like yourself again.

So take a breath, check in, and choose what comes next—with care and courage.

You’ve got this.


📥 Want a printable Mid-Year Check-In Journal Page? Download it here and give yourself space to reflect and refocus for the months ahead.

More Than Just a Harvest: The Hidden Benefits of Gardening for Mind, Body, and Spirit

by Suzanne Horrocks Wellness, posted in Exercise/Movement, Growth & Expansion, Healthy Lifestyle, mental-health, Natural Solutions, selfcare
Gardening in small spaces

When my sister said gardening wasn’t cost-effective, I paused. From a strictly financial lens, sure—maybe a head of lettuce costs less at the store. But what about everything you can’t measure? The quiet joy of planting seeds. The way the sun warms your back while you dig. The calm that settles in your chest as you breathe in the earthy scent of the soil.

Gardening may not always pay off in dollars, but its value goes far beyond the grocery bill. Whether you’re planting a few herbs on a balcony or tending a full backyard garden, the benefits for your mental, physical, and spiritual health are deeply nourishing—and well worth the effort.

Let’s dig into why.

1. Gardening for Mental Health: A Natural Mood Booster

In a world that often feels loud and fast, the garden invites us to slow down. It offers a kind of therapy we don’t have to schedule or pay for—just step outside and get your hands in the dirt.

  • Reduces stress and anxiety: Studies show that spending time in nature reduces cortisol levels (that’s your stress hormone). Even 30 minutes a week in the garden can lower anxiety and help regulate your mood.
  • Boosts focus and clarity: Pulling weeds or planting tomatoes might seem simple, but those repetitive, grounding tasks support mindfulness. Gardening encourages you to stay present, which is a natural way to quiet racing thoughts.
  • Eases symptoms of depression: There’s a reason many therapists recommend gardening as part of a holistic wellness plan. Exposure to sunlight, physical activity, and a sense of purpose—all found in the garden—have been shown to ease mild depression.

So next time life feels overwhelming, consider stepping into your garden instead of scrolling through your phone. You might find what you’re looking for growing right under your feet.

2. Gardening for Physical Health: Gentle Movement with Real Benefits

Gardening may not look like exercise, but your body definitely knows it is.

  • Improves flexibility and strength: Bending, stretching, squatting, and lifting are all part of gardening. Over time, this gentle movement helps maintain mobility and keeps muscles engaged—especially helpful as we age.
  • Supports heart health and immunity: Moderate physical activity like gardening has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve immune response.
  • Encourages healthy eating: When you grow it yourself, you’re more likely to eat it! A garden full of greens, herbs, and vegetables makes healthy eating more accessible and rewarding.

Gardening is especially wonderful for those who don’t enjoy traditional exercise. It keeps your body moving without feeling like a chore.

3. Gardening for Spiritual Health: Connection and Purpose

There’s something sacred about watching life grow. Gardening is a powerful spiritual practice, whether or not you think of yourself as “spiritual.”

  • Fosters connection: Tending to living things—plants, pollinators, soil—reminds us that we’re part of a larger ecosystem. It can ease feelings of loneliness and help us feel connected to something greater.
  • Cultivates patience and presence: Gardening teaches us that we can’t rush nature. We learn to observe, to wait, to trust in a process we don’t fully control. This surrender is deeply calming to the soul.
  • Brings joy and gratitude: The simple act of harvesting something you planted weeks ago brings a sense of wonder. It reminds us that life is full of small miracles worth noticing.

When you spend time in the garden, you’re not just growing food—you’re growing presence, peace, and perspective.

The Garden as a Healing Space

It’s true—gardening might not always save money. But what it does save is your sanity, your strength, and your spirit. In times when life feels chaotic or uncertain, a garden can become a quiet refuge. A space where healing happens in small, beautiful ways.

So the next time someone tells you gardening isn’t “worth it,” smile and gently disagree. Because if you’ve ever felt the peace of a morning sunbeam on your back while watering herbs—or the thrill of pulling your first ripe tomato—you already know: gardening is one of the most valuable things we can do for our wellbeing.

🌱 Ready to Reap the Benefits?

Whether you’re planting a pot of basil or building raised beds, your garden is a sacred space. One that nurtures not just your body, but your entire being.

Reconnect with your inner calm and rediscover the joy of growing something beautiful. Start small—plant a seed, pull a few weeds, or simply sit in your garden and breathe. Your healing can begin with just one mindful moment in the soil. 🌱