brooke-lark-nTZOILVZuOg-unsplash.jpg

thrive blog

tips, recipes and info to help you live healthier

Health, healthy eating Stephanie Metzger Health, healthy eating Stephanie Metzger

Fall Reset: Boost Your Immunity & Energy Naturally This Season

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, our bodies instinctively begin to shift into a new rhythm. Autumn is a time of transition—not just in nature but also within us. It’s the perfect time to reset, nourish, and strengthen your immunity and energy so you can move through the season with vitality and resilience.

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, our bodies instinctively begin to shift into a new rhythm. Autumn is a time of transition—not just in nature but also within us. It’s the perfect time to reset, nourish, and strengthen your immunity and energy so you can move through the season with vitality and resilience.

From a holistic nutrition perspective, fall is not just about avoiding colds or staying warm—it’s about supporting your body’s innate intelligence to thrive in the cooler months. Here’s how you can harness the power of food and lifestyle to feel your best this season.

Superfoods for Immunity and Energy

These seasonal powerhouses help nourish the body at a cellular level and support immune resilience, gut health, and sustained energy:

1.  Medicinal Mushrooms

  • Reishi, shiitake, maitake, and chaga are immune-modulating and adaptogenic.

  • Add powdered mushroom blends to your morning tea, coffee, or smoothies.

  • Benefits: Balance the immune system, support adrenal health, and fight fatigue.

2. Pumpkin & Winter Squash

  • Rich in beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), which strengthens mucosal barriers and immunity.

  • Also a great source of complex carbohydrates for lasting energy.

  • Roast, mash, or add to soups and stews.

3. Dark Leafy Greens

  • Kale, Swiss chard, and collard greens are loaded with vitamins C, K, and magnesium.

  • They support detoxification and energy production.

  • Lightly steam or sauté with garlic and olive oil for maximum absorption.

4. Fermented Foods

  • Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and miso promote gut health—home to 70% of your immune system.

  • Start small if you’re new: 1 tbsp with meals goes a long way.

5. Citrus Fruits & Berries

  • High in vitamin C and antioxidants.

  • Swap sugary snacks for orange slices, pomegranate seeds, or warmed berries with cinnamon.

6. Bone Broth

  • Rich in amino acids, collagen, and minerals.

  • Supports gut lining, joint health, and immunity.

  • Sip it as a warming elixir or use as a soup base.

7. Ginger and Turmeric

  • Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting.

  • Add to teas, golden milk, or curries.


Lifestyle Guidelines for a Holistic Fall Reset

Fall invites us to slow down, get grounded, and focus inward. These lifestyle tips work synergistically with nutrition to help you feel balanced, resilient, and energized:

1. Prioritize Restorative Sleep

  • Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night. The immune system does its deepest repair work during sleep.

  • Try magnesium-rich foods or an Epsom salt bath before bed.

2. Get Natural Light Daily

  • Morning light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin.

  • Take a brisk walk or sip your tea outside for 10–20 minutes daily.

3. Support Your Nervous System

  • Chronic stress lowers immunity and drains energy.

  • Incorporate breathwork, meditation, or gentle yoga to signal your body to relax and repair.

4. Stay Active—But Grounded

  • Walking, stretching, and strength training support circulation and lymphatic flow.

  • Avoid overtraining, which can deplete your immune reserves.

5. Breathe Fresh, Moist Air

  • Indoor heating can dry out nasal passages, making you more susceptible to viruses.

  • Use a humidifier or diffuse essential oils like eucalyptus or tea tree to cleanse and moisten the air.

6. Reduce Sugar and Refined Carbs

  • These weaken immune response and cause energy crashes.

  • Opt for naturally sweet foods like roasted root vegetables or fruit with cinnamon.

7. Hydration with a Twist

  • Switch cold water for warm herbal teas like echinacea, elderberry, or ginger-lemon.

  • These keep you hydrated and also support immune function.

In Closing…

Fall isn’t just about dodging the seasonal sniffles—it’s about rooting yourself, nourishing deeply, and building a foundation of wellness for the colder months ahead. By aligning your nutrition and lifestyle with the rhythms of the season, you can feel not just well, but vibrantly alive.

If you are looking for the daily guidance and support to help you reach your wellness goals this fall, book your free 20 minute nutrition consult today!

Book Your Free 20 Minute Nutrition Consult
Read More

The Power of Corporate Wellness: A Holistic Nutritionist's Perspective

Corporate wellness programs are comprehensive initiatives designed to support and improve the health and well-being of employees. These programs can include fitness activities, nutritional guidance, mental health support, stress management, and more. The goal is to create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.

Understanding Corporate Wellness

Corporate wellness programs are comprehensive initiatives designed to support and improve the health and well-being of employees. These programs can include fitness activities, nutritional guidance, mental health support, stress management, and more. The goal is to create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.

The Importance of Corporate Wellness

1. Enhanced Physical Health - When employees have access to fitness programs and nutritional guidance, they are more likely to adopt healthier lifestyles. Regular physical activity and balanced nutrition can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. By promoting physical health, companies can reduce days of work missed and increase productivity.

2. Mental Health and Stress Management - Work-related stress is a significant concern in the modern workplace. Corporate wellness programs that include mental health support—such as mindfulness training, counseling services, and stress management workshops—can help employees manage stress more effectively. A mentally healthy workforce is more engaged, focused, and creative.

3. Improved Work-Life Balance - A well-structured corporate wellness program encourages employees to find a balance between their work responsibilities and personal lives. Initiatives like flexible working hours, remote work options, and family health days can help employees feel valued and supported, leading to higher job satisfaction and loyalty.

Benefits of Corporate Wellness for Employees

1. Increased Productivity - Healthy employees are more productive. When individuals feel good physically and mentally, they are more likely to perform at their best. Corporate wellness programs can lead to increased energy levels, better focus, and improved overall performance.

2. Higher Job Satisfaction - Employees who feel their well-being is prioritized are more satisfied with their jobs. Corporate wellness programs show that a company cares about its employees’ health, which can boost morale and foster a positive workplace culture.

 3. Lower Healthcare Costs - Preventive health measures promoted through wellness programs can reduce the need for medical interventions. Employees who maintain a healthy lifestyle are less likely to require extensive healthcare services, resulting in lower healthcare costs for both the employees and the company.

4. Stronger Community and Team Building - Wellness programs often include group activities such as team sports, fitness challenges, or wellness workshops. These activities can strengthen relationships among employees, build teamwork, and create a sense of community within the workplace.

Implementing an Effective Corporate Wellness Program

To maximize the benefits of corporate wellness, it’s essential to design a program that meets the specific needs of the workforce. Here are some tips:


1. Assess Employee Needs: Conduct surveys or focus groups to understand the health needs and preferences of employees.
2. Set Clear Goals: Establish measurable objectives for the wellness program, such as reducing days of work missed or improving employee satisfaction.
3. Provide Diverse Options: Offer a variety of wellness activities to cater to different interests and fitness levels.
4. Encourage Participation: Foster a culture of wellness by encouraging all employees to participate and by leading by example.
5. Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the wellness program and make necessary adjustments to ensure continuous improvement.

Conclusion

Corporate wellness is not just a benefit—it’s a crucial component of a thriving workplace. By investing in the health and well-being of employees, companies can foster a more productive, satisfied, and loyal workforce. As a holistic nutritionist, I advocate for the integration of wellness programs in every organization, knowing that the physical, mental, and emotional health of employees is the cornerstone of sustainable success. Embrace corporate wellness, and watch your workplace transform into a vibrant, dynamic, and healthy community.

Contact Steph, registered nutritionist today to learn more about workplace nutrition consults for your employee’s.

Contact Steph
Read More