Stress, hormones, and daily habits all play a role in whether you wake up feeling refreshed—or like the creature from the Black Lagoon. I’ve been on my own sleep journey, from crashing anywhere as a kid (yes, even on ski lifts) to learning how to navigate the push-and-pull of stress, cortisol, and hormonal balance. If you’ve ever found yourself waking up at 3 a.m., dealing with a second wind at night, or feeling groggy no matter how much sleep you get—you’re not alone. In this post, I dive into why sleep changes, how stress and hormones throw off your rhythms, and what you can actually do about it—including herbs, lifestyle shifts, and foods that support deep, restorative rest.

Explore how trauma reshapes the brain, silencing rational thought and disrupting nervous system communication. Learn how early conditioning can be unlearned and upgraded through boundaries, key nutrients, and self-compassion. Discover actionable tips to calm the nervous system, nourish the brain, and reclaim your sovereignty with kindness and resilience. Healing begins with small, intentional steps—one compassionate choice at a time.