Let’s talk about stress.

If you’ve been feeling wired, tired, or like your body just isn’t bouncing back the way it used to—you’re not alone.

In this issue, we’re breaking down how stress shows up in the body (in ways you might not expect) and sharing 4 easy, vibrant bowls to help you nourish your way back to balance.

First, What Stress Does to Your Body?

Chronic stress affects nearly every system:

• Hormones: Elevated cortisol can throw off your thyroid, sex hormones, and cause fatigue, weight gain, or mood issues.
• Digestion: Stress slows digestion, causing bloating, reflux, and even gut inflammation.
• Immune system: It weakens your defenses, leaving you more prone to illness.
• Blood sugar & weight: It triggers cravings and fat storage—especially around the belly.
• Mood & brain health: Lowers serotonin and dopamine, increasing anxiety, brain fog, and low mood.

Support Your Stress Response Naturally

• Prioritize sleep (your reset button)
• Try breathwork, nature time, or gentle movement
• Add stress-supportive nutrients (magnesium, B vitamins, adaptogens)
• Eat in a way that nourishes and stabilizes your body

4 Nourishing Bowls to Help You De-Stress

These meals are colorful, nutrient-dense, and easy to prep—a perfect way to support your body when life feels chaotic.

Fish Taco Bowl

• Base: Brown or cauliflower rice
• Protein: Grilled halibut
• Veggies: Cabbage slaw, avocado, salsa verde
• Top with: Cilantro, sprouts, radishes

🐟 Omega-3s support mood and reduce inflammation.

Chickpea & Quinoa Bowl

• Base: Quinoa
• Protein: Chickpeas
• Veggies: Cucumber, tomato, bell pepper, avocado
• Dressing: Hummus or vinaigrette

🌱 Rich in fiber and magnesium—both calming nutrients.

Grilled Chicken Curry Bowl

• Base: Quinoa
• Protein: Grilled chicken
• Veggies: Corn, tomatoes, carrots, cucumber
• Greens: Arugula or baby kale
• Dressing: Homemade curry vinaigrette

🍛 Curry spices can help reduce inflammation and support digestion.

Summer Salad Bowl

• Base: Mixed greens
• Toppings: Peach, cucumber, tomato, red onion, chickpeas, quinoa, mozzarella, avocado
• Dressing: Peach-basil vinaigrette

🍑 A cooling, refreshing bowl for hot days and busy minds.

Quick Tips

• Batch-cook grains and proteins
• Use pre-washed greens or frozen veggies
• Add mood-boosters like nuts, seeds, olives, or fermented foods

Final Thought

Stress may be a part of life—but burnout isn’t. With rest, support, and meals that truly nourish you, your body can find its way back to balance.