Crochet entered my life during a season when my mind wouldn’t slow down.

I wasn’t looking to sell.
I wasn’t thinking about income.
I just needed something gentle for my hands.

Why Crochet Is Calming for Moms

Crochet creates rhythm.
It invites focus.
It gives your thoughts somewhere safe to land.

Even 10–15 minutes can help regulate emotions after a long day of caregiving.

My Simple Crochet Routine

When I crochet, I prepare for calm:

• Comfortable seating

• Soft lighting

• Water nearby

• Gentle background music or silence

And yes—on longer sessions, I also include my plant-based wellness drink (Intra) to help support my energy and focus.

Not to push harder—but to stay present.

What Helps Me Stay Focused While Creating

Crochet is more than a hobby to me now.
It’s part of how I reset emotionally and creatively.

Supporting my body allows me to enjoy the process—not rush through it.

👉 This is the wellness drink I personally include in my routine

Save this for later!

Burnout doesn’t always look like breaking down.

Sometimes it looks like waking up tired every day, pushing through tasks, and telling yourself this is just part of being a mom.

For a long time, that was me.

I was doing meaningful work—writing, creating, caring for my family—but my body felt constantly drained. Not sick. Just… depleted. And no amount of coffee fixed it.

Why Moms Feel Tired All the Time

Motherhood carries a mental load that doesn’t clock out. We manage schedules, emotions, meals, finances, and expectations—often while trying to build something of our own.

Add skipped meals, dehydration, and stress, and it’s no wonder so many moms feel exhausted even when they “rest.”

My Gentle Wellness Rhythm (No Hustle Required)

I stopped chasing productivity hacks and focused on consistency instead.

Here’s what my day looks like now:

• Morning prayer and quiet time

• Water before coffee

• Light movement or stretching

• Simple, plant-based nutrition support

One thing I personally include in my routine is a botanical drink called Intra. I don’t treat it as a miracle solution—just gentle nutritional support on days my body needs extra help.

Why I Personally Chose Botanical Support

I wanted something:

• Easy to prepare

• Gentle on my stomach

• Supportive during long work-from-home days

Intra fits naturally into my lifestyle, especially when I’m writing, crocheting, or working on nanaykikay.com.

Wellness That Supports Creativity

When my body feels supported, I create better.
I’m more patient.
I finish projects.
I don’t feel resentful toward my work or my home.

That matters more to me than “doing more.”

Disclosure:
This post contains affiliate links. I only share products I personally use and love. This is not medical advice.

👉 Learn more about the wellness product I personally use here

This year, I’m not rushing.

I’m not chasing unrealistic goals or trying to “bounce back” to who I used to be.

Instead, I’m preparing my heart, home, and habits for a restored and fruitful year—one that honors God, nurtures my children, and cares for the woman I’m becoming.

1. Choosing Restoration Over Perfection

For so long, I thought being a good mom meant doing everything right—having the cleanest home, the most productive schedule, and the strongest mindset. But restoration isn’t about perfection. It’s about healing what’s been stretched, tired, or neglected.

This year, I’m allowing myself to rest without guilt.
To pause.
To breathe.

“He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” — Psalm 23:3

God doesn’t ask me to strive endlessly—He invites me to be restored.

2. Simplifying My Daily Rhythms

Instead of overwhelming routines, I’m focusing on gentle, sustainable rhythms:

• Morning prayer before touching my phone

• Nourishing my body with simple wellness habits

• Creating pockets of quiet, even in a noisy home

As a mom, especially in a full household, peace doesn’t come from control—it comes from intentional simplicity.

3. Pouring Into My Spiritual Life First

I’ve learned that when my spiritual cup is empty, everything else feels heavy. This year, I’m prioritizing:

• Daily Scripture (even if it’s just one verse)

• Honest prayers instead of polished ones

• Trusting God with my motherhood journey

Fruitfulness doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from staying connected to the Vine.

“Those who remain in Me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.” — John 15:5

4. Caring for My Body as an Act of Stewardship

I’m no longer treating self-care as a reward. It’s a responsibility.

This year, I’m choosing:

• Gentle movement that honors my season

• Nutrition that supports my energy as a mom

• Listening to my body instead of ignoring it

A restored mom is better equipped to love, serve, and show up fully.

5. Creating With Purpose, Not Pressure

Whether it’s blogging, crafting, or serving others online, I’m stepping into creation with clarity and calling, not comparison.

I’m asking:

• Does this glorify God?

• Does this align with my values as a mom?

• Does this bring peace or pressure?

Fruitfulness flows naturally when we create from alignment, not exhaustion.

6. Extending Grace—to Myself and Others

Motherhood humbles you. This year, I’m releasing:

• Harsh self-talk

• Unrealistic expectations

• Comparison with other moms

Grace isn’t weakness—it’s strength wrapped in compassion.

A Gentle Intention for the Year

My prayer isn’t for a perfect year.
It’s for a present one.

A year where I’m restored in spirit, fruitful in love, and anchored in faith—one day, one prayer, one small obedient step at a time.

If you’re a mom entering a new season too, may this be your reminder:

You don’t have to do more to be fruitful.
You simply need to remain rooted.

🌿💛

A Gentle Guide for Moms, Women, and Anyone Feeling Overwhelmed

Life doesn’t warn us before it gets heavy.

One moment you’re okay, the next you’re holding back tears while trying to stay strong—for your kids, your family, your responsibilities. When life gets tough, calming yourself isn’t about pretending everything’s fine. It’s about finding small anchors that help you breathe again.

If you’re reading this while feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained—this list is for you.

1. Pause and Take a Deep Breath

It sounds simple, but intentional breathing tells your nervous system that you’re safe.

2. Step Away From the Noise

Silence is healing.

Even five minutes away from your phone, TV, or social media can help your thoughts settle. Constant noise fuels anxiety more than we realize.

3. Name What You’re Feeling

Instead of saying “I’m fine,” try being honest—with yourself at least.

Naming emotions reduces their power.

4. Pray or Talk to God Honestly

You don’t need perfect words.

Faith doesn’t remove hardship—but it provides comfort in it.

5. Cry Without Apologizing

Crying is not weakness. It’s release.

Letting emotions out prevents them from turning into resentment, anxiety, or burnout.

6. Ground Yourself in the Present

When your mind spirals into what ifs, gently pull yourself back.

Name:

3 things you can see
2 things you can hear
1 thing you can touch

This grounding technique helps calm racing thoughts.

7. Move Your Body Gently

You don’t need intense workouts.

A short walk, stretching, or slow dancing in your room helps release tension stored in the body.

8. Write It Out

Journaling clears mental clutter.

Just honesty on paper.

9. Remind Yourself: This Is Temporary

Even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, seasons change.

You’ve survived hard things before—and this moment will pass too.

10. Do One Small Comforting Thing

When life feels overwhelming, don’t aim to fix everything.

Just do one thing:

Make tea
Take a warm shower
Light a candle
Listen to calming music

Small comforts create emotional safety.

11. Stop Comparing Your Life to Others

Social media often shows highlights, not real struggles.

Comparison steals peace and replaces it with pressure.

Your journey doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.

12. Set Boundaries—Even Temporary Ones

You are allowed to say:

“Not today”
“I need rest”
“I’ll respond later”

Protecting your energy is not selfish—it’s necessary.

13. Focus on What You Can Control

When life feels chaotic, shift your attention to what’s within reach.

You may not control outcomes, but you can control:

Your response
Your pace
Your priorities

That alone brings calm.

14. Speak Kindly to Yourself

Notice your inner dialogue.

Self-compassion is calming.

15. Reach Out to Someone Safe

You don’t have to explain everything.

16. Let Go of What You Can’t Carry Today

You don’t have to solve your entire life in one day.

Let today be lighter.

A Gentle Reminder 💛

If life feels heavy right now, let this be your reminder:

ALSO READ: Growing beyond an unfulfilling marriage

When life gets tough, don’t pressure yourself to “stay strong” all the time.

Sometimes strength looks like:

Pausing
Breathing
Letting go
Asking for help

Even one is enough to begin again.

Part 1 of Our Family Bonding & Foodie Adventures in Cebu

Hey there, fellow moms and fellow weekend warriors! ❤️

Welcome to the start of our Family Bonding & Foodie Adventures in Cebu blog series! We're a family of five who absolutely loves finding new places to hang out, enjoy good food, and create fun memories together. Whether it’s a spontaneous food trip, a relaxing day out, or a simple stroll, we’re all about making every weekend count.

This past weekend, we spent our family day at Parkmall Cebu—and it did not disappoint!  From chill open-air spaces to a wide range of food spots, Parkmall gave us the perfect setting for quality bonding time and some serious food discoveries.

What We Loved About Parkmall

Parkmall has this laid-back, family-friendly vibe that made our whole day feel relaxed and unhurried.

• The kids had space to move around and enjoy without the usual mall crowd stress.

• Us parents? We got to sneak in some quiet coffee time while the kids were entertained (big win!).

Our Favorite Food Finds at Parkmall

Here’s where the magic happened—the food trip! We discovered so many new food spots worth coming back to:

Yang Hero – Craving some crispy, flavorful Chinese-style chicken? Yang Hero served up juicy wings and satisfying rice meals that our whole fam enjoyed. 

Banh Mi Kitchen – A quick bite that packs a punch! Their Vietnamese sandwiches were crunchy, fresh, and full of flavor. Great for on-the-go munching or a light lunch option.

Hukad – For that homey Filipino feast, Hukad always delivers. We shared their crispy pata, sinigang, and unlimited rice (because, yes, we’re that kind of family 😂). Their halo-halo also hit the spot!

Pickup Coffee – Before heading home, we grabbed our caffeine fix from Pickup Coffee. Affordable, smooth, and strong—just what this mom needed after chasing toddlers all afternoon!

(We’ll be doing mini reviews of each place in future blog posts, so watch out for that too! )

Why This Day Meant So Much

More than just eating good food, what really made this day special was the time we spent together. No screens, no pressure—just the five of us enjoying each other’s company, one bite and belly laugh at a time.

Up Next on the Blog:
We’ll be breaking down each of these food spots—what we ordered, what we loved, and why you should try them too! Plus, we’re checking out more family-friendly spots in Cebu soon. 

Got any recommendations for our next family food trip? Leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you! 

There’s nothing quite like escaping the busy rhythm of everyday life and heading to the sea with the people you love most. Our recent family adventure in Basdaku, Moalboal was the perfect mix of fun, rest, and unforgettable moments.

The Christmas and New Year season is full of food, gatherings, and celebrations. For many moms and women, it also comes with guilt, fear of weight gain, and the pressure to "start again" in January.

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to starve, skip celebrations, or punish your body to lose fat and build muscle—even during the holidays.

This guide will help you understand calorie deficit the right way, while using simple wellness tools like Tokyo Vanilla Coffee, Apple Cider Gummies, Intra Juice, and Nutria Plus to support your goals.

What Is a Calorie Deficit (In Simple Terms)?

A calorie deficit means you consume slightly fewer calories than your body uses, forcing it to burn stored fat for energy.

✔️ Fat loss happens in a calorie deficit
✔️ Muscle is built with protein, resistance training, and recovery
❌ Extreme restriction leads to muscle loss, hormone imbalance, and burnout

The goal is not to eat less—but to eat smarter.

Holiday Reality Check (And Why This Still Works)

During Christmas and New Year:

• You eat more carbs and sugar

• Schedules are irregular

• Workouts may be shorter

That’s okay.

A holiday calorie deficit looks like:

• 80/20 balance (80% nourishing foods, 20% enjoyment)

• Daily movement (even walking counts)

• Supporting digestion, energy, and immunity

Fat Loss + Muscle Building Holiday Strategy

1. Start Your Day With Smart Fuel

Tokyo Vanilla Coffee ☕

• Helps control appetite

• Prevents random snacking

• Gives gentle energy without heavy sugar

💡 Tip: Pair with protein (eggs, yogurt, or nuts) to stay fuller longer.

ORDER HERE

2. Control Cravings & Digestion

Apple Cider Gummies 🍎

• Supports blood sugar balance

• Helps curb sweet cravings

• Aids digestion after heavy meals

Perfect after holiday feasts when bloating and cravings hit.

ORDER HERE

3. Detox & Cellular Support

Intra Juice 🥬

• Supports detoxification

• Boosts antioxidants

• Helps digestion and immune defense

This is ideal during the holidays when food choices aren’t perfect.

💡 Think of it as nutritional insurance.

More information about the benefits of Intra Juice here: 

READ MORE: https://www.lifestylesintra.com/2025/12/understanding-8-body-systems-how-intra.html

ORDER HERE

4. Cellular Repair & Recovery

Nutria Plus 💊

• Supports healthy cells

• Helps reduce inflammation

• Aids recovery from stress and workouts

This is especially helpful for moms balancing festivities, family, and fitness.

ORDER HERE

Sample Holiday Calorie Deficit Routine

Morning

• Tokyo Vanilla Coffee

• Light protein breakfast

Midday

• Balanced meal (protein + veggies + carbs)

• Intra Juice

Afternoon

• Apple Cider Gummies

• Light snack if needed

Evening

• Enjoy holiday dinner (portion-aware, not restrictive)

• Nutria Plus before bed

Training Guide: Lose Fat, Keep Muscle

You don’t need long workouts.

3–4x Weekly Simple Routine

• Squats

• Push-ups or wall push-ups

• Glute bridges

• Planks

• Light dumbbell or resistance band exercises

⏱ 20–30 minutes is enough.

Add daily walking to increase calorie burn without stress.

Common Holiday Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Skipping meals to "save calories"
❌ Cutting carbs completely
❌ Overtraining to compensate for food
❌ Feeling guilty for enjoying celebrations

Remember: consistency beats perfection.

Faith & Wellness Reminder

Your body is not a problem to fix—it’s a gift to steward.

"Therefore honor God with your bodies." – 1 Corinthians 6:20

Health is about care, not punishment.

Final Thoughts

A calorie deficit during Christmas and New Year is possible when you:

• Eat intentionally

• Support digestion and energy

• Move consistently

• Choose grace over guilt

With tools like Tokyo Vanilla Coffee, Apple Cider Gummies, Intra Juice, and Nutria Plus, you can enjoy the season and move toward your fitness goals.

✨ Progress doesn’t pause for the holidays—it adapts.