Living Well, My Way: A Personal Wellness Journey

The habits that support me—and the reason behind them.

For most of my life, I’ve felt “off” in ways I couldn’t quite explain.

I was always flexible—sometimes too flexible. I’d feel dizzy when I stood up too fast. My joints popped, my bladder was unpredictable, and pain showed up in small, subtle ways. I’ve had dark under-eye circles since I was a little girl and have always held a pencil in an unusual grip—quirks I never thought twice about. But now I know: these are classic, telltale signs of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

For years, it was easy to brush these symptoms off or chalk them up to being “just how I am.” But over time, those whispers turned into something louder. My neck ached constantly—so much so that some nights I had to physically lift my head off the pillow just to get out of bed. My shoulders began slipping out of joint during simple, everyday movements. My ankles were always bruised from sprains I didn’t even realize were happening. And chronic fatigue crept in like a fog I couldn’t shake, accompanied by the quiet frustration of living in a body that felt like it was failing me at every turn.

I’m 41, and this year I finally got the answer I didn’t even realize I’d been seeking: a diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)—a connective tissue disorder that affects collagen, joint stability, and often goes undiagnosed for years, especially in women.

There’s no cure. No magic pill. Just a deeper understanding of my body—and a clear directive to treat it with care, consistency, and compassion.

That’s when I really began to rethink how I live—not just how I decorate my home. Wellness wasn’t just a side note anymore. It became the foundation.

So here’s what I’ve changed. These are the habits and mindset shifts that have helped me feel stronger, more grounded, and more me.

01. Movement with Intention

I never used to work out consistently—aside from the occasional barre or yoga class, it just wasn’t a priority. But after my diagnosis, I realized I needed to build a body that could support me long term. Now, I move with intention, working out 5–6 days a week for 45–60 minutes. I focus on strength and stability with a mix of Tabata, station-based strength and cardio, Power Barre, core classes, and Peloton rides. Yoga is off the table, as overstretching is one of the worst things I can do for my already too-flexible joints. This new routine helps me feel strong, steady, and more connected to myself than ever before.

02. Simplicity Over Fads

There’s always a new “must-have” wellness product or supplement. But I’ve stopped chasing those. I stick to the basics: hydration, whole foods, cooking at home, and spending time outside to soak up real vitamin D.

When I eat well, I feel better. When I slow down to cook, it’s more than a meal—it becomes a ritual. One that nourishes both body and home.

03. Alcohol, On My Terms

I’ve chosen to limit drinking to vacations or very special occasions—not out of willpower or trends, but because alcohol disrupts my sleep, amplifies pain, and leaves me depleted. Now, I replace it with coconut water with ice and lime, herbal tea, or cacao with adaptogens. Cutting back has given me clarity, consistency, and an energy that lasts long after a good day.

04. Protecting My Peace

One of the most empowering things I’ve done? I only spend time with people who bring out the best in me.

That doesn’t mean perfection—but it does mean mutual energy, support, and kindness. My boundaries have become quieter, stronger, and more loving. My calendar, my home, and my relationships all feel more aligned now—with room to breathe.

05. Rooted Rituals

Instead of chasing the next wellness trend, I’ve grounded myself in real-life rituals:
Meditation. Journaling. Sound baths. Long walks. Slower evenings.

These are the things that help me feel present in my life and home. The slower I go, the more clarity I find.

This Is What Living Well Looks Like for Me

I share this not because I have all the answers—but because I know how isolating it can be to navigate something silently.

Living well doesn’t have to mean doing more. It just means choosing what truly supports you.

If you’re in a season of shifting, redefining, or simply trying to feel more like yourself again—I hope this reminds you:
You’re allowed to change. You’re allowed to choose ease.
You’re allowed to design a life that holds you.