Meet Melissa

Growing up, I enjoyed a healthy lifestyle, fueled by home-cooked meals and athletic pursuits. I knew eating whole food and exercise would "keep me healthy." As a graduate of The University of Texas and Lamar University, with degrees in Early Childhood Education and Educational Administration, I've always valued education and personal growth. While I maintained an active lifestyle in college, my nutrition and self-care habits could have been better. Let's be honest, who hasn't faced similar challenges?

 

My self-awareness, regarding my health, became a priority while I was a classroom teacher and, even more so, after becoming a first-time mom. Migraines and a toxic environment led me to explore alternative healing. Essential oils became a game-changer, supporting my well-being and my son's after he was born in 2015. From skin irritations, like diaper rash and eczema, to seasonal allergies, digestive concerns, postpartum support, emotional balance, and physical pain, I learned and incorporated various modalities and empowering solutions to support myself and my growing family. 

 

We moved to Colorado Springs in 2017 where I continued my wellness journey, growing my essential oil business and embracing healing through nature, community, enhanced movement, sound healing, and aromatherapy. My youngest was born in 2018 and I knew that I needed to continue to seek whole-health improvements not just for myself but for our family. Parenthood brought new challenges and opportunities for health and growth. 

 

Then, the pandemic hit.  

 

When Covid started, I was my heaviest weight, most unhealthy feeling, and mentally struggling. It took me about six months to really dive into where I was and vision where I wanted to be. For me, the first step was mindset and movement. I began healing my Diastasis Recti (ab separation) through simple movements, held myself accountable, and held space for a daily meditation. I did an online program for yoga and strength training where I submitted macros eaten each week. This process taught me a lot about the food I was eating, helped me reflect on what fueled me and how I felt as I noticed physical and mental shifts. I found that I was gluten and dairy sensitive and omitting those items was a difference of twenty pounds of inflammation weight. Accountability during this exploration of foods was vital!