Hey friend,
Even if you don’t have insulin resistance (yet!), it’s so helpful to understand what it is and how to avoid it—because trust me, it can sneak up on anyone.
I honestly never thought insulin resistance would happen to me. But once I started digging deeper, it all made sense. Let’s break it down together (and don’t worry, I’ll share some blood sugar–friendly sweet treats too).
What Is Insulin Resistance (And Why Does It Happen)?
Insulin resistance happens when your cells stop responding properly to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. Instead of using sugar for energy, your body starts storing it—leaving you with blood sugar spikes, crashes, and eventually more serious issues if it’s not addressed.
Here are some common triggers:
- Injury or stress can set it off.
- Poor diet (too much processed food, not enough nutrients).
- Multiple pregnancies—that’s what did it for me.
- And sometimes? It just happens. #life
The good news? There are simple, natural ways to support healthy glucose levels.
My Go-To Tips for Balanced Blood Sugar
1. Essential Oils for Glucose Support
Certain essential oils can help your body stay more balanced after you eat carbs or sugar. I like to take 3–10 drops in a capsule (depending on your size and what you ate).
2. Stock Up on Glucose-Friendly Sweet Treats
Because yes—you can enjoy dessert without wrecking your blood sugar!
Recipe: Lighter Keto Ice Cream
Most keto ice cream recipes rely heavily on heavy whipping cream. But honestly? Most of us already get plenty of fat in our diet. So I lightened mine up with half and half + cottage cheese.
Here’s how to make it:
- 1 part organic half & half
- 1 part mashed cottage cheese (smooth, no lumps)
- Egg yolks (1 per cup of half & half)
- Dash of vanilla
- Optional: cocoa powder to taste
- A few squirts of stevia
Mix thoroughly, then pour into your frozen ice cream bowl (I use the KitchenAid ice cream attachment). In just a few minutes, you’ll have creamy, dreamy, blood sugar–friendly ice cream!
Pro tip: add chopped Chocox keto chocolate for extra yum.
Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cake
This one feels decadent, but it’s gluten-free, sugar-free, and perfect for pairing with your keto ice cream (or even Greek yogurt).
You’ll need:
- 8 large eggs (cold)
- 1 lb dark or semisweet chocolate (sugar-free if possible)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter
- Optional: powdered sugar + fresh berries
Step-by-step:
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Prep your springform pan with parchment + foil.
- Whip eggs in a stand mixer until doubled in volume (about 5 minutes).
- Melt chocolate + butter (gently—don’t overheat).
- Fold eggs into chocolate mixture.
- Pour batter into pan, place in a water bath, and bake 35–40 minutes.
- Chill before serving.
Enjoy! This one is rich, fudgy, and soooo good.
Final Thoughts
Insulin resistance doesn’t have to control your life. With a few smart swaps—like essential oils, and balanced desserts—you can keep your blood sugar steady and enjoy the sweet things in life.
You’ve got this, friend. 💛
Hey Friend,
Before you reach for that next supplement bottle…
Have you tried taking a walk today?
I know, I know—it sounds way too simple to do any real good. But here’s the thing:
Walking is one of the most powerful wellness tools we have—and it’s completely free.
Whether you're overwhelmed, foggy-brained, low on energy, or feeling emotionally heavy, walking can literally shift your chemistry.
🚶♀️ Why Walking Works Wonders for Your Body & Brain
Just 30 minutes of brisk walking, five days a week, has been scientifically linked to:
- 💗 19% lower risk of heart disease
- 💪 Improved blood sugar and insulin levels
- 🔥 Fat burning and reduced belly fat
- 🧠 Sharper brain function and uplifted mood
- 👣 40–50% reduced risk of early death (yes, seriously!)
And it’s not just about the physical benefits.
Walking boosts endorphins, calms your nervous system, and activates BDNF—a miracle protein that protects and grows your brain.
In fact, some studies say a daily walk can be just as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression.
🌿 I can’t count how many days I’ve walked out my front door feeling heavy-hearted, only to return home light, joyful, and renewed.
It’s a miracle… and a ministry.
🌞 How to Turn Your Walk Into Soul Care
Walking doesn’t require a gym. Or a class. Or fancy shoes.
All you need is:
- Your two feet
- A little sunshine
- Time with the Lord (prayer + podcasts count!)
Let’s not overcomplicate wellness.
You were made for peace, not pressure.
🍳 What We Learned From Our Glucose Monitors
My husband and I wear continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) — those little Dexcom patches that track blood sugar in real time.
Here’s what we noticed:
- I eat a simple, protein-rich breakfast every morning.
- He used to skip it and just drink coffee.
👉 Result? My blood sugar stays level.
👉 His? It spikes.
👉 His? It spikes.
Turns out, caffeine + stress + empty stomach = not a great combo for steady energy.
Now that he can see it on the graph, he’s finally eating breakfast with me!
🥚 Simple Protein-Boosting Tips for Morning Balance
Even if you’re not a “breakfast person,” a small protein-rich bite can:
- Stabilize blood sugar
- Wake up metabolism
- Fuel your brain and mood
Think of it like gas in your car—you won’t get far on empty!
Here are some easy protein wins:
✅ Track it – Awareness is step one
🍳 Crack eggs into burger patties or stir-fries
🌱 Stir in seeds (chia, hemp, flax)
🥣 Shake in collagen (Want my protein ice cream recipe? Hit reply!)
🍲 Use bone broth for soups and stews
🍰 Add protein powder to muffins and pancakes
🐟 Snack on seafood like sardines or smoked salmon
🍳 Crack eggs into burger patties or stir-fries
🌱 Stir in seeds (chia, hemp, flax)
🥣 Shake in collagen (Want my protein ice cream recipe? Hit reply!)
🍲 Use bone broth for soups and stews
🍰 Add protein powder to muffins and pancakes
🐟 Snack on seafood like sardines or smoked salmon
🧠 Still Want a Brain Boost? Here’s What I Take
If you’re insistent on a supplement for mental clarity and focus, I alternate between these two:
- Omega 3s – Healthy fats are critical for brain function.
- MindWise – A plant-based blend specifically formulated for brain support.
Would it be awesome to take both every day? Yep.
But even something is better than nothing, right?
I've heard powerful testimonies about MindWise — if you’re curious, reach out and I’ll share more!
🎯 Total Wellness = Habits + Supplements (In That Order!)
Let’s not forget:
Supplements support. Habits transform.
You can’t supplement your way out of bad habits.
But you can walk your way into healing, peace, and energy.
But you can walk your way into healing, peace, and energy.
Today’s Challenge for You:
- Take a walk.
- Eat a little breakfast.
- Add a little protein.
- Smile a little bigger.
- Talk to God as you go.
You’re doing better than you think. 💛
With you every step,
Terri Bonin
Empowering Health One Drop at a Time
My Top 3 Immune Support Must-Haves for Fall & Winter 🍂❄️
Okay friend—let’s talk immune support.
Every fall and winter, I make sure I’ve got my wellness staples stocked and ready to go. Because let’s be honest—prevention is KEY. 💪
I don’t wait until I feel run down to start taking care of my body. Instead, I keep my immune system strong every single day. And after years of trial, error, and mom-life experience… I’ve narrowed it down to my top 3 favorites.
1. Thieves: Daily Support for a Healthy Home + Body 🌿
If I had to pick just one product to keep on hand all year long, it would be Thieves Essential Oil Blend.
- I diffuse it in my home for immune support.
- I use it in DIY cleaners to keep surfaces fresh and toxin-free.
- A drop or two in my wellness roller is a game-changer during the cold months.
Thieves isn’t just an oil—it’s a whole vibe of protection for your home and body.
2. Inner Defense: My Secret Weapon Capsules 💊
These are my powerhouse immune capsules.
Inner Defense is packed with essential oils like oregano, thyme, and (you guessed it) Thieves. When something is going around, these are the capsules I reach for.
Think of it as your strong defense system in a bottle.
3. Super C: Boosting Vitamin C the Natural Way 🍊
Vitamin C is a classic for a reason.
Super C goes beyond your average supplement—it’s formulated for better absorption and gives your body the extra immune-loving support it craves during the colder months.
This one is a staple for me and my family.
Prevention is the Best Medicine 💜
Here’s the deal: staying ahead of the game is so much easier than playing catch-up.
That’s why I always keep Thieves, Inner Defense, and Super C stocked in my wellness cabinet from September through March.
👉 Want help bundling these immune support must-haves? I’ve got you covered!
Feeling unsteady or like the world is spinning around you? You might be experiencing vertigo, a common yet disorienting symptom often linked to your inner ear's balance center. Discover natural ways to support your body through this unsettling experience, including key nutrients and essential oils that can help restore your sense of balance and calm. Learn how simple lifestyle adjustments and targeted supplements can make a significant difference in managing vertigo symptoms. Don't miss out on these gentle, effective strategies to find your footing again.
Read more...
Not Just for Babies: 4 Surprising Ways to Use Seedlings Baby Wipes
Hey friend! 👋
Let’s talk wipes.
Now, the official name is Seedlings Baby Wipes—but if I had it my way, they’d be called:
👉 “Not Just Butts, But So Much More Wipes.”
Apparently the marketing team didn’t love my idea (I can’t imagine why 😂), but trust me… these wipes are PACKED with goodness and way too versatile to stay in the baby aisle.
So today, I’m spilling the tea on why these are hands-down my favorite natural wipes—and the many ways I actually use them.
Why Seedlings Baby Wipes Are a Must-Have 🌿
Let’s start with the basics.
These wipes are:
- Infused with pure lavender essential oil 🌸
- Made with a soft, thick cloth-like texture (none of that papery, fall-apart nonsense)
- Free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and all the other junk you don’t want on your skin
Oh—and did I mention they smell like heaven? 😇 One sniff and you’ll know why I keep them stashed everywhere.
1. Freshen Up Your Laundry 👕👖
Got a stinky load of clothes?
I toss a wipe in the dryer as a natural dryer sheet—and BOOM. Instant freshness without synthetic fragrance.
2. Post-Workout Refresh 💪
We all have those days when a full shower isn’t in the cards.
Enter: Seedlings Baby Wipes. A quick body wipe down after a sweaty workout and I feel human again. Bonus: the lavender scent is calming when I’m already amped up.
3. Natural Makeup Remover 💄
Harsh removers can strip your skin—but these wipes? Gentle. Soothing. Effective.
They swipe away makeup without leaving my skin tight or irritated. Perfect for nights when I just want to crawl into bed.
4. Camping & Travel Essential 👶✈️
On a camping trip, I used them to wipe down messy toddlers before bed. (Let’s be real—sometimes baby wipes are the real MVP of parenting.)
They’re also a travel must-have for sticky fingers, mystery messes, or freshening up when running water isn’t handy.
Clearly Not Just for Babies 🙌💜
So yes, Seedlings Baby Wipes are great for diaper duty. But honestly? They’re just as amazing for grown-ups.
From laundry to workouts, makeup to travel—these wipes do it all.
👉 Have you tried Seedlings Baby Wipes yet? What’s your favorite way to use them?
Peppermint Oil: The Natural Pre-Workout Boost You Didn’t Know You Needed
You know I’m all about keeping things simple and natural—especially when they actually work. And let me tell you, peppermint essential oil totally delivers.
The Science Behind Peppermint and Performance
Get this: athletes who inhaled peppermint oil before working out saw measurable improvements in their performance. We’re talking things like:
- Squeezing out one more pushup (the one that makes you feel like a boss 💁♀️)
- Shaving 2 seconds off a quarter-mile run
- Feeling more motivated overall
✨ The research suggests peppermint works its magic by:
- Relaxing airway muscles
- Boosting oxygen to the brain
- Lowering blood lactate (translation: less burn, more go)
Real Results from Real Athletes
It doesn’t stop there. Studies show even more benefits:
➡️ College athletes who sniffed peppermint while running on a treadmill reported feeling less tired and less frustrated. And honestly—who doesn’t want that during a workout?
➡️ Another group of athletes reported incredible performance stats:
- 50% harder effort
- 20% more power
- 25% longer endurance
Yes, please! 🙌
Why I Love Peppermint Oil for Fitness
Whether you’re training for a goal or just trying to feel strong and energized, peppermint essential oil can give you that little edge. I like to call it my pre-workout without the sketchy ingredients. 😉
It’s natural, it’s affordable, and I bet you already have a bottle sitting in your cabinet.
Ready to Try It?
If you don’t have peppermint yet (or you’ve run out), now’s the time to stock up. You’ll be amazed at what a drop can do.
Natural Support for Nosebleeds: My Go-To Essential Oil
Does anyone in your family deal with nosebleeds? They can feel scary and inconvenient—especially when they pop up out of nowhere. Over the years, I’ve found a natural tool that makes a huge difference for us, and I just have to share.
Why I Reach for Geranium
My go-to is Geranium essential oil. 🌸 Just a couple of drops on a washcloth, held under the nose to inhale (without touching the skin), can work wonders. The aroma is soothing, and in our experience, it helps calm things down quickly.
My First-Hand Experience
I’ll be honest—I didn’t always have Geranium on hand. And let me tell you, when a nosebleed happened and we were without it, I noticed the difference. 😯 That’s when I realized this oil is something I never want to be without. It’s truly wild how well it works!
A Gentle, Natural Option for Families
As a mom, I love finding safe, natural tools that support my family’s wellness without added chemicals or harsh products. Geranium has been a game-changer for us, and it’s one of those oils I always keep stocked.
Want to Try It?
If you’d love to add Geranium to your own natural wellness kit, you can grab it here:
👉 Order Geranium Essential Oil
👉 Order Geranium Essential Oil
Don’t Shoot the Messenger: The Scary Truth About Candles (and What I Use Instead)
Okay, friends—don’t come for me. I love candles too. The flickering flame, the cozy vibes, the pretty aromas that fill the room… it feels like instant atmosphere, right? But here’s the hard truth: burning a candle for just two hours can be the same as smoking a pack of cigarettes. Yep. According to Dr. Andrew Sledd, an environmental toxicology specialist, candles release toxins you definitely don’t want in your lungs.
The Hidden Dangers of Candle Wicks
Here’s something I wish I had known sooner: about 40% of candles are made with wicks containing lead. And breathing in lead particles is a big no-no for your health (especially for little lungs in your home).
I had no idea my “cozy candle moments” were actually filling the air with toxins. Yikes.
My Wake-Up Call as a Mom
When I was a young stay-at-home homeschool mom, I lit candles every single morning to set the mood for our day. It felt nurturing and beautiful… but during that season, my kids had chronic lung issues.
I tried everything to help—doctor visits, natural remedies, you name it. It wasn’t until much later that I finally connected the dots: the candles I loved so much were actually tearing down our health.
And here’s the wild part: when I ditched the candles and switched to diffusers with clean essential oil blends, my kids’ lung issues literally cleared up overnight. Overnight!
Why I’ll Never Go Back
My heart sinks when I think about how long it took me to discover this. My intention was never to harm my family—I just wanted a peaceful, cozy home. But now that I know better, I’m committed to doing better.
Diffusers give me everything I wanted from candles—beautiful aroma, relaxing atmosphere, cozy vibes—without the toxins. It feels so good knowing I’m filling my home with something safe.
Make the Switch (and Fall in Love With It)
If you’ve been side-eyeing your candle stash after reading this, don’t panic. There’s such a simple swap that will change everything: start with the Simplified Essential Oil Blends.
👉 They’re easy to use.
👉 They smell amazing.
👉 And they’re 100% free from the junk hiding in most candles.
👉 They smell amazing.
👉 And they’re 100% free from the junk hiding in most candles.
This fall, I’m especially obsessed with the Pumpkin Spice and Cozy Chai blends—because we all deserve that seasonal vibe without the toxic trade-off.
