I grew up eating oatmeal and I still have it occasionally. I enjoy it for all-day fuel thanks to the complex carbs found in oats. Because I stick to mostly gluten-free foods, I buy the gluten-free option!
If you're looking for a thicker consistency, you should try overnight oats! All you do is add oats to a jar, add water and let them soak overnight!
I do this when I know I'll have a hectic morning and need a grab and go breakfast.
whether or not
I choose to soak my oats overnight or not, I always add a few certain topics to add protein, fat, and extra flavor.
I personally prefer having protein with my breakfast so I like adding either Bone Broth Protein or plant protein which are both linked below.
Next, I choose a nut butter of choice. Preferably, I add almond or walnut butter for healthy fats.
Lastly, I add organic berries. I like cutting up organic strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and bananas! Bananas are always a great addition for prebiotic fiber (hello, gut support!)
What's your go to breakfast? If you give these a try, tag me on Instagram @nellamoon.
xo,
arielle
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cake batter from.... chickpeas.
You read that right.
I tested this recipe and I can't believe how much this resembles real cake batter that we all know and love. It's vegan and it's gluten-free + insanely delicious.
what you'll need
2 cans of organic chickpeas
1/2 cup organic maple syrup or honey
1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats
1/2 cup of almond butter or peanut butter
1+1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
Himalayan sea salt to your liking
What to do
Blend in vita-mix then add dark chocolate pieces to your liking!
That's it!
So simple and so yummy!
If you give it a try, show me on Instagram @nellamoon
]]>I think we all can agree that mashed potatoes are one of the greatest ways to use a potato. Since I try to avoid white potatoes most of the time, I wanted a lower-carb alternative. I got creative and created mashed cauliflower and I was shocked by how easy it was. You're going to love these...
what you'll need
what to do...
Then, add-in...
Lastly, blend on high until you've hit the consistency you prefer.
It's so easy and they're so delicious! If you decide to give this a try, tag me on Instagram @nellamoon!
xo, arielle ]]>blueberry muffins have been an all-time favorite for me. Looking for a low sugar recipe can be tricky so I came up with my own!
Start with this pancake mix
I know how weird this sounds but let me explain! Not only can you make pancakes with this magical mix, but waffles, and any other bakes goods, too! Add the entire bag to a mixing bowl with 1 and 3/4 cups of water and mix well!
Next steps
The next steps are super simple. All you're going to do is add 1 Tbs. of monk fruit or organic stevia! Then, you'll add in 1 or 2 cups of fresh blueberries (however many you'd like!).
After all ingredients are combined, add spices like cinnamon and maybe a pinch of sea salt.
I next, fill a greased or lined muffin tin with the mix and let them bake on 350 for about 45 minutes!
This is such a simple recipe and they've become a staple in the Ricci household! Aff nut-butter or whatever toppings you love! You can even add in a scoop or plant protein powde if you want to take the protein level up!
you can find everything I used linked below!
enjoy!
Arielle
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There are certain tools, supplements, and habits that can make living a healthy lifestyle a lot easier. I've been asked what I do to stay healthy while running a business and balancing my personal life and to tell you the truth, it's hard! That's why I seek tools to help me out a bit and I'm excited to share!
sore muscles!
while working out is a key part of my wellness routine, soreness isn't fun. This machine is a total rockstar as it digs deep into the tissue. It doesn't feel good at first but you will notice a difference the next day!
blend, baby!
throw all the ingredients into the blender, pour it into a hydro flask, and walk out the door. This is what most breakfasts look like for me when I'm on the go. I add protein powder, cinnamon, chia seeds, almond milk, almond butter, and other superfoods which I've linked below! You can also find my favorite blender below, too. I've also linked a more affordable option.
infrared sauna
this isn't your typical sauna. Infrared saunas have made a tremendous impact on my health! Basically, you sit for about 40 minutes in a temperature hovering above 140 degrees and walk out looking like you just swap laps. It's a remarkable way to detox the body as it penetrates deep into the organs and supports detoxification. I've linked a few options below!
juice, anyone?
i love love love my juicer! And yes, I juice celery juice in the mornings! I've noticed more energy and very clear skin! My juice is linked below. The magic about getting a juicer is that you have so much power in your hands (and more money in your pocket)! Apple juice, ginger shots for immunity, celery juice and more! You name it, my juicer can juice it!
take your workout anywhere
quarantine has made it known that workouts go beyond gym walls. We can actually work out wherever we are. I carry resistance bands, a yoga mat, and an extra change of clothes in my car just in case I want to get a good sweat in! I've linked these necessities below.
any wellness staples you're loving? Let me know on Instagram @nellamoon
xo,
arielle
]]>Tuna salad... a staple in most households. Because most are filled with inflammatory oils and additives, I decided to create a cleaner version and name it Nella's tuna salad. This is a staple in our house. We love it on salads, crackers, and gluten-free toast.
here's what you'll need...
after you combine all of this in a large mixing bowl, mix until it reaches the consistency you want!
you can either grab the tuna from Amazon or Costco (which I prefer)!
If you decide to give this recipe a go, show me on Instagram @nellamoon
xo, arielle ]]>Adaptogens are a select group of herbs & mushrooms that support the body's natural ability to deal with stress, energy, hormones, and much more. The crazy thing about these magical herbs is they they "adapt" their function to meet the needs of the body. I use these little wonders in many different recipes and I can't wait to share!
matcha or coffee
I drink my coffee every morning with local honey, almond milk, and cinnamon but when I feel a stressful week coming on, I add lions mane! I really like lion's mane as it is known to enhance mental focus and clarity. My brain is turned on to the max after a little lions mane. If you're not a coffee drinker, try adding it to matcha, a green tea powder loaded with antioxidants, and a stable version of caffeine.
smoothies
my smoothie is my time to load up on essentials that I may be lacking in my overall diet. I add a plant based or bone broth protein, and whatever adaptogens help with what's ahead for the week. I really like adding ashwagandha to my smoothie as it's a great energy balancer. It also has the ability to support hormone health (just don't overdo it) and most importantly, aid in a healthy stress response. I've recently been adding Reishi and Chaga to my smoothie for a boost in immunity.
capsule form
if you'd rather simply take a capsule and be done, there are many options on the market. A lot of people take ashwagandha in a capsule form and believe it or not, it's already included in many supplements that you may already be taking!
I've included a lot of my favorites below so many sure to check those out! And no, these are not sponsored, just my real opinion and recommendations.
be well!
arielle
]]>There's nothing better than a warm skillet chocolate chip cookie with a scoop of ice-cream on top. When you're sensitive to sugar and dairy, enjoying something like this is a challenge. So, I came up with my own way to have my cookie, and eat it, too (ha!).
Here's what you'll need:
Instructions:
That's it! Pretty easy and delicious! I've linked all of the staples from my kitchen that made this skillet cookie come to life!
xo,
arielle
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I like to eat with the seasons. What does this look like? It looks like choosing foods that are naturally in season. it's usually a more affordable way of eating and supports the body's natural cycle. They say Summer is for light, airy foods like salads, fruits, and cooler food. In the winter it looks like heavier, warmer foods like chunky soups and warmer, starchier foods.
This Summer, I created a magnificant salad and it's so good that I had to make a blog post out of it.
Here's how to make it...
Grab lettuce of choice
I use a 50/50 greens blend from Whole Foods but you can choose any lettuce of your choice. If you're a fan of mint, add a few leaves into your lettuce mix!
Add toppings
I add onions, feta cheese, walnuts, and dried cranberries but you can add whatever you'd like, that's what's so awesome about salads! Sometimes I add strawberries from my local farmers market for a hint of sweetness.
Make your dressing
Lastly, drizzle olive oil on top of the mixture and then follow with a dairy-free ranch of your choice! I love Tessemae's!
I've linked everything I buy for this salad below (besides the veggies of course)!
Enjoy!
xo, arielle ]]>
I still crave the delicious meals I would eat as a kid but most of them were horrible for me! As a kid, we can get away with eating this way but it catches up to us as we get older. I've put together a guide of healthier alternatives to pantry staples we all loved as children and I think you'll be adding these to your cart.
boxed pasta
rather than going for traditional white pasta, try Banza pasta instead. It's actually made from garbanzo beans so it packs in quite a bit of protein and less of a blood sugar swing!
white flour
I stay away from flour as it's loaded with not-so-good-for-you ingredients. Instead, I go for plant-based flours like almond or coconut. With fewer ingredients, these baking necessities pack in healthy fats for stable blood sugar.
peanut butter
Did you know that peanuts can cause extreme inflammation in some people? As yummy as it is, I try to stick with almond or walnut butter as they are less likely to cause inflammation. In addition, most peanut butter is actually "peanut spread". This means there are plenty of added ingredients like cottonseed oil, sugar, and other fillers that take away it being a one-ingredient food.
potato chips
Who can eat one potato chip? Nobody. Rather than giving my body greasy white potato chips, I chop up sweet potatoes finely, add some sea salt and stick them in the oven for a crisp, healthy alternative to potato chips!
cereal
Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, Fruity Pebbles, you name it and I can guarantee I loved it. I still crave cereal sometimes so I try to find healthier choices like this cereal alternative with healthy fats, moderate protein, and a delicious blueberry flavor.
What food did you love as a kid that you're missing? Try out one of me recommendations above and let me know what you think on Instagram @nellamoon.
]]>By now, I'm sure you've heard of the gut-brain connection. And if you haven't I'll give you a sweet little summary. The gut and brain are more intertwined than we ever thought. And according to research, the gut can actually affect your behavior and outlook on life.
Because of this, I put a lot of work into my gut health. And no, you don't have to buy a million supplements to work on your gut. Although some supplements help, gut health isn't corrected by supplements alone.
start in your home
did you know that bad tap water and environmental toxins can impact your gut health? I try to ensure that my home is as pure as possible which is why I use a water filter to eliminate lead, chlorine, and other toxins from my water. In addition, I use a shower head filter. Like mentioned, there are so many toxins in our water and I don't want them all over my body. You can shop for these two items below!
supplements
OK, here is where I will include supplements that have personally helped me in my gut health journey.
food
this is a big one! Gut health can start right in your kitchen. The foods that I consume daily include...
with all of this being said, one of the best things you can do for your gut health is dealing emotional and physical stress in a healthy way. Stress is inevitable! It's our job to take that stress and deal with it in a healthy way that nourishes our bodies.
give these tips a try and tag me on Instagram when you do @nellamoon!
]]>We all want glowing skin, I think we can all agree there. It wasn't until I focused on the inside of my body and healed myself from the inside out that I truly saw glowy skin. Our bodies drop hints about what's going on internally and these hints often appear in the skin. Take a look at what I eat for glowy skin year-round!
Walnuts
Rich in omega threes, these little guys are brain-shaped, brown in color, and rich in healthy fats for plump skin + major hormone support. They have been proven to naturally support the brain and heart health, too!
Plenty of probiotics
In addition to a good probiotic supplement, try to include a wide variety of probiotic-rich foods to support your gut. My favorites include kimchi, sauerkraut, and bone broth! I did a whole blog post on bone broth, it's benefits, and how I make it.
Salmon
Like walnuts, salmon is rich in healthy fats which in turn supports the skin. I try to eat wild-caught salmon 2-3 times a week. I've noticed plumper, youthful-looking skin.
Collagen
Although it's not necessarily a food, collagen is naturally found in foods like bone broth. You can take a supplement like I do if you're looking to really ramp up your collagen supply. Collagen works to support your gut, skin, hair, and nails + it naturally has a good amount of protein. Add it to smoothies, coffees, or whatever you want, you won't taste it!
What foods are you loving for glowing skin? Show me on Instagram @nellamoon!
xo,
Arielle
]]>"immune support" is probably the biggest marketing term being used right now. Ditch the daily stops at your local juice bar, save money, and boost your immunity with this turmeric shot! The great thing about this recipe is that it makes enough for you to store it and take it daily! Plus, it's juicer free and convenient.
here's what you'll need:
here's what to do:
that's it! It's so easy. All you have to do is put a lid on the mason jar and store it in the fridge. Enjoy a shot in the mornings or evenings or both! You can shop exactly what I used below!
if you try it, tag me on Instagram and let me know @nellamoon!
xo, arielle ]]>While I try my best to get my nutrients from real food, there are certain beneficial nutrients that our bodies either don't make enough of or don't make at all. With that being said, I try to find a good balance of only consuming what I need and not overdoing it. I've put together a written tour through my supplement cabinet and I can't wait for you to see it!
Vitamin D
This is a crucial component of immune health, reproductive support and it helps fight against seasonal depression. Make sure there aren't fillers, additives, or sugars! I choose this one.
Folate
Folate is an essential nutrient for cellular health, skin, and hair support and can also work to support the nervous and cellular systems. I choose this one and have been impressed.
Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body but sadly, it declines as we age and results in wrinkles, saggy skin, and cellulite. Collagen is proven to support hair, skin, nail, and gut health. I add a scoop to my smoothie or coffee and it adds a rich consistency with no flavor!
A good probiotic
I'm willing to invest in my gut health as it is linked to our overall wellness. You're only as healthy as your gut so you better take care of it. I take a soil-based probiotic. This means that the probiotics in these capsules are found in the soil naturally. I know, it sounds odd but it's proven to aid in gut health!
What supplements are you into right now? Share them with me on Instagram @nellamoon!
xo,
arielle
]]>I did a blog post not too long ago on what I eat in a day and received a lot of questions on my consumption of bone broth. After I have my morning coffee and before lunch, I make some bone broth to sip on and the benefits are pretty shocking. Plus, there are over 10 grams of protein in each serving!
Why I don't go a day without bone broth:
Bone broth is very rich in collagen, which helps with elasticity in the body. Without enough collagen, we see more cellulite, looser skin, brittle hair and nails, and oftentimes, a leaky gut. Many people have reported that bone broth has alleviated their leaky gut symptoms and boosted their overall health. There are many studies that suggest all bodily functions link back to the gut, specifically the brain. They say you are that you eat but really, you are only as healthy as your gut.
Which ones I trust
I buy this one at Costco but there are others that I like!
This one can be found on Amazon at a pretty good price point. If you like individual servings, you'll benefit from this one. If you feel like you wouldn't like the liquid version, there is a delicious powdered version available here. With a creamy vanilla flavor, it's perfect added to oatmeal, shakes, and dessert recipes.
How I prepare it
Grab whatever pot you'd like, I prefer stainless steel (linked below). Pour bone broth into the pot and let it simmer until it's to the temperature of your liking. I then add coconut aminos, organic dill weed, ginger, garlic powder, and turmeric. Lastly, I add it to my favorite mug and sip on the benefits!
Are you going to give bone broth a try? Let me know on Instagram @nellamoon!
]]>Alright, guys! I have discovered the best smoothie packed with gut benefits and plant based protein!
Grab your favorite blender and follow along!
First, start with almond milk! I buy this one at Costco and it's by far my favorite.
Next, you'll add a serving of this spirulina powder. Spirulina for those of you that think i'm crazy right now is an algae loaded with beneficial minerals and offers a deep green color.
I then add in one scoop of this protein powder. I found this one at Costco as well and it's loaded with superfoods and offers a satiating amount of plant-based protein. If you're looking for extra fiber and healthy fats, add in some organic chia seeds!
For extra energy, I add in maca root which is an ancient root known for its ability to support healthy energy levels! If you're looking to heighten your consumption of dark leafy greens but just can't seem to reach your goal, try this organic supergreens powder loaded with the most nutrient dense greens. It offers a mint, sweet flavor so there's no nasty aftertaste!
finally, add in some fruit of your choice! I personally love adding bananas for some extra gut support as they are rich in gut-supporting pre-biotics! I also recommend wild blueberries because of their superior antioxidant level!
Blend away and enjoy!
If you decide to make this smoothie, don't forget to share it with me on Instagram @nellamoon
I made a step by step video as I made this smoothie! You can watch it here!
xo,
arielle
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Raise your hand if you’ve ever watched “what’s in my fridge” vlogs on YouTube! *raises hand*
Today I’m going to give you a little rundown of items that I always have on hand.
Raw veggies
If you can’t tell if you’re bored or hungry, I recommend two things. Drink water and grab some raw carrots, cucumbers, peppers, or whatever raw veggies you’re loving. Pair them with some hummus for some extra fiber and plant-based protein!
Proteins
When it comes to meat and seafood, I always choose pasture-raised, grass-fed, and wild-caught sources. Because our system is so polluted, most animals are fed genetically modified corn, grains, and toxic pollutants. You can find these options at any grocery store. I usually go to Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s! I’m a big salmon fan and benefit greatly from the omega-three content. I also go for ground turkey or beef for taco nights!
Nut-milks
I don’t do well with dairy as it is known to cause inflammation. Instead, I go for almond, cashew, or oat milk. I recommend almond as it’s by far the most versatile.
Salad toppings
I keep toppings in my fridge so I can make a salad when I’m in a rush without having to chop everything up every single time. My favorites include cherry tomatoes, slivered almonds, avocado cubes, wild-caught salmon, shredded carrots and maybe a spoonful of hummus.
Celery for juicing
Yes, I have fallen into the celery juice trap and I absolutely love it. I’ve seen improvement in my digestion, inflammation, and skin. It’s pretty easy to make if you have a juicer. Just buy 3 bunches of organic celery, wash them, and then press them into your juicer! If I feel allergies coming on, I’ll add some ginger and lemon, too!
Nuts & seedsDid you know that because nuts and seeds have a higher oil content than other foods, they are more susceptible to go rancid? I keep mine in a glass jar tucked away in the fridge to extend their shelf life!
Dips and sauces
I am loving all things Primal Kitchen right now! They have done a great job of providing a clean alternative to our favorite toppings and condiments. Their lemon turmeric dressing is so good drizzled on salads. Plus, their ketchup is the cleanest I’ve seen!
Other snacks
Other snacks to always have on hand include a nut butter of choice, grain-free chips, fruit, Medjool dates, and any other raw foods you’re loving! For bars, I try to minimize my consumption just because I attempt to take in nutrition from whole foods. But, if I’m on the road, I’ll grab some perfect bars, RX bars or a Larabar! Sometimes, I’ll divide up an avocado, add some olive oil and sea salt and spoon it out to hold me over until dinner!
What’s in your fridge? Show me on Instagram @nellamoon!
Xo,
Arielle
Don’t have access to a gym or think you don’t have time to workout? I’ve created a guide with everything you’ll need to get a good sweat sesh in. Whether you’re on your kitchen floor waiting to take food out of the oven, in the backyard or in a hotel, I believe that you can do it!
First, find an outfit you feel confident in.
When you’re confident, you perform much better. I’ve found that when I buy a new workout outfit, I’m actually motivated to take my barre class. Depending on if you’re inside or outside and what type of workout you have planned, you may want either shorts or a pair of leggings. If you’re looking for some shorts that stay in place and feel like butter, go for these. If you’re looking for a great pair of leggings that can make it through any workout, these are a great choice! No more pulling my leggings up as I workout, thanks to these!
Looking for a top that goes with everything? I love the neckline of this one! Plus, it's great for a variety of activities.
Invest in shoes!
When it comes to shoes, I always find the most supportive platform I can. Doing so helps posture and form which in turn lowers your chances of injury. My favorite right now are these Asics. They’re so supportive and they make me feel really boosted.
Plan your space
It’s hard to feel motivated when you don’t have a foundation to work out on. The kitchen floor or concrete driveway doesn’t sound very tempting to me, either. Grab a yoga mat that you love and get going!
Find a clean protein source
Make sure you’re providing your body with the fuel it needs to perform! I add one scoop of this protein powder to my morning smoothie. Not only does it offer joint, skin, and gut support, but it also packs in 20g of clean protein into one scoop.
Vegan or vegetarian? Opt for this plant-based alternative. This is one of the only protein powders that is PROP 65 certified. Meaning it has been tested for heavy metals and impurities (and passed!) I combine it with some almond milk, almond butter, a good green powder and any frozen fruit I have on hand!
Don’t forget to wash your face!Breaking out and don’t know why? Make sure you’re at least wiping down your face after your workouts! Even if you’re not dripping in sweat, buildup still forms after a movement session! Here are my favorite non-toxic face wipes that I can use wherever I am!
Throw it all in a bag!
I can’t stress how important it is to stay organized for success! Pack a bag, set it next to the door and grab it on the way to your car! This is a miracle worker for those that want the extra 5 minutes of sleep. My favorite duffle can be found here. It sits in my backseat and is super comfortable to carry around. Here’s a peek into what’s in mine: a non-toxic deodorant (I love native), the wipes I mentioned above, a dress to change into if I have a meeting afterward, hair-ties, and my favorite water bottle.
So, how are you moving this week? If you try out any of my tips, make sure to tag me on Instagram @nellamoon!
xo,
arielle
owner of this photo: the beautiful @hannahg on Instagram!
Besides clothes, style, and lifestyle questions, I get many messages asking about workouts, wellness, and diet. My “diet” is pretty simple… I don’t believe in them!
I believe living an overall healthy lifestyle while indulging every once in a while is the healthiest route for me. Today, I’m going to show you what a typical day looks like with a schedule. Of course, every day is different. But if I had to give you an average day, this would be it!
Upon waking, (and before I talk to anyone) I reach for a cup of coffee. I do keep an eye out on how much coffee I have a day because too much can tax the adrenals and cause the jitters. I add local honey, which is great for seasonal allergies! In addition, I'll add almond milk and Ceylon cinnamon for some spice!
If you want to take it up a notch, try adding adaptogens! Adaptogens are awesome for boosting cognitive function, supporting a healthy stress response, and hormonal balance! You can find my favorite on the market here.
Around 11 A.M. I’ll have some organic bone broth. Bone broth is miraculous for your gut. It also contains abundant collagen levels for youthful joints, skin, nail, and hair health. I love this brand, but there are many great options on the market. You can even buy it in powdered form if that’s more convenient for you.
Once lunchtime rolls around, I always go for something with adequate amounts of protein to keep me full for a busy day ahead. Typically, I’ll go for a protein shake made with Bone Broth Protein, almond butter, almond milk, and a fruit of choice (I love wild blueberries)
If I’m not feeling a protein shake, I’ll cook up some wild-caught salmon and add some avocado on the side with some walnuts
Snacks include Siete chips or raw veggies with hummus.
For dinner, I stick to protein, fiber, and greens 80 percent of the time. My favorites include grass-fed beef, organic ground turkey, steamed veggies like brocolli, brussel sprouts, and kale. Sometimes I'll include sweet potato, too!
For dessert, I go for Medjool dates stuffed with almond butter and dark chocolate chips (I prefer this brand as there is no added sugar!)
Try making anything mentioned above and share it with me on Instagram @nellamoon! I can’t wait to see!
xo,
arielle
I am living proof that the term beauty sleep is real… I may turn into a pumpkin at midnight and I am way more fun after 8 hours of great sleep. It took me a while to realize how important it is to prioritize sleep. And being honest here, I’m willing to invest in good sleep if it helps me perform in life, work, and relationships. Take a look at my three-part formula for a night of deep sleep.
This anti-aging, anti-wrinkle pillowcase not only has supported my skin and hair, but the way it feels is so delightful. I’ve noticed less frizz and fewer fine lines.
Not willing to spend this much on a pillowcase? Take a look at this one. (Woah, that’s a lot of 5-star reviews)
Sleep in a cold, dark room
This tip requires you to buy nothing but works wonders for a deep snooze. They say you know your room is dark enough when you cannot see your hand in front of your face. My perfect temperature is a lovely 68 degrees. There’s plenty of evidence that supports this method. They say it may even support healthy fat loss...You can read more here.
Slip Pure Silk Eye MaskMajor princess vibes… I never thought this small silk accessory would deliver such an amazing sleep. It presses against the eyes perfect which I believe helps me doze off. In addition, It does a great job of blocking out all light so I’m not woken up when the sun rises at 5:35 A.M. Just like the pillowcase, the silk fabric leaves no marks on my face, unlike other eye masks.
Looking for a budget-friendly alternative? Check this one out from Amazon!
In addition to these tips, I enjoy grabbing a good book, making a cup of tea and burning your favorite candle to de-stress from your day. I'm loving this ginger tea by Yogi with a small spoonful of this Calm Magnesium, and the nellamoon Haven candle.
How are you getting your best sleep? And just out of curiosity, how many hours so you need to be a lovely human the following morning? Let me know on Instagram @nellamoon.
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