WEBSITE
heather-rest.com is a lifestyle blog featuring exclusive editorials, musings and unique (very thought-out and carefully chosen) promotions curated by creative influencer and writer, Heather Rest.
–you can find a categorized list of articles, here
Aloha,
Welcome to my online space! This blog was digitally born in 2015, as a creative outlet while I was back in college earning my second degree (a Bachelors in Health), while also, during that time, simultaneously navigating life as a military wife and first time mother.
HEALTH JOURNEY
I had just been diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, Hashimoto’s Disease/Thyroiditis (+hypothyroidism and some other related annoyances). I shortly came to the realization that the healthcare system in which I primarily relied on, only treated symptoms (using medications) and not the body as a systemic whole. That, along with becoming a mother, is what initially sparked my healing journey; while also confirming my decision to leave the legal field (my first career) behind. I started incorporating an Integrative/Functional Medicine outlook to my lifestyle and embraced a diet more focused on real, whole, nutritious foods. This was all driven by the absolute necessity to regain my wellness and energy. Seeing also that I had been an avid journal-er for most of my life, I figured: “Why not document this new journey and share it with others too?!” (+ a creative outlet that I very much needed at the time).
The initial journey led me to stumbling upon The Autoimmune Protocol, which is a powerful elimination diet/tool. The main goal of the protocol is to eliminate sources of food-based allergens that may compromise gut/immune system. I initially adopted and utilized the protocol when I first was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s (this is a condition in which the body attacks the thyroid) and it definitely improved many functions of my health — i.e. my thyroid antibody levels decreased by over half within just 2 months.
Over time, I also adopted more wellness routines (like drinking daily homemade bone broth) and have since found even further supportive treatment approaches, as well as new areas in need of focus, which I share about on my platforms.
ENJOY : THE ART OF LIFESTYLE BLOGGING
Although my healing journey is what first sparked the creation of this blog, there are a lot of other creative facets that are important to me as well, that I love to share!
MY BACKGROUND
I grew up (in the Midwest) with conservative values, yet with a vibrant curiosity and constant desire for independence. The same day that I graduated high school (at 17 y.o.) I also boarded a plane destined for Hawaii. As a little kid, my first memory of “what I wanted to be — when I grew up” was to be a police officer… then that goal transitioned in to a marine biologist. As a teenager: a “U.N. Goodwill Ambassador”. And as a first time college student – I thought I wanted to be an international lawyer. After finishing my Pre-Law degree (and many eventful years in paradise filled with studies and bold times) I made a career as a Civil Litigation Paralegal (the thought of law school debt ultimately is what changed my path).
So, if you didn’t catch all of that, I’ll summarize things…
I have worn many different hats within three decades of life thus far: a teenager leaving home on her own, a broke college student, an infatuated girlfriend, a reliable friend, an always-down-to-hang roomie, a loving sister, a minimum-wage employee, a single woman with a career, a world-traveler, a missionary, a doting daughter… a devoted wife… a dedicated mother.
However, it wasn’t until the weight of all of these experiences intermixed with newfound healing, responsibilities and passions — that I unlocked this creative calling and ultimately created a close-knit community that I cherish SO MUCH.
Having a very eclectic spirit and a wholesome heart for goodness…
…means that I also enjoy expressions of pure energy (in the forms of art, design, music, personal style, spirituality and travel). But although I have realized that the ability to fully experience the joy of these expressions is directly dependent on the status of our wellness and lifestyles — I don’t live perfectly!
Actually, I was beautifully created to be imperfect! *thank you, Jesus* Though I do aspire to possess a well-nourished body, my desire for a clean lifestyle is also balanced with indulging on occasion, adapting and experiencing joyful fun!
Therefore, part of this website is an Editor’s Blog, but more so and more profoundly, it is a journey towards creating an insightful template for exploring within a healthy balance of all aspects…
I hope that you find inspiration and connection to this mission of mine– there is no final destination, but rather an unlimited journey of well-being, liberty and passion. This is made possible by sharing images (personal and external), real-life experiences (life stories, big moments, small victories and everything in between), community connections, favorite products, writings, knowledge (both newfound & old)… & most importantly: REAL, AUTHENTIC CONTENT, always.
The passion for fun, desire for wisdom and the love of adventure will be shared through travel and alternative ways of life.
OH, and FOOD. My love affair with GOOD FOOD via recipes, brands, grocers, shops and restaurants.
All in all, the enthusiasm for living a well and fulfilling life!
If you have any questions, or for business inquires – head over to my Contact Page.
Sponsorships, Partnerships, and Collaborations Disclaimer: I only work with brands and share products that I genuinely believe in. I have built a loyal readership throughout my public platforms, and hence, place a tremendous value on the hard-earned trust that has been instilled between us over the years. I vow to always be transparent and HONEST.