Issue #5: Tackling Inflammation – A Personalized Approach to Vitality… And a Holiday GIFT for you! ??

What if the root of chronic discomfort and low energy wasn’t just in your joints or stress but in the foods you eat every day? This week, we’re diving into the power of a personalized anti-inflammatory diet—a science-backed approach to reducing inflammation and promoting vitality. By aligning your nutrition with your body’s unique DNA, you can take small, intentional steps toward greater energy, less discomfort, and a healthier, more vibrant life.

For me, the connection between inflammation and health is deeply personal. It’s been a long journey, filled with setbacks, surgeries, and some major wake-up calls. Let me share my story.

My Story: Overcoming Inflammation and Reclaiming Health

Inflammation isn’t just a buzzword for me—it’s something I’ve battled for most of my life. Years of poor health, high stress, and unresolved physical challenges all came to a head in ways I couldn’t ignore.

In my 30s, I carried extra weight and lived under constant stress. A difficult relationship and the pressures of a demanding career only added to the problem, pushing my body into an inflammatory spiral. I suspect cortisol, the stress hormone, played a big role—it felt like my body was always in fight-or-flight mode.

The effects of this chronic inflammation showed up everywhere. I endured seven knee surgeries, including a cartilage transplant on one knee and a partial knee replacement on the other. My joints were screaming for relief, but no matter what I tried, nothing seemed to stick. I also faced the painful reality of endometriosis, which meant years of infertility procedures and emotional and physical strain.

Then came the cancer scare. It was the jolt I needed to reevaluate my life. I realized that the path I was on—poor nutrition, high stress, and little regard for my own well-being—wasn’t sustainable. It was time to make a change, not just for my joints, but for my entire future.

That’s when I did something unexpected: I signed up for my first triathlon. I had no knowledge of the sport, no experience swimming laps, biking long distances, or recent running beyond the occasional jog. It felt audacious and terrifying—but it also felt like hope.

At first, it was overwhelming. Learning how to train, facing my fears of the water, and dealing with the voice in my head telling me I wasn’t cut out for this was hard. But with every small step forward, I began to believe in the possibility of change. The triathlon became more than just a race—it became a way to reclaim my body and my life.

By diving into more movement, intuitive eating, DNA-based insights, and focusing on a personalized anti-inflammatory diet, I started to turn things around. I discovered that small, consistent changes—like incorporating more movement, anti-inflammatory foods, balancing macronutrients, and cutting back on stress triggers—could make a profound difference. Over time, my energy returned, my discomfort eased, and I began to feel like myself again.

This journey taught me that you don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Small, intentional steps can lead to big transformations. What started as a way to cope with stress and inflammation turned into a passion that continues to empower me every day.

Whether it’s signing up for a challenge or making one small change to your nutrition, the key is starting where you are—and believing in what’s possible.

Why Personalization Matters

Here’s the thing about inflammation: it looks different for everyone. That’s why understanding your unique body is essential. With DNA-based nutrition, you can uncover:

• Trigger Foods: Learn which foods may be contributing to inflammation in your body.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Address gaps in your diet that could be slowing your recovery or draining your energy.
• Stress Response: Understand how your body handles stress and find ways to mitigate its impact through diet.

A personalized food plan isn’t about restriction—it’s about fueling your body with what it truly needs to thrive.

A Holiday Gift for YOU: A Sprint Triathlon Training Plan!

As a gift for the holidays, I’m offering a free sprint triathlon training plan to anyone who’s ready to try the challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started, this plan is designed to help you build confidence, resilience, and strength—all while having fun!

?? Shoot me an email [email protected], to claim your free plan and start your journey today.

Share Your Story!

What’s your experience with inflammation, nutrition, or finding a personalized approach to wellness?

?? Hit reply and share your story—I’d love to feature one reader’s insight in an upcoming issue (with permission, of course!).

Question of the Week: What’s one small change you’ve made to your diet or lifestyle that’s made a big impact on how you feel?

Simply comment your questions or send an email to [email protected]. I’ll answer a few responses in next week’s issue!

Weekly Training Stats

• Time Spent Training: 479 minutes of intensity training
• Miles/KM Covered: Bike 39.5/63.6, Run 9.6/15.4, Swim 0/0
• Resting Heart Rate: 44 bpm

Lesson Learned: Training during the holidays isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency.

Empowered Win of the Week

This week, I’m celebrating adhering to my training plan at 85% despite the chaos of the holidays. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up consistently and giving your best, even when life gets busy.

What’s your empowered win this week?

Image of the Week (Cover):

On a trail run this week, I paused at the top of a plateau near my home, taking in the vast expanse surrounding me. The cool, crisp morning air and the overcast, moody sky created a moment of serene beauty. In the stillness, I found a few minutes of calm and quiet—a rare and welcome pause during the busy holiday season. This moment was a reminder to stop, breathe, and appreciate the simple wonders around us.

Quote of the Week

"Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try." – John F. Kennedy

Small changes add up to big results. Start today.

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Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

As the holiday season wraps us in its warmth, I want to take a moment to wish you a heartfelt Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyous Kwanzaa, or whatever beautiful traditions you may celebrate. This is a time of year for reflection, gratitude, and connection—a time to honor the love we give and receive, the progress we’ve made, and the journeys we’re on.

I am deeply grateful for you, for your commitment to growth, and for sharing this space with me. Whether you’re surrounded by family, enjoying quiet moments of peace, or simply soaking in the joy of the season, I hope you feel empowered and supported.

From my family to yours, I wish you a season filled with light, hope, and endless possibility. Together, we’re creating something extraordinary—one step, one change, and one day at a time.

With heartfelt kindness and gratitude~ Holli

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