Overwhelmed, Exhausted, Defeated: How Clean Plant Wellness Changed My Life

I recently saw something that said…

“Next time you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or defeated as a mom, remember this:

Parenting is only hard for the full engaged, overly invested, and deeply loving parents.”

And I felt that so deeply.

But, I would like to add that if you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or defeated…

there are solutions that can help you 🤎

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve felt it too. The weight of endless to-do lists, the sleepless nights, the relentless pressure to be everything to everyone. Overwhelmed. Exhausted. Defeated. Those three words summed up my life for far too long.

I love my children with every fiber of my being. That love is what kept me pushing forward, even on days when I felt like I had nothing left to give. But deep down, I knew that merely surviving wasn’t enough—not for me, not for them. I wanted to thrive. I wanted to experience the fullness of life with my children, not just exist alongside them in a constant state of fight or flight.

Finding Balance Through Clean Plant Wellness

It was during one of those particularly low moments that I knew something had to change. I was tired of feeling like a shell of myself, worn down by the endless cycle of stress and exhaustion. That’s when I discovered the power of clean, plant-based wellness.

By incorporating plant-based solutions like CBD, adaptogens, and functional mushrooms into my routine, I began to notice subtle yet profound changes. These natural tools helped regulate my nervous system, bringing me back into balance. Instead of living in a constant state of stress, I finally felt calm and centered. For the first time in years, I could truly enjoy my days with my children.

A Shift in Perspective

One of the biggest realizations I had was that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and defeated sometimes. Those emotions are part of loving deeply and giving so much of ourselves to the people we care about most. But what I learned is that we don’t have to stay in that place.

There are safe, natural solutions available to help us navigate those feelings with more ease. Clean plant wellness didn’t just alleviate the stress and exhaustion—it gave me back my joy. It allowed me to be fully present for my children in ways I couldn’t have imagined before.

Choosing Joy

Today, I wake up with more energy, more patience, and more peace. I still have hard days, of course, but they no longer define me. I’ve learned that taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it’s the key to being the mom I want to be.

If you’re feeling stuck, know that you’re not alone. And know that there are solutions out there that can help. You deserve to feel good. You deserve to thrive. You deserve to find joy again.

Let this be your reminder: it’s okay to ask for help, to seek out new solutions, and to prioritize your well-being. You’ll be amazed at how much it changes everything—not just for you, but for the ones you love most.

If you want to start feeling like yourself again but don’t know where to start, please shoot me an email here -> derico.jessica@gmail.com

I can help you with a regimen to fit your needs and help you along your journey as well.

And if this resonated with you and you’d like more like it, please join our wellness community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean

Solving Sleep Struggles

You guys… sleep is super important 💤✨

I listen to a podcast all about health & wellness when I’m running & just about every guest at some point speaks to the importance of getting enough, QUALITY, sleep. It is crucial for your health for a few reasons…

1. Stay Healthy 🏃‍♂️💪

Sleep helps your body repair & stay strong. It can keep your heart healthy and boost your immune system. Basically, more sleep means fewer sick days!

2. Boost Your Brainpower 🧠⚡

Your brain needs sleep to think clearly, remember stuff, & solve problems. Less sleep = more forgetful moments and brain fog.

3. Mood Magic 🌈😊

Ever notice how cranky you get when you’re tired? Sleep helps you stay happy & handle stress better. More sleep, more smiles!

4. Be a Star Performer 🌟🎯

Whether you’re studying, working, or playing sports, sleep helps you do your best. You’ll be more focused & make fewer mistakes.

5. Weight Control 🍎🏋️

Sleep affects your hunger hormones. Lack of sleep can make you crave junk food. Sleeping well helps you make healthier food choices.

6. Live Longer 🕰️❤️

Good sleep habits can add years to your life. It keeps you healthy & full of energy for the long haul.

I have some tips for better sleep for anyone who wants them! Just comment SLEEP & I’ll send them right over.

No gatekeeping here though… the absolute #1 thing that has completely changed my sleep is the half a jelly I take at night when I get in bed. I went from taking 30-60+ minutes to fall asleep & waking several times in the night to falling asleep quickly (without using Gilmore Girls or a sleep meditation) & I stay asleep ALL NIGHT! I wake up feeling refreshed & I actually have energy during the day. I can’t remember the last time I felt like that 🙌

If you want to grab these jellies, I’ll link them here -> if you take half like I do, this is a 2 month supply, & you’re getting my 20% discount + $10 off 😍➡️https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/cart/102084

Remember, good sleep = a happier, healthier you! 😴🌙

If you found this helpful, join us over in my Facebook Community, it’s where I spend the most time and share the most tips! https://www.facebook.com/share/o1bcxvoG6C4iQ4ZS/

If you want to start enjoying the moments of motherhood…

Welcome, dear readers, especially my fellow “crunchy” friends! I’m thrilled to have you here. If you’re new, don’t forget to hit follow and join our supportive community. Let’s be friends on this journey towards tranquility and well-being. 😊

Share Your Journey

I invite you to comment “ROUTINES” below, and I’ll gladly share my morning and nighttime routines designed specifically for overwhelmed moms. Together, we can transition from a state of constant stress to one of calm and peace. 🙌🏻

My Personal Journey

In recent months, I’ve been focused on lowering my cortisol levels, reducing stress and anxiety, and finding joy even in the challenging moments of motherhood (yes, that includes grocery shopping with two little kids 🤪).

The Importance of Routines

Morning Routine: Setting the Tone for Your Day

☀️ Proactivity Over Reactivity Without a centering morning routine, you may find yourself reacting to everything that comes your way instead of proactively managing your day. A well-structured morning routine helps you start the day with intention and clarity.

Regulating Your Nervous System: Plant-Based Wellness

🌱 Achieving Homeostasis Incorporating clean, plant-based wellness practices into your life is crucial for regulating your nervous system. High cortisol levels indicate that your body is in a constant state of fight or flight. By using natural wellness strategies, you can bring your body back to a balanced state. (My tried and true regimen is on sale for Memorial Day! You can get 30% off, free shipping, and $10 off first time orders here -> https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/share/573327) or message me for your custom recommendation!)

Nighttime Routine: Ensuring Restful Sleep

🌛 The Foundation of a Good Day A calming nighttime routine is essential for winding down and securing a good night’s rest. Poor sleep affects your entire next day, making it harder to handle stress and maintain energy levels.

Your Path to Calm and Peace

If you’re seeking a comprehensive plan to regulate your nervous system, lower cortisol levels, and reduce anxiety, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out; my DMs are always open for support and guidance. ☺️

You can also find me here ->
M.me/Jessie.rae.31 or join the wellness community here -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean

Together, let’s work towards a more peaceful, balanced, and joyful motherhood.

Slay your Sleep Struggles

Safe Swaps for Melatonin

I have always struggled with sleep. So, I’ve tried A LOT of safe sleep aid products.

I have a really hard time turning my brain off at night so it takes me a LONG time to fall asleep. I’m also a light sleeper, so little things wake me, and then I have trouble falling back asleep. I’ve been learning about the importance of sleep lately and the effects sleep deprivation have on your daily life and it’s pretty scary. The more “sleep debt” you have, the less executive function you have during the day. This means it’s harder to make decisions, think, and function as a human… Lack of sleep can even increase your risk of dying earlier than those who get enough sleep. Sleep is truly not something to be taken lightly. But, neither are the long term side effects of Melatonin. Despite my very serious sleep struggles, I would not touch melatonin. So, what are some safe alternatives? I’m glad you asked!

What I’ve used for the kids and/or myself:

Lavender Essential Oil – rolled on bottom of feet and/or back of neck

Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – dropped in mouth

Earthley’s Goodnight Lotion – rubbed on tummy and legs

Organic Tart Cherry Juice – consumed during the day

Epsom Salt baths before bed – in bath

Green Compass Sleep Boost – taken orally

Green Compass Sleep Jellies – consumed before bed (would recommend for age 2+ starting with 1/4 jelly)

Green Compass Full Spectrum Nano Jellies – consumed before bed (would recommend for age 5+ starting with 1/4 jelly)

My thoughts/experiences:

Lavender oil used on Willow – Noticed no improvement

Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Helps me fall and stay asleep a little bit. Helps Adeline fall and stay asleep as far as I can tell.

Eathley’s Goodnight Lotion – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Adeline loves it. Does nothing for me.

Organic Tart Cherry Juice – Noticed no improvement for Willow.

Epsom Salt baths before bed – Noticed no improvement for sleeping but does help calm both kids and make bedtime routine easier.

Green Compass Sleep Boost – Helps me fall and stay asleep more than the Earthly tincture but not as well as the jellies.

Green Compass Sleep Jellies – These work amazingly. They are my favorite thing I’ve used for myself. These help me sleep the best of anything I’ve tried. I fall asleep faster and stay asleep ALL NIGHT!

Green Compass Full Spectrum Nano Jellies – These also work amazingly. They knock me out really fast and put me into a DEEP sleep. If you want a really good, restorative deep sleep, these are for you.

Links (it means the world to my family when you use my links to shop!):

Earthley – https://earthley.com/ref/dericoj/

Cherry Juice –https://amzn.to/3SUFwKI

Green Compass – https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/share/573327

*the Green Compass link gets you $10 off your first order*

Safe Swaps for Melatonin

I’ve seen so many desperate mommas lately looking for help with either their sleep or their kids’ sleep. Anyone who knows me personally knows my 16 month old Willow has struggled with sleep since she was born. I also have never been a good sleeper with my biggest issue being falling asleep. Because of this, I’ve tried A LOT of safe sleep aid products for myself and Willow.

What I’ve used for the girls and/or myself:

Lavender Essential Oil – rolled on bottom of feet

Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – dropped in mouth

Earthley’s Goodnight Lotion – rubbed on tummy and legs

Organic Tart Cherry Juice – consumed during the day

Epsom Salt baths before bed – in bath

Green Compass Sleep Boost – in belly button

Green Compass Sleep Jellies – consumed before bed (would recommend for age 3+ starting with 1/4 jelly)

My thoughts/experiences:

Lavender oil used on Willow & myself – Noticed no improvement

Earthley’s Sleepy Time Tincture – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Helps me fall and stay asleep but not the best thing I’ve tried. Helps Adeline fall and stay asleep.

Eathley’s Goodnight Lotion – Noticed no improvement for Willow. Adeline loves it for her growing pains.

Organic Tart Cherry Juice – Noticed no improvement for Willow.

Epsom Salt baths before bed – Noticed no improvement for sleeping but does help calm both kids and make bedtime routine a little easier.

Green Compass Sleep Boost – The FIRST thing that has genuinely improved Willow’s sleep. Since starting it she went from waking 4-5 times a night to 1-2 and sleeping 2-3 hour stretches to over 6! All the hallelujah hands for this one 🙌🙌🙌🙌

Green Compass Sleep Jellies – Only tried myself so far and they work amazingly. These help me fall and stay asleep the best of anything I’ve tried.

Links (it means the world to my family when you use my links to shop!):

$10 off Green Compass – https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/share/573327

Cherry Juice – https://amzn.to/3SUFwKI

Epsom Salt – https://amzn.to/49I5tCW

Earthley – https://earthley.com/ref/dericoj/

Let me know if you try any of these and how they work for you! And for more content like this, make sure you’re in my wellness community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean/

Stay well!