The Mountain Feels Big… But You Only Need to Take the Next Step
When you’re living with chronic illness, it can feel like everything is about removing — no gluten, no dairy, no sugar, no fun. And while sometimes pulling things out is necessary, I’ve found that focusing only on what you “can’t” have leaves you feeling deprived, discouraged, and honestly, a little resentful.
What if instead, we shifted the focus?
What if healing could start by adding in nourishing, supportive practices — little things that help your body feel safe, calm, and cared for?
This is the heart of my R.E.S.T.O.R.E. Method. It’s not about doing everything perfectly or flipping your life upside down overnight. It’s about creating steady rhythms of self-care that build over time — one small addition, one small win, one step forward.
I was reminded of this recently when talking with a friend who felt paralyzed by her “all or nothing” mindset. She told me, “If I can’t do it all, I don’t do anything.” I get it — I’ve been there. When you’re staring at the whole mountain, it feels impossible. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to climb the mountain in one leap. You just need to take one step. And then another. And then another.
Over time, those steps add up. The mountain that once felt insurmountable? Suddenly the top is in sight.
So instead of obsessing over what to cut out, here are some simple add-ins that can help your body heal and rebuild confidence that yes, you can do this — even when change feels hard:
Add dark leafy greens or deeply colored berries to each meal. Packed with antioxidants, these foods support your body’s defenses and bring vibrant energy to your plate.
Add protein to meals and snacks. Not only does it keep you full, but it also provides the building blocks for tissue repair and immune support.
Start your day with warm lemon water. A simple ritual that helps your liver, hydrates you, and signals to your body that you’re prioritizing health.
Sip a daily detox tea. A gentle way to support your detox pathways (and honestly, it feels cozy and grounding).
Soak in an Epsom salt bath 2–3 times a week. Magnesium eases muscle pain, calms the nervous system, and gives you space to relax.
Try a castor oil pack over your liver. Old school, but powerful for supporting detox and digestion.
Practice deep breathing. Just a few minutes a day can activate your parasympathetic nervous system and help your body shift out of fight-or-flight mode.
Stretch or practice restorative yoga daily. Gentle movement not only relieves stress but also supports lymphatic flow, which is critical for detox and healing.
Prioritize 8+ hours of quality sleep. Sleep is your body’s reset button, where immune repair and deep healing happen.
Get grounded outside. Just 10–15 minutes barefoot on the earth can reduce inflammation and reconnect you with nature.
The beauty of this approach is that you don’t need to do everything at once. Pick one habit that feels doable today. As it becomes part of your rhythm, layer in another. Slowly, those small additions create momentum — and momentum creates healing.
Be gentle with yourself. Healing isn’t a straight line and it’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about leaning into small practices that remind your body that it’s supported and your spirit that you’re not alone. One breath, one choice, one step forward — that’s enough.