Hi, I'm Jen!

Growing up in a world dominated by Western medicine, I witnessed the belief that doctors held the key to health. However, in a family facing chronic pain, addiction, mental health struggles, and my own health battles, I became determined to find alternative approaches for healthier well-being.

 

My journey began at home, where comfort meant exploring my creativity and experimenting with food. Food for me has grown in my values to a central part of family traditions in my home, from preparing meals to spending time together. I fondly remember my mom's delicious cooking and her intuitive way of adding a dash of this and a pinch of that without measuring, but as I grew to appreciate my moms cooking I would later realize missing element to food and that was eating at the dinner table together. 

 

Through the years, I became a part of a new culture, learning from friends who became a part of my life and taught me a new meaning of food and tradition. Each part of the recipe had a story passed down through generations, and time and meaning played a vital role in the food that was prepared. From time spent in the kitchen and traditional gatherings around the table to spending time with loved ones, it was exactly what I needed to later create the life I learned to value. Over time, I discovered that the foods I grew up with were connected to creating and recreating dishes for a healthier lifestyle, something I learned as a child, and how it changed my overall health and understanding of food.
 

In my early 20s, I realized there had to be a healthier way to enjoy those familiar flavors. Thus, my journey into "stealth health" cooking began. Gradually, I substituted healthier ingredients while keeping the original taste intact. These small changes made a big difference, and I started feeling mentally and physically better. By preparing healthier alternatives, I maintained the wholesome tradition of cherished family recipes. Today, every dish I prepare honors family stories and culinary heritage while celebrating wholesome ingredients. I delight in sharing my knowledge with friends and family, especially my two sons who are my biggest support.  

 

As my story of food and culture became a vital part of my life, I realized the importance of incorporating exercise and soon discovered the healing power of massage therapy. This became a pivotal part of my healing journey, providing relief for chronic pain and my mental health issues and enabling me to help others experience the same benefits. Massage therapy revealed my innate desire to nurture and help others.

 

As life evolved, I embraced motherhood and shifted gears to become a stay-at-home mom, seeking a new purpose. Being a mom has been one of the greatest joys of my life, though not without its challenges. As my children started school, I was able to work part-time again as a massage therapist and discovered more of my creative side. From teaching myself how to paint interiors, refurnish furniture, tackling DIY projects, decorating my home, crafting wreaths, learning to knit, and creating fantasy photoshoots, each activity became an intricate part of my pillar of health and wellness, bringing fulfillment, joy, and well-being.

 

Fast forward to today, I am now a re-certified massage therapist and have continued my education by returning to massage school and earning a certificate in integrative nutrition. This journey has taught me a lot and strengthened my faith. Each activity and experience has brought me fulfillment and joy. Incorporating the pillars of faith, health, and wellness into everything I do has become second nature, and I understand that wellness is the backbone of my life.

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