The Diet That Changed Everything — And Why I’ll Never Go Back

There’s something fascinating (and frustrating) about getting older: you start to notice the fads you once lived through coming back around.

When I was 11, I was put on my first diet. At the time, I was a healthy young girl approaching puberty, and like so many, my body was changing. My parents, doing the best they could with the knowledge they had, followed what was popular — and that was the Atkins diet. High animal protein, minimal vegetables, no fruit. I won’t get into the specifics, because that’s not the point.

The point is what it did to my relationship with food and with myself. Something in me clicked: I started to believe that restriction equaled worth. That smaller was better. That if I could just control what I ate, I’d be accepted, desirable, successful. Growing up in the Britney Spears, low-rise jeans, and tabloid-fueled “body shaming” era only cemented that belief.

That early imprint followed me for years. For two decades, I lived in cycles of restriction, self-criticism, and the nagging belief that I was never quite “enough.” Even when I was at my smallest, it still wasn’t good enough.

But that was then.

Now — after years of self-work, learning, unlearning, and healing — things are different. I’ve come home to my body. I’ve rebuilt my relationship with food. I eat with joy. I eat to nourish and to heal. It’s not always perfect, but I’ve created a feedback loop based on abundance rather than scarcity. I know what it feels like to eat in a way that makes me feel alive and strong.

And yet, despite all this personal healing, I still see it happening — women being targeted, sold to, and made to feel “less than” by diet culture in its ever-evolving disguise.

The cycle repeats.

The Dukan Diet has been replaced by “high-protein everything” and cottage cheese obsessions. Appetite suppressants have morphed into injections like Ozempic. The messaging is the same: quick fixes, shortcuts, magic pills. But none of it addresses the root cause — the relationship you have with yourself and your body.

These shortcuts may work for a moment, but eventually, the weight comes back. The habits return. The shame deepens. And the cycle repeats.

Diets don’t work. Neither do most drugs. What works is the real work: small, consistent steps, taken daily, with patience and compassion. One percent better every day.

This — this history repeating itself — is why I do what I do.

I want women who are tired of dieting, tired of chasing, tired of self-loathing, to find me. To find a coach who understands, who’s lived it, who’s made her mess her message, who has written books on it and dedicated her life to helping others break free.

Returning home to your body is possible. True health, true balance, and true freedom are within reach.

You don’t have to drown in the noise of quick fixes, Instagram trends, and ungrounded promises.

I am here — as a guide, a support, and someone who knows exactly what it feels like to be lost, and exactly how it feels to come home.

If you’re ready to break the cycle and build something real, I would love to work with you.

Let’s find your way back to balance — together.

Pea and mint dip

Pea and mint dip

You only get one body—it’s with you for life, and it’s your responsibility to care for it as you would any other precious thing you own. Your body has already carried you through so much, and even if you haven’t always prioritized your health, change is always possible. You’re never too far gone, and it’s never too late to see results. Sustainable change takes time, and patience is key, but even two weeks of mindful choices—nourishing your body and cutting out harmful foods—can bring noticeable shifts in energy, mental clarity, and even weight loss.

Store-bought dips are often packed with thickeners, foaming agents, and preservatives to extend shelf life and bulk up the product. This homemade version, however, is rich in peas, which are loaded with vitamin K and folate—essential for heart health. They’re also an excellent source of vitamin C, giving your immune system a natural boost. Simple to make and packed with goodness, this dip is a delicious, nutrient-dense addition to your table.

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 5 minutes


Ingredients:

3 cups fresh or frozen peas

zest and juice of ½ lemon

2 tablespoons tahini

1 clove garlic 

¼ cup packed fresh mint leaves

3 tablespoons olive oil 

salt and pepper 


Instructons:

If using fresh peas, skip this step. If you are using frozen peas, add them to a large bowl with boiling water, just enough to cover them. Let them blanch for about 3 minutes. Once ready, drain and add them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the water and set aside. 

Place the lemon zest and juice, tahini and garlic into a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Add the peas, mint, olive oil and salt and pepper and blend until smooth or until you have reached your desired consistency. You can leave it a bit chunky but make sure it’s well combined.

Serve as a dip with freshly chopped vegetables or on toast with sliced tomato and black pepper. I keep this in the fridge as a go-to snack and it is great to add to your meal prep. It’s high in protein and will keep you fuller for longer!

-Melissa


How a schedule has helped me as a freelancer

The Power of Structure in Freelance Life

Freelancing offers incredible freedom — setting your own rules, choosing your projects, and working from wherever you like. But with that freedom can come chaos. Over time, I’ve learned that a little structure is key to thriving as a freelancer. It’s not always easy but being gentle on myself and remembering that habits are formed with practise can really help support breaking out into your own freelance career.

Embracing a schedule hasn’t stifled my creativity — it’s given me focus, clarity, and the space to be more intentional with my time. Here’s how it’s changed the game for me:

1. Time on Your Side
A schedule helps me prioritize, ensuring deadlines don’t sneak up on me. I’ve learned to lean into my most productive hours, giving my best energy to demanding tasks when I’m at my sharpest.

2. Creating Balance
Freelancers often blur the lines between work and downtime. Setting clear boundaries has been essential — time for work, rest, family, and myself now has a place in my day.

3. Building Trust
A structured schedule means I can clearly communicate my availability with clients, building trust and stronger relationships. It also ensures I set aside time for networking — an invaluable part of sustaining exciting opportunities.

4. Easing the Overwhelm
Knowing what’s on my plate each day removes the mental load of constantly deciding what to tackle next. It’s a simple shift that’s dramatically reduced stress and improved my focus.

5. Staying on Track
Having a schedule keeps me accountable to my goals. Tracking progress feels effortless, and hitting milestones has become a rewarding part of my routine.

Finding Freedom in Structure
Freelancing doesn’t have to feel chaotic. For me, a schedule is less about restriction and more about creating the space I need to thrive — personally and professionally. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, a little structure might be just what you need to unlock your flow.

I hope this helps in moments of struggle in finding your pace as a freelancer. I always come back to my why and I rest in that when I feel lost or unsure. Combined with the above guidance you’ll be off in no time creating the life and career you dream of!

-Melissa

Krabi night Market, Thailand

Krabi night Market, Thailand
Krabi night Market, Thailand
Krabi night Market, Thailand
Krabi night Market, Thailand
Krabi night Market, Thailand
Krabi night Market, Thailand
Krabi night Market, Thailand

Imagine the scent of sizzling street food, the vibrant hues of market stalls, and the lively hum of chatter under a starlit sky. Welcome to the Krabi Night Market, a gastronomic haven in the heart of Thailand. In this blog post, we'll explore the vibrant world of Krabi's night market, from the delectable dishes you must try to top tips for an unforgettable experience.

Krabi Night Market Unveiled

The Krabi Night Market, nestled in the town of Krabi, is a culinary treasure trove that comes alive as the sun sets. This bustling market is a sensory delight, offering a plethora of Thai street food, local crafts, and a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Thailand.

What to Eat: A Gastronomic Adventure

Pad Thai: Start your culinary journey with the classic Pad Thai. This iconic Thai dish combines stir-fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, or chicken, all brought to life with a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Satay: Satay skewers are a beloved street food. Tender morsels of grilled meat, usually chicken or beef, are served with a luscious peanut sauce and a side of cucumber-onion salad.

Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad): This zesty salad is a symphony of flavors. Shredded green papaya, tomatoes, chilies, peanuts, and lime juice create a spicy and refreshing dish that's perfect for cooling down on warm Krabi nights.

Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in Mango Sticky Rice. Sweet, ripe mango slices served on a bed of coconut-infused glutinous rice, drizzled with rich coconut cream—it's pure bliss.

Grilled Seafood: Freshly caught seafood is in abundance. From prawns to fish, you'll find it all. Have it grilled with Thai herbs and spices for a taste of the ocean.

Top Tips for Krabi Night Market

Arrive Early: The market gets crowded quickly, so it's a good idea to arrive early to beat the rush and secure a spot at your favorite food stall.

Cash Is King: Most vendors accept cash only, so make sure to carry enough Thai Baht for your culinary adventure.

Try Everything: Embrace the spirit of adventure and try dishes you've never had before. You might discover a new favorite!

Be Adventurous with Spice: Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and heat. If you can handle spice, don't hesitate to ask for your dish "spicy."

Practice Hygiene: Look for vendors who prioritize cleanliness and food safety. It's essential to enjoy your meal without worry.

Haggle at the Craft Stalls: If you're interested in local crafts or souvenirs, don't be afraid to haggle. Bargaining is part of the market culture.

The Krabi Night Market is not just a place to eat; it's an experience that immerses you in the vibrant tapestry of Thai culture and cuisine. As you savor the flavors, soak in the atmosphere, and explore the stalls, you'll find yourself falling in love with the enchanting world of Krabi's night market. So, when you find yourself in Thailand, don't miss the chance to embark on this culinary adventure under the stars. Happy feasting!

-Melissa

Cooking from scratch, a self love revolution

Cooking from scratch is one of the most profound acts of self-care. In a world that glorifies convenience, fast fixes, and ultra-processed foods, slowing down to prepare a meal from whole, nourishing ingredients is a quiet rebellion—a way to reclaim your health, reconnect with your body, and nourish yourself deeply.

Food is more than just fuel; it is information for your body, affecting everything from your gut health to your mood, hormones, and long-term well-being. Dr. Mark Hyman, a pioneer in functional medicine, often says that food isn’t just calories; it’s medicine. The quality of what we eat determines how well our bodies function, and when we choose to cook from scratch, we take control of that quality. By selecting whole, unprocessed ingredients, we naturally eliminate the industrialized additives, preservatives, and chemicals that have infiltrated the modern diet—many of which are now linked to inflammation, metabolic disorders, and chronic disease.

Plant-based foods, particularly those high in fiber, play a significant role in hormonal balance, especially for women. Our hormones are delicate messengers, responding not just to what we eat but also to how we live. Fiber-rich vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds help to regulate blood sugar levels, support gut microbiota, and assist the body in metabolizing excess hormones. While plant-based eating offers incredible benefits, it is also essential to honor bio-individuality. For some, incorporating small amounts of high-quality, ethically sourced animal products can be beneficial. The key is to listen to your body, meet yourself where you are, and prioritize nutrient density over dietary dogma.

Cooking from scratch also encourages a connection with nature and the seasons. When we step away from processed foods, we naturally lean into fresh, whole ingredients that shift throughout the year. Seasonal eating not only enhances flavor and nutrition but also aligns us with the rhythms of nature, supporting our body's natural cycles. A summer tomato, bursting with sweetness and vibrant color, is entirely different from one grown in a hothouse in the middle of winter. By choosing local, seasonal produce, we nourish ourselves in a way that is sustainable, both for our health and the planet.

Beyond physical nourishment, cooking is an act of presence. It teaches patience, creativity, and mindfulness. When we chop, stir, and season with intention, we become more attuned to our food and, in turn, to ourselves. This kind of attention allows us to develop a deeper relationship with what we eat, shifting the focus from restriction and guilt to nourishment and enjoyment. Counting chemicals instead of calories is a powerful mindset shift—one that prioritizes quality over quantity and encourages a more intuitive, balanced approach to eating.

Ultimately, disease is often a symptom, while lifestyle is the cause. The modern diet, filled with artificial ingredients and devoid of nutrients, has contributed to the rise of many preventable illnesses. But by returning to whole, real food, we give our bodies the tools they need to heal and thrive. Cooking from scratch is not about perfection or extravagance; it is about empowerment. Whether you have five minutes or fifty, whether your budget is tight or abundant, there is always a way to bring more whole foods into your life. It starts with small, intentional choices—choosing an apple over a packaged snack, making soup from scratch instead of buying a canned version, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the ingredients on your plate.

Food is a gift. When we embrace cooking as an act of self-love rather than a chore, we transform not only our health but also our relationship with nourishment itself. Eating well isn’t about restriction; it’s about abundance—the abundance of flavors, nutrients, and the deep satisfaction that comes from truly taking care of yourself. And that, more than anything, is what real wellness looks like.