SWIHA Blog

Amanda Herring always knew she was meant to help people — it wasn’t until she blended her medical expertise with holistic healing that she truly discovered her purpose. As an ER nurse, she spent over a decade on the front lines of emergency medicine, tending to crises and comforting those in their most vulnerable moments. Yet amidst the chaos and heartbreak of the ER, Amanda began to notice a recurring pattern — many of the emergencies she treated could have been prevented with better self-care, healthier habits, and more education on wellness.

That realization sparked a fire in her: there had to be a better way.

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St. Patrick’s Day reminds us that spring is just around the corner, inviting us to tap into the energy of renewal and transformation. This season of rebirth encourages us to shed what no longer serves us, just as nature awakens from its winter slumber. It's a time for both the earth and our bodies to rejuvenate, align with new intentions, and embrace growth. Spring offers a fresh start, an opportunity to focus on vitality, and to nourish ourselves with vibrant, nutrient-dense foods that fuel both body and mind.

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Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love—it’s the perfect time to embrace self-love and nourish your body, mind, and soul. At SWIHA, our Nutrition Program inspires a holistic approach to health, teaching students how food can nurture both physical well-being and emotional balance. So today, we’re sharing a recipe to help you celebrate love in all its forms: Strawberry Rose Bliss Bites!

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What is Holistic Health & Wellness? As a new Wellness Coach, I feel that it is important to have educational reading for those who enjoy going a little deeper. Let’s explore the fundamental principles and give some insight into how individuals should be treated as a whole and not just their symptoms. And also the importance of holistic preventative care. I am proud to be a part of an approach to health that distinguishes itself from traditional healthcare.

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We all feel the same way when we are told to eat better by our physicians. “It's too expensive” and “I don’t have time for that” are two of the most common responses when I have asked people about their barriers to eating better. These two answers are some of the most discouraging to our journey and our self-esteem because when we fail we tend to take it out on ourselves, the cost at the store, or even the people who are succeeding at what we are trying to do. So here I am as a mom of two, a wife, a caregiver who works out of the house, and family members in my home with specific dietary restrictions to tell you, it's OK. You can do it.  In the last 10 years of trying to meal prep (sometimes unsuccessfully) and in the 5 years of consistent meal prepping (minus a day or week where I’m just not feeling into it) I’ve learned these 6 tips.

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Whether you are a long-time vegan or a newbie, being prepared in the kitchen can make eating vegan a breeze, rather than a hassle. A vegan eats only plant-derived foods, and they do not consume any animal products or bi-products, including honey, eggs, or milk. If you are interested in trying out a vegan diet, consider stocking your pantry with these things!

Nuts – Nuts are a great source of protein and healthy fat in a vegan diet. Keep them on hand to soak and make foods such as almond milk, cashew cheese, or creamy sauces or soups. They also make a great addition to any salad or a bowl of oatmeal.

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It is officially autumn and we hope you are starting to experience some cooler temperatures. As we transition from summer into fall it as always nice to slow down. This time of year often makes people begin to think about pumpkin patches, leaves changing, and, of course, apple cider!

We are sharing a simple recipe that will be perfect for chilly evenings, while studying, or by the fire. We are also including a complementary printable for you to cut out as a reminder to make this warm beverage plus a few extra to give to friends, family, and neighbors.

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