<![CDATA[Balms and Manna - Blog]]>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 07:09:34 -0600Weebly<![CDATA[Seriously? Sleep Does That!]]>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 12:30:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/seriously-sleep-does-thatSeriously? Sleep Does That!

We've all probably heard it. That we should get eight hours of sleep every night and how good sleep is for you. But have you actually tried it? 

Not that I was a skeptic by any means. I know that sleep is greatly beneficial to your health. But getting to bed by 10:00 always felt like effort. And that meant that sleep had to be enough of a priority to make the effort.  So I started a sleep challenge with an accountability partner. If I was in bed by 10:00, I got to put a sticker on my calendar. That might sound childish, but truly it's the visual tracking of the process that made it motivating. ​
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After a month of tracking and prioritizing my sleep, this is what I discovered:

Better energy!  It felt amazing to be able to get out of bed feeling rested!
More motivation! No more scrolling, eating or shopping to avoid the hard tasks.
Better focus!  It was incredible how much I got done!
Less brain fog!  such a gift being present with my friends and family and at work.

You know when you see results, it's easier to keep going? I wasn't going to stop after this much success! I wasn't expecting anything more. But in another month I had....

Lost weight! Woohoo!!
Less cravings! It felt so good to not be fighting the food monster all the time. 

Yes, sleep is medicine!

​And if sleep is still hard for you- if you need support, strategies and want to get to the root, my 180 Days to Wellness is a place you can find personalized food and supplement plans, someone to walk with you and answers instead of guessing! 

Let's talk! I offer a FREE Discovery Call to see if we are a good fit! 
]]><![CDATA[The One Thing That Will Change Your Weight, Energy and Digestion!]]>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 12:30:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/the-one-thing-that-will-change-your-weight-energy-and-digestion The One Thing That Will Change Your Weight, Energy and Digestion!
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"Sleep is the single most effective thing you can do to rest your brain and body for health" -Dr. Mathew Walker. Better sleep equals a better you!
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No amount of change to your diet and exercise will create lasting physical health if you aren't getting good sleep! It's like rowing upstream in a boat with a leak in it. 

Not getting enough sleep causes:
  • Decreased energy levels
  • Weakened gut
  • Disrupted hormones
  • Weak immune system
  • Decreased brain function (stress, anxiety, memory)
  • Less emotional regulation
  • Weight gain
  • More cravings


Getting enough sleep involves realizing the value of it and making it a priority. Set a bedtime and work backward to tackle obstacles. 

  • Start your bedtime routine earlier so you have enough time.
  • Leave social plans in enough time to do your bedtime routine.
  • If needed, create a tracking or accountability plan. 


Getting deeper and more restful sleep involves little changes you make throughout your day. Tips for restorative sleep:
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  • Morning exercise - 20 minutes of morning sunlight boost circadian rhythms 
  • Deep breathing- Deep breathing activates the vagus nerve and calms the nervous system 
  • Regular sleep and wake times - Go to bed and get up within 1 hour of your set time
  • Establish a bedtime routine- reading, journaling, prayer and listening to music
  • Turn off screens at least 1 hour before bed- Blue light limits melatonin, which makes it hard to fall asleep and you wake early
  • Turn off Wifi at night- EMF (electromagnetic frequencies) causes poor sleep, impacts cortisol and disrupts blood sugar balance
  • Sleep in a dark, cool room
  • Don't eat 2-3 hours before sleeping- If you go to bed full, your body will spend time digesting rather than repair, restoring and detoxing
  • Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep every night

If sleep is still something you struggle with and have tried all these things, let's talk! Targeted functional testing can uncover roots and give you answers that you are searching for. 

Stop guessing and start testing! Schedule a discovery call! 
]]><![CDATA[Is Stress Taking Over? Easy Signs to Measure Your Stress]]>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/is-stress-taking-over-easy-signs-to-measure-your-stressIs Stress Taking Over? Easy Signs to Measure Your Stress!

​Life is stressful! Busy schedules, the drive to have more, pressure to keep up, broken and difficult relationships, emotional poverty, toxins surrounding us in the air and our homes..... we all know the feeling. 

And yet sometimes, because this is all such a part of life, we don't even realize how stressed we are. It's easy to become calloused to what our bodies are telling us. Or just accept the symptoms of stress as "normal". 

The first stages of stress is when our bodies perceive a stressor and responds to it. This can be manifested in any of the following ways. The more symptoms we have, the greater our stress is. 

SYMPTOMS OF STRESS
  • Exhaustion
  • Alcohol Intolerance
  • Anxiety
  • Digestive Issues
  • Dry and Thin Skin
  • Hair Loss
  • Brain Fog
  • Fungal Infections
  • Thyroid Imbalances
  • Low Body Temperature
  • Pain in the Shoulders
  • Poor Memory
  • Weakness
  • Weight Gain/Loss
  • Allergies
  • Blood Sugar Imbalances
  • Decreased Sex Drive
  • Cravings- Especially Sweet and Salty
  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Mood Swings
  • PMS
  • Sinus Problems
  • Depression
  • Dizziness Upon Standing
  • Sick Often/ Frequent Infections
  • Inflammation
  • Low Blood Pressure
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Sleep Issues

Well, how did you do?

If you have more than 10, it's time to take action!

​Stress, when not addressed, becomes chronic and the body's reserves become depleted. All body functions become compromised and lead to chronic diseases and autoimmune issues from which a weakened body has a reduced chance to recover. ​
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Stress is one of the largest root causes to all health challenges and the biggest impact on wellness. If you are going to do one thing to change your health, this is where to start! 

Find out where your body is in the stress response, your unique causes of stress and specific things you can do to address your stress inside my 180 Days to Wellness! 

Check out the details or schedule a Discovery Call to get started!
]]><![CDATA[Tired of Feeling Tired?]]>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/tired-of-feeling-tiredTired of Feeling Tired? Find yourself reaching for an extra cup of coffee? Or dread that afternoon slump that makes you want to take a nap? 

Life is stressful. No one is exempt from it. But it doesn't have to drag us down!

Whether it's physical, emotional, financial, relational or chemical stress, our bodies all perceive it as stress. Our bodies are created to respond to stress and adjust things so that we can keep functioning as optimally as we should. 
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There is a process in our body called the Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal (HPA) axis that regulates stress. It's how our body takes the signal from the brain and directs it to the adrenal glands (our stress hormones). 

Our adrenal glands are tiny but amazing! They release cortisol which increases glucose in the blood stream for more energy, suppresses the immune system and slows digestion. The adrenal glands also release adrenaline to keep the body vigilant and able to deal with stress by prompting alertness and increasing blood flow to the skeletal muscles.  It also increase blood pressure, heart rate and cholesterol.

​When cortisol levels get high, the body is designed to shut off this response to allow our hormones to return to normal levels. With chronic stress, we become resistant to this shut off response which leads to the adrenal glands over producing hormones. Over time the body's resources become depleted leading to chronic fatigue and overwhelm. 

If you are tired of feeling tired, it might be your body telling you that this process isn't working like it should! Your adrenals need some serious support. 

Saliva testing is very helpful to get a baseline to see how your body is responding to stress and identify root causes to stress.  With a list of root causes and a custom protocol to address stress, you can be more energetic, happy and back to yourself again soon!

Contact me to set up a Discovery call to learn about root cause testing and options for stress! 
Work With Me!
]]><![CDATA[Know Something is Wrong In Your Gut But Can't Get to the Bottom of it?]]>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:30:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/know-something-is-wrong-in-your-gut-but-cant-get-to-the-bottom-of-itWHY DO A STOOL TEST? 
Do you have unpredictable gas that hinders you from going out with friends? 

Always have to know where the bathroom is "just in case"?

Bloating that nothing seems to help?

Spend way more time sitting on the toilet than you want to?
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Have reoccuring pain in your stomach that keeps you from feeling your best? 

Ever wondered if there was a way to "see" inside your gut? To find out what might be causing those persistent, annoying digestive issues? But without an invasive, costly procedure? 

There is a way! Stool testing is a simple at home test that will give insights into many components of gut health. ​
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STOOL TESTING
Stool testing gives you a comprehensive look at overall gut health including:
  • levels of good bacteria
  • overgrowths of unfriendly bacteria
  • nutrient absorption
  • liver health
  • integrity of your gut lining
  • ​sensitivity to gluten
  • immune function
  • inflammation

The GI MAP (Gastro Intestinal Microbial Assay Plus) is a specific type of stool testing. It relies  on quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, fungi, and other microbes, by targeting the specific DNA of the organisms tested. This removes human error and tests for anaerobic microbes. 

HOW IT WORKS:
The test collection kit is shipped to you. You simply collect your stool and use the provided tools to gather some of it into a specimen vial. This vial is sent back to labs in the provided, prepaid envelope and is then analyzed.

Learn more about stool testing and how it can benefit you! Schedule a discovery call and we'll dive deeper into your specific gut health! ​
]]><![CDATA[You Are What you Absorb, Not What You Eat.]]>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:30:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/you-are-what-you-absorb-not-what-you-eatYOU'VE MAYBE HEARD THE SAYING, YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT. 
You can eat all the right things but if you don't absorb them what good is it? 

That can feel discouraging! Not only that but you start to see it but you feel it it too. Hair loss. Blood sugar imbalances. Gut issues. Constant fatigue. Always hungry. This can feel not just discouraging but concerning! 

How do I know if I am not absorbing? 

There are markers on functional lab tests that point absorption. Blood tests, stool tests and mineral tests are all good tests to look at how well you absorb. You need someone trained in functional lab tests to help you go through your results to identify areas of weakness that need support. 

Proteins and fats are two of the main macro nutrients that people struggle to absorb. Though you can still be struggling to absorb these nutrients without physical signs, here are a few ways to identify if you might not be absorbing fats and proteins. 

Poor protein absorption- undigested food in stool and/or a heavy feeling in the stomach after eating
Poor fat absorption - floating stools and/or not tolerating greasy foods well
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How to support better break down and absorption of your food:

1- Eating mindfully. Eat slower, chew your food more and don't eat while driving, standing or in front of a screen. The more you chew your food, the more it gets broken down.

2- Drink 1 tsp of raw apple cider vinegar in water BEFORE meals. This stimulates the production of stomach acid which helps to break down your food. 

3- Take several deep breaths before eating. The less stressed (and more present you are) when you eat, the more calm and ready your digestive system is to receive and digest your food. 

3- Take enzymes. Enzymes help break down sugars, proteins, fats, carbs, lactose, etc. The lower your level of enzymes, the less your food will break down and the less you can absorb. Terrazyme is a enzyme supplement to support your body's natural levels of enzymes. 

Absorption of nutrients, especially fats and proteins, affect so many things! Memory, focus, skin, cardiovascular health, hair growth, liver health, hormones, weight loss, energy and inflammation. It's so much bigger than just what you eat! 

Don't wait until it becomes an alarming issue! Get your levels checked before they get out of hand. 

Schedule a free discovery call today to talk about how functional testing can point you in the right direction of supporting your body and feeling like yourself again! ​
Schedule a Discovery Call
]]><![CDATA[How is Hashitmoto's Different Than Hypothyroid?]]>Mon, 04 May 2026 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/how-is-hashitmotos-different-than-hypothyroidHOW IS HASHIMOTO'S DIFFERENT THAN HYPOTHYROID?
Maybe you've wondered if you have thyroid issues. You certainly can relate to low energy, difficulty losing weight, brain fog and mood issues. 

It all seems to point to low thyroid even though your doctor says your labs look fine. But then you hear about Hashimoto's. Now you are confused. Is it low thyroid or Hashimoto's? And what really is Hashimoto's?
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Both Hashimoto's and hypothyroidism are a low functioning thyroid. Hashimoto's is different from hypothyroidism because of the auto immune root cause. 

Thyroid autoimmune conditions are tested by looking at thyroid antibodies (TPO and TG) which can be done through a blood test. When testing for any thyroid disfunction, make sure you have a full thyroid panel done which tests TSH, T3, T4 and Reverse T3. 

This may all feel overwhelming but auto immune conditions don't have to be scary! When you identify and address the root causes, the body can shift out of a state of attacking itself. With proper testing, nutrition and lifestyle choices, you can be feeling like yourself again! 

Join my 180 Days to Wellness program for comprehensive root cause testing, personalized protocols and support and guidance with every step of your journey! 

Schedule a free Discovery Call today to learn more! 
]]><![CDATA[How Do I Know If I Have a Thyroid Problem?]]>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-a-thyroid-problem

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A THYROID PROBLEM? 
As toxins increase, our food becomes less nutrient dense and the pace of our world and lives speeds up, it's not surprising that thyroid challenges are becoming more and more common.

Maybe you've wondered if some of the nagging, annoying symptoms you've been having are a result of your thyroid.
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The thyroid's main function is to regulate metabolism. This includes how quickly the body uses energy, makes proteins and regulates body temperature. When the thyroid isn't functioning optimally, you either have hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) or hyperthyroidism (high thyroid function).

Blood serum tests are the best way to really see what's going on. But here's a quick list of common symptoms of either hypo or hyper thyroid.

Hypothyroidism
  • Dry, coarse hair
  • Thinning hair
  • Brittle nails
  • Loss of outer third of eyebrows
  • Puffy face
  • Slow heart beat
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain
  • Arthritis
  • Cold intolerance
  • Dry skin
  • Muscle cramps, stiffness and joint pain
  • Heavy menstrual periods
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Infertility


Hyperthyroidism
  • Weight loss
  • Palpitations
  • Sweating
  • Heat intolerance
  • Warm, moist palms
  • Frequent bowel movements
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Infrequent or scant menstrual periods
  • Fatigue
  • Increased appetite
  • Infertility
  • Insomnia
  • Bulging eyes
  • Rapid Heartbeat

If these lists resonate with you and you are suspicious of poor thyroid function, there is a solution! With a simple blood test, you can have a better idea of where your thyroid function is.

Schedule a discovery call to learn about not only the testing that is available through my 180 Days to Wellness but also how together we will identify your root causes of these symptoms and help you on your way to being more energetic and feeling like yourself again! ​
SCHEDULE YOUR DISCOVERY CALL
]]><![CDATA[Detox Your Hormones: How to Tackle Xenoestrogens Effectively]]>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/detox-your-hormones-how-to-tackle-xenoestrogens-effectivelyDETOX YOUR HORMONES: HOW TO TACKLE XENOESTROGENS EFFECTIVELY
Hormones are complicated things! And absolutely necessary to be in balance to feel good. While there are many things that could be hijacking your hormones, endocrine disruptors on a major one. Let's take a deeper look. ​
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​Xenoestrogens are specific endocrine disruptors that are false estrogens that mimic estrogen. Because of this, xenoestrogens fit in the same receptor sites as estrogen which block the estrogen from being received and can increase the levels of estrogen in the body. Over time, xenoestrogens not only block receptor sites but can damage them as well. 

This specific class of endocrine disruptors are found in conventional dairy, microwave use, plastics (especially when heated), non-organic soy and fragrances.

There are several ways to support healthy xenoestrogen levels in the body. One is to remove the amounts entering the body by avoiding the previously mentioned sources. Another way is to help the body break down and remove the current levels.
  • Flaxmeal- binds with estrogen to help remove it from the body
  • Liver support- the liver removes excess hormones. Milk thistle or dandelion products are great for the liver.
  • Cruciferous veggies- these contain diiodolymethane or DIM which improves estrogen metabolism

Tired of dealing with mood swings, PMS, low energy, poor sleep and digestive discomfort? Curious if you have excess estrogen or endocrine disruptors are the cause of your hormone imbalance? Test, don't guess!

Schedule a discovery call to learn more about testing and start feeling like yourself again!
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SCHEDULE A FREE DISCOVERY CALL
]]><![CDATA[Why Your Minerals May Be Key to Better Hormonal Health!]]>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.balmsandmanna.com/blog/why-your-minerals-may-be-key-to-better-hormonal-healthWHY YOUR MINERALS MAY BE KEY TO BETTER HORMONAL HEALTH!
Are you tired of feeling yucky and searching for answers to fix your hormone challenges? Has your journey been full of trial and error and sorting through the many voices out there? I know how frustrating this can be! 

Everyone deserves to have someone who listens, cares and is trustworthy to guide them to answers and results! I am here to teach, educate and support you to have the health you desire. ​
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One of the major root causes for hormone imbalances is mineral deficiencies. Minerals are the spark plugs of our bodies. They make our cells run and are the foundation on which our body works. Because so much of the endocrine system depends on minerals, when you have better mineral balance you have better functioning hormones.

A Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) is a functional test that shows stored minerals in the tissue and reveals excess or deficiencies of both macro and micro minerals. 

The difference between a HTMA and a blood lab test is that a blood test only shows levels circulating in the blood where a HTMA shows what is stored. Often excess minerals are stored in the tissues to protect our bodies from excess levels. 

Why get an HTMA?

Because it gives you information about:
  • Liver Problems
  • Fatigue and Adrenal Dysfunction
  • Thyroid Issues
  • Blood Sugar Imbalances
  • Hormonal Challenges
  • Reactivity to Stress
  • Digestive Problems
  • Heavy Metal Toxicity

Why I love this test:
  • Easy & non-invasive
  • Affordable
  • One of the best foundations to begin hormone balance
  • Provides so much information

How it works:
  • Collect a very small sample of scalp hair which is mailed to the lab
  • Schedule a consultation with me to review the results (the effectiveness of the test is highly dependent upon correct interpretation of the results)
  • Create a individualized plan including recipes, diet suggestions and lifestyle recommendations

Want to know how your minerals are impacting your hormone health? Schedule a FREE Discovery Call to talk through your health challenges and see if we are a good fit. 
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SCHEDULE A FREE DISCOVERY CALL
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