Navigating the 'Pause: Understanding the Impact that the Hormonal Shifts of Perimenopause and Menopause Have on Well-being

I love listening to podcasts. I listen when I walk the dog, fold laundry, and cook in the kitchen. When I heard this podcast with Dr. Mary Claire Haver, I stopped what I was doing to focus on every word. Dr. Haver stated that most, if not all, of the symptoms I hear about regularly (e.g., memory issues, irritability, weight gain, headaches, anxiety, fatigue, etc.) could be tied to the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause beginning as early as the mid-30s. Yes, you read that correctly…mid 30s!

Health, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueApril 19, 2024menopause, perimenopause, health, self-care

The Power of Small Steps: Why Little Changes Matter in Achieving Better Health

In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, many of us often gravitate towards grand gestures – the radical diets, the intense workout regimens, the dramatic lifestyle overhauls. We're inclined to believe that significant transformations require equally significant efforts. But what if I told you that sometimes, the smallest changes can yield the most significant results?

HealthKelly Forys DonahueApril 3, 2024change, wellness, health

The Health Paradox: Why We Struggle to Do the Things That Make Us Healthy

In an era where wellness trends dominate social media feeds and self-care is touted as paramount, one might expect a surge in healthy living practices. Yet, the reality often contradicts this expectation. Despite our best intentions, many of us find ourselves consistently failing to prioritize actions that promote our well-being. The question arises: why do we struggle to adopt habits that we know are good for us?

Health, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueMarch 27, 2024food, health

Lifestyle Changes to Heal (Not Just Manage) Anxiety

In today's fast-paced world, anxiety has become an increasingly common issue, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The ADAA reports that over 30% of US adults met criteria for an anxiety or depressive disorder in 2023. That doesn’t count all of the people who won’t seek help.

Health, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueFebruary 28, 2024anxiety

Prevention is the Better Option for Burnout

I’ve been in the entrepreneurial space for over a decade now, and I’ve noticed a pattern. But before I begin, I want to note that the information I have gathered here is from newsletters and social media posts publicly available (and I try not to spend too much time on social media!). I do not know these people personally and as always, there is more to the story than what is posted or shared publicly. So with that caveat…

Health, Personal Development, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueFebruary 14, 2024self-care, burn out

Ankylosing What? Healthy Strategies for Coping with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Living with a chronic condition like ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is not just a physical challenge; it also poses significant psychological and emotional hurdles. AS is a form of inflammatory arthritis with an autoimmune component that primarily affects the spine, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. In some cases, the spine can fuse, causing significant stiffness and restrictions in mobility and daily functioning.

Pain, HealthKelly Forys DonahueFebruary 5, 2024chronic health, pain, ankylosing spondylitis

Navigating Post-Holiday Blues

The holiday season, with its festive cheer and gatherings, often leaves us with cherished memories and a sense of joy. However, as the decorations come down and routine sets in, many people find themselves grappling with what is commonly known as the post-holiday blues. This phenomenon is characterized by a dip in mood, energy, and motivation after the holiday festivities come to an end.

Health, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueDecember 25, 2023holidays, stress, self-care

Is pain "all in your head"?

Many of us have had direct feedback or subtle feedback from doctors that the chronic pain we’ve experienced is “all in your head.” We are left feeling shame and helplessness. So, is it true? Is chronic pain “all in your head”? YES and NO. Chronic pain is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on physical and mental health. The pain in your body is real AND you process pain in your brain. So it is in your head, but that’s not the whole story.

Health, PainKelly Forys DonahueAugust 4, 2023pain, stress

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