As a West Coast native now residing in New England for the past 13 years, I find myself reflecting on the twists and turns of my life. I now have the roles of a wife and mother, living in the present, but often my mind wanders to the days of my childhood, growing up in the free-spirited 80s with the ocean as my constant daydream. My brother and I would spend hours outside, creating our own adventures on tree-lined Hollow Street near the comforting cul-de-sac by the highway. Our parents, although unaware of our whereabouts most times, trusted that we would return home by dinnertime. Life was not always smooth sailing, though. Our childhood home was filled with violence and unpredictability, making mealtimes a source of fear and anxiety. In my family, cooking skills have been passed down through the generations. My mother learned from her own mother, who, in turn, learned from her own mother. Over time, our household developed traditional staple dishes that brought comfort and warmth. Among my mother’s specialties were her comforting white bean and ham soup, deliciously creamy mushroom casserole, breakfast for dinner delights, and her amazing split pea soup. However, while my mother grew up in a household where dinner gathered the family around the table, my childhood experiences were marked by the violent and unpredictable nature of our home. We never knew when my father would return or in what kind of mood he would be. As a result, food preparation became something to be wary of, a necessary measure to prepare for emergencies. I always kept a bag packed, ready to leave quickly when needed. The number of times we rushed out of the house, heading to Kmart to purchase new pajamas and toiletries, and spend nights in hotel rooms or cars are countless. Yet, we were taught not to speak about it, but to survive it. As I entered into adulthood, my misguided approach to nutrition led me down a path of struggle with an eating disorder. I blamed food for any negative emotions I experienced, not grasping the true workings of my body. It took my healing journey and educational pursuits in nutrition to transform this perspective. I began to see food as a source of healing and nourishment, rather than punishment. As a certified nutrition coach, I now prioritize food security and understand the incredible power in nurturing oneself with wholesome, nutritious meals. My own experiences have shown me firsthand how food can heal not just the body, but the mind and soul as well. One of my most cherished activities is grocery shopping with my daughter. As we fill our cart with a colorful assortment of ingredients, I am filled with joy. This significance stems from my upbringing, where food shortages were common and processed ingredients abounded. I want you, my reader, to truly understand the power you hold right now. By understanding your body’s unique blueprint for health and happiness and nourishing yourself with wholesome, nutritious food, you can align with your purpose and pursue your dreams with boundless energy and vitality.
Providing yourself with nutrient-rich foods aligns you with your higher power and helps ignite your purpose, granting you the energy to heroically receive your dreams. Together, let’s embark on a transformative journey and explore the dynamic power of food and self-care. Every
individual deserves to feel their best, and food is a fundamental component of achieving that.
In conclusion, embracing the transformative power of food is a journey of nourishment and self-care. Our experiences, both past and present, shape our relationship with food and its significance in our lives. By understanding the impact of nutrition on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, we can unlock a world of healing and vitality. Let us explore the depths of our roots, immersing ourselves in the knowledge of our body’s unique blueprint for health and happiness. Nourishing ourselves with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods aligns us with our purpose, fuels our dreams, and brings us closer to the energy and vitality we need to thrive. As we embark on this journey together, let us celebrate the power we hold in our hands—the power to transform our lives and reclaim our well-being through the choices we make each day. Tapping into the transformative power of food is not only a gift we give ourselves but also an act of self-love and self-care. So, let us honor our bodies, listen to their needs, and nourish them with foods that truly serve our well-being. With each wholesome meal, we can embark on a path of healing, vitality, and the pursuit of our dreams. May food be a source of joy, nourishment, and empowerment on our journey towards a vibrant and fulfilling life—one where we can truly thrive in body, mind, and soul.
Thank you for reading,
Sincerely your Health | Nutrition Coach
Kimbo Rose
