Organic Living and Wellness

02/10/2026

Protecting your health sometimes starts with one simple word: boundaries

Boundaries are not about pushing people away—they are about preserving your internal peace, energy, and wellbeing. Without them, work demands and family expectations can slowly drain your nervous system, leading to chronic stress, resentment, burnout, and emotional exhaustion.

Why boundaries matter for wellness:
• They reduce chronic stress and support nervous system regulation
• They protect mental and emotional energy, improving focus and mood
• They help prevent burnout by creating space for rest and recovery
• They support physical health, as ongoing stress can disrupt sleep, hormones, digestion, and immunity

Common misconceptions often keep people stuck:
• “Setting boundaries is selfish.” In reality, it allows you to show up more present and grounded
• “I should be able to handle it all.” Constant overextension is not a sign of strength—it’s a risk to health
• “Others will be disappointed.” Discomfort is often part of healthy change, not a sign you’re doing something wrong

Healthy boundaries might look like limiting work hours, protecting personal time, saying no without over-explaining, or redefining expectations with family members.

If you find yourself feeling chronically overwhelmed, tense, or depleted, your body may be signaling that boundaries—not more effort—are needed.

Our holistic nurse practitioners support patients in addressing stress patterns, nervous system health, and lifestyle balance as part of whole-person care.

02/02/2026

Mental health impacts how we think, feel, sleep, and function each day. When the body and nervous system are out of balance, symptoms such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and insomnia can arise.

Our holistic nurse practitioners provide personalized mental health support that addresses the whole person, not just symptoms. If you are struggling with mental health reach out today to set up an initial consult or a free discovery call to learn more, but in the mean time check out mental health self-care tips to find some small steps that can make a big impact on mental wellness!

Simple self-care practices can make a meaningful difference, including adequate rest, regular movement, nourishing nutrition, peaceful morning and evening routines, and time for self-reflection.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or not like yourself, support is available.
Schedule a free discovery call with one of our holistic nurse practitioners to explore a care plan designed around your unique needs.

02/02/2026

February 7th-14th is Congenital Heart Defect Awareness week, and feels like the appropriate time to share what's going on in my personal life.

As many of you may already know I struggled with infertility for several years (which is why that's one of the areas I am so passionate about!) After 4 years of infertility and several failed treatments and miscarriages, we finally got a baby to stick! At my 12 week appointment we learned our sweet baby has a very severe congenital heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, which is a fatal condition shortly after birth unless surgical interventions are performed.

Congenital Heart Defects account for about 1% of birth defects annually. CHD is an umbrella with several different defects falling under it, these may include septal defects, obstructive lesions, cyanotic defects, abnormal fetal circulation, valve abnormalities, abnormal chamber development, abnormal cardiac position or structure, coronary artery anomalies, in addition to several even more complex and rare conditions.

Many of these babies need to face multiple open heart surgeries to survive.

Our baby, "Baby Junior" as Savannah calls them (gender and name are a surprise!), will undergo their first surgery within the first week of life, the second surgery between 3-6 months old, and the third surgery at age 3.

We are due in early May and are blessed to have MUSC leading our delivery/ care plan, and we are asking for many prayers as we navigate this!

💓What this means for OLW patients: 💓

Most of you that have already established care with me, are aware of the situation and we have discussed our personalized plan- so this is more applicable for new patients.

I will be conducting my final scheduled patient visits the week of April 20th to avoid potential disruptions in care incase "Baby Junior" decides to make an early appearance.

I will not be "scheduling" regular appointments again until mid-summer after we return home and have a better idea of what the schedule will look like with the baby's appointments but if you have a need please send me a message!

We will also be bringing on some additional team members soon that will be available to help with needs while I am out!

01/29/2026

Rest is not a luxury, it’s a biological necessity and it's foundational for health and wellness!

In a culture that glorifies “burning the candle at both ends,” rest is often misunderstood as laziness or lack of ambition. In reality, chronic overexertion places the body in a prolonged stress state that directly impacts mental and physical health.

Why rest matters:
• Mental health: Adequate rest supports emotional regulation, cognitive clarity, and resilience, helping reduce anxiety, irritability, and depressive symptoms
• Burnout prevention: Without recovery, the nervous system remains in a constant state of activation, increasing exhaustion, overwhelm, and burnout
• Cortisol balance: Chronic stress and insufficient rest can dysregulate cortisol, contributing to fatigue, sleep disruption, mood changes, and blood sugar imbalance
• Digestive health: Rest activates the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous system, improving digestion, nutrient absorption, and gut motility

Common myths about rest:
• “If you're sleeping, you're being unproductive” In truth, rest enhances focus, creativity, and efficiency
• “You can catch up later.” Chronic sleep and recovery debt accumulate and cannot be fully reversed with occasional rest
• “Pushing through is strength.” Sustainable health comes from balance, not constant depletion

Rest is multi-faceted and includes quality sleep, intentional breaks, reduced stimulation, and allowing the body time to recover without guilt.

If you’re feeling depleted, wired-but-tired, or struggling with digestion, mood, or energy, your body may be asking for more support not more effort.

01/28/2026

GI Parasites: What You Should Know

Parasitic infections are more common than many people realize and may contribute to ongoing digestive and systemic symptoms for years before being identified. On average I see 1:4 stool tests come back positive with at least one parasite.

Below are the most commonly identified gastrointestinal parasites, their associated symptoms, and ways to reduce your risk.

Most Common GI Parasites:

1️⃣ Blastocystis hominis
One of the most frequently detected organisms on comprehensive stool testing.

Common symptoms may include:
• Bloating and abdominal distention
• Gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• IBS-like symptoms
• Skin rashes or hives

2️⃣ Giardia lamblia
Often transmitted through contaminated food or water.

Common symptoms:
• Loose or greasy stools
• Foul-smelling gas
• Bloating
• Abdominal cramping
• Fatigue
• Nutrient malabsorption

3️⃣ Dientamoeba fragilis

Associated symptoms:
• Chronic diarrhea or loose stools
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Poor appetite
• Anxiety or mood changes

4️⃣ Entamoeba histolytica
More common with travel or exposure to contaminated food or water.

Possible symptoms:
• Diarrhea or mucus in stool
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• Iron deficiency anemia

5️⃣ Cryptosporidium

Common symptoms:
• Watery diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping
• More severe illness in immunocompromised individuals

6️⃣ Intestinal Worms
(Roundworms, hookworms, pinworms)

Symptoms may include:
• Abdominal discomfort
• Re**al itching (often worse at night)
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Sleep disturbances

Symptoms That May Be Linked to Parasites

• Chronic bloating or gas
• IBS-like symptoms
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Food sensitivities
• Nutrient deficiencies (iron, B12, vitamin A)
• Chronic fatigue
• Skin issues (eczema, rashes)
• Immune dysfunction

Ways to Reduce Risk of Infection

• Wash hands thoroughly
• Wash fruits and vegetables well
• Avoid untreated or unfiltered water
• Cook meat and seafood completely
• Use caution with food and water when traveling
• Avoid walking barefoot in high-risk environments
• Support gut and immune health through nutrition

When to Consider Testing

If you experience persistent digestive symptoms, unresolved IBS, nutrient deficiencies, or fatigue with no clear cause, advanced stool testing may be helpful.

GI-MAP testing uses PCR technology to identify:
• Parasites
• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Fungal overgrowth
• Inflammation and immune markers

This testing often identifies organisms missed on conventional stool studies.

Interested in GI-MAP testing?
Schedule a consult with one of our holistic nurse practitioners to determine whether this test is right for you!
https://organiclivingandwellnessllc.com/book-an-appointment

01/23/2026

Many of us (myself included!) need that first cup of coffee to get the day started, but did you know that coffee is one of the most commonly mold-contaminated foods?! This is due to how beans are grown, fermented, dried, and stored in warm, humid environments.

Common molds in coffee beans:

-Aspergillus
-Penicillium
-Fusarium

These molds may produce mycotoxins including:
-Ochratoxin A (most commonly found in coffee)
-Aflatoxins
- Trichothecenes

Unfortunately Mycotoxins are heat stable which means roasting and brewing do not remove them which is why it is important to choose high quality beans.

Factors that increase mold risk:
-Low-quality beans
-Improper drying or fermentation
-Long storage times
-Humid warehouses
-Pre-ground coffee

Ways to reduce exposure:
-I love to support local coffee shops that roast their beans in house so I know they haven't been sitting in a warehouse or store shelf for long periods of time. If you are local to Anderson, Outsider Coffee has great beans!

-Choose specialty-grade or tested coffee
-Look for brands that perform third-party mycotoxin testing
-Purchase whole beans and grind fresh
-Buy freshly roasted coffee in small batches

Brands known for mold-testing practices include:
Purity Coffee, Bulletproof, Kion, Danger Coffee, Clean Coffee Co., and TrueStart.

Storage tips:
-Store coffee in an airtight container
-Keep away from heat, moisture, and sunlight
-Avoid storing near the stove or refrigerator
-Use within 2–4 weeks of opening

Many people tolerate regular coffee without issue. However, those with mold sensitivity, chronic fatigue, gut issues, brain fog, headaches, or autoimmune conditions may notice symptoms even with low exposure.

Choosing clean, well-sourced coffee and proper storage can significantly reduce risk without needing to give up coffee entirely.

01/20/2026

Chronic stress does not only affect mental health it also has measurable, physical effects on the body.

When the nervous system remains in a prolonged state of activation, multiple body systems can become dysregulated, leading to a wide range of symptoms.

Common physical symptoms of chronic stress:

-Digestive symptoms:
The gut and brain are closely connected through the nervous system. Under chronic stress, digestion is often impaired, which may result in:

* Bloating or excessive gas
* Constipation or diarrhea
* Acid reflux or heartburn
* Abdominal discomfort, nausea, or reduced appetite
* Flares of irritable bowel symptoms or increased food sensitivities

Headaches and migraines:
Stress-related muscle tension, nervous system activation, and hormonal changes can contribute to:

* Tension-type headaches, often described as pressure or tightness in the head, neck, or shoulders
* Migraines, which may include light or sound sensitivity, nausea, or visual disturbances
* Headaches associated with poor sleep, dehydration, or irregular eating patterns

Fatigue and sleep disruption:
Ongoing stress commonly interferes with restorative sleep and energy regulation, leading to:

* Persistent fatigue despite adequate time in bed
* Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
* Frequent nighttime awakenings or early morning waking
* Feeling unrefreshed upon waking

Addressing chronic stress requires supporting the nervous system and restoring healthy daily rhythms:

Sleep hygiene: Maintaining consistent sleep and wake times, minimizing evening screen exposure, and establishing calming bedtime routines

Mindful eating: Eating regular, balanced meals in a relaxed environment to support digestion and blood sugar regulation

Stress management: Incorporating practices such as breathwork, gentle movement, and intentional rest to promote nervous system regulation

Light exposure: Prioritizing morning natural light to support circadian rhythm alignment and limiting artificial light exposure in the evening

These foundational strategies help create the physiological conditions necessary for healing and resilience.

If you are experiencing persistent symptoms related to chronic stress, individualized support can be beneficial in helping you manage your symptoms and regain control of your health.

If you are interested in learning more to see if we are a good fit we offer free 15-minute discovery calls with one of our holistic nurse practitioners. We also recognize the need for flexibility and we offer both in person and virtual appointments across the state of South Carolina. Reach out today to learn more.
https://organiclivingandwellnessllc.com/book-an-appointment

01/18/2026

Neurotransmitters play a key role in mood, focus, motivation, stress response, and sleep. The nutrients we eat provide the building blocks needed for balanced brain chemistry.

-Dopamine (motivation & focus):
• Eggs
• Chicken, turkey, grass-fed beef
• Fish
• Almonds
• Pumpkin & sesame seeds
• Avocados
• Bananas
• Beans & lentils

-Serotonin (mood & emotional balance):
• Turkey & chicken
• Eggs
• Salmon & sardines
• Greek yogurt
• Oats & brown rice
• Pumpkin & sunflower seeds
• Spinach
• Pineapple

-Norepinephrine (energy & alertness):
• Lean meats & fish
• Eggs & dairy
• Legumes
• Nuts & seeds
• Citrus fruits
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Leafy greens

-GABA (calming & sleep support):
• Fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi)
• Green tea
• Bone broth
• Spinach
• Sweet potatoes
• Broccoli
• Lentils
• Almonds & walnuts

-Foundational support:
Adequate protein, stable blood sugar, gut health, key minerals (B vitamins, magnesium, zinc), quality sleep, and stress regulation.

Nutrition plays a powerful role in mental health. If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms, personalized support can help.

01/13/2026

Anxiety doesn’t always look like panic or constant worry. Sometimes it shows up quietly in everyday patterns 👇

• Avoidance– putting off conversations, appointments, or situations that feel overwhelming
• Constant tension – tight shoulders, clenched jaw, headaches, or feeling “on edge” all the time
• Irritability – snapping easily, feeling overstimulated, or having a shorter fuse than usual
• Delaying tasks– knowing what needs to be done, but feeling stuck or unable to start
• Freeze response – feeling mentally or physically shut down when stress hits, even with simple decisions

These are not character flaws or lack of motivation. They’re signs that your nervous system may be under chronic stress and needs support.

Our holistic nurse practitioners take the time to look at the full picture—history, lifestyle, hormones, nutrition, sleep, stress load, and nervous system health to help identify what’s really driving your symptoms and create a personalized plan to restore balance, this may include prescription management, lifestyle modifications, nutrition, exercise, and supplements in addition to local referrals for counseling.

Anxiety is overwhelming and you don’t have to push through this alone!

📅 Schedule a free discovery call or an initial consult today and take the first step toward feeling more grounded, clear, and supported.
Http://Www.OrganicLivingandWellnessLLC.com

11/27/2025

08/26/2025

Eating a diet with a wide variety of colors is beneficial as each fruit and vegetable contain different phytonutrients!
Some of my favorite foods to recommend are berries, cruciferous vegetables, and leafy greens!

08/21/2025

A cup of hot tea is one of my favorite ways to unwind in the evening. I love the adaptogenic blends and the lavender/chamomile blends. Recently, I decided to refill my tea cupboard and add some new teas as herbal teas can have powerful healing properties. If you're tea shopping, consider the benefits each of these can have!