On healing the gut:

Aloha from Maui,

The island has a certain pulse this time of year—windy days intertwined with sunshine and fresh faces. There’s a certain happiness in the air as the new year unfolds, with people lingering from the holidays, bringing a sense of excitement and zest to the island. This week has been filled with adventure, delicious food, and even better company. My home has been buzzing with the energy of friends visiting, and it’s warmed my heart to share this place with them.  As I mentioned in a recent post, my word for this year is JOY, and spending time with people who inspire me has brought exactly that into my life.

On a different note, I’ve been reflecting on my health and noticing its inconsistency. Some days I feel strong, clear, and grounded, while other days leave me feeling sluggish, heavy, and intensely bloated. Over the past few years, I’ve been tracking what triggers these fluctuations. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with candida, but I didn’t take it seriously at the time. The strict diet felt overwhelming, and I doubted whether candida was a real diagnosis. I kept thinking, there has to be something more.

After countless tests and doctor visits, though, the results consistently show that everything is healthy—so much so that my biological age is 11.7! Yet, the symptoms persist. So, I’ve decided to commit to a candida diet over the next few months. The biggest challenge? No sugar—not even the natural kind like…. bananas!

In the past, I’ve taken short breaks from sugar. While the detox often starts with lethargy and mood dips, I eventually experience a newfound clarity and strength in my body. This progress usually tempts me to reintroduce sugar, thinking I’ve healed, only to find myself back in the same cycle. This time, I believe committing to a longer reset may be the solution I’ve been searching for. I’ll be following a candida protocol for two-three months, and I’m excited to get creative in the kitchen with this super-clean approach to eating. I’ll be sharing recipes and tips along the way—stay tuned for the journey!

5 Things I’m Reading:

5 Things I’m Using

5 Things that brought me Joy:

  • The Maui upcountry farmers market and all the incredible vendors!
  • My new pickelball bag.. i may not be great (yet), but i look good playing, haha.
  • This meme
  • Marissa and her boyfriend Jesse staying with me after a synchronistic meet up in Paia!
  • Soft, silk, full moon sunsets

Recipes i’m loving: