Cozy Up & Stay on Track

Hi, Healthi fam! Coach Brianna here!

If you know anything about me, you know I’m a cozy girl through and through. Warm beverages, soft blankets, and comfy sweatpants? That’s my happy place. But instead of just enduring the cold, I’ve found ways to infuse coziness into my health routine—making winter feel a little more magical and a lot more enjoyable.

Here’s how I bring cozy into my health goals:

‍

1. Soup Season is the Best Season

Let’s be real—soup is basically a warm hug in a bowl. It’s also a fantastic way to load up on veggies and protein in one comforting meal. Whether it’s a homemade minestrone, a classic chicken noodle, or one of my absolute favorites—Emily Bites' Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup (recipe here)—you can create a hearty, BITES-friendly meal that nourishes both your body and soul.

‍

2. Tea: Hydration with a Hug

We all know hydration is key, and in the winter, tea is one of my favorite ways to stay warm and meet my water goals. Bonus? Different teas offer extra benefits—like calming chamomile, antioxidant-packed green tea, or digestion-friendly peppermint.

One of my all-time favorites (yes, even since high school!) is Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat. As a singer, it’s my go-to for soothing my throat, and just the scent of it brewing brings me instant comfort. Plus, it has zero calories—cozy and guilt-free!

‍

3. Warm Salads—Yes, Really!

Hear me out—sauté your salad. Yes, it wilts the lettuce a bit, but trust me, that’s part of the magic.

Lately, I’ve been using salad kits as a base, tossing them into a pan with some chicken sausage or another protein, drizzling on a little of the included dressing, and—my secret weapon—adding eggs! It turns into a nutrient-packed, flavorful veggie scramble that’s warm, satisfying, and oh-so-cozy.

‍

4. Warm Fruit = The Ultimate Cozy Hack

Think fruit crisp, but customizable to your taste and health goals!

You can go all out with a buttery, full-sugar crisp (no regrets), or keep it light with a quick, easy swap. One of my go-to tricks? Sliced apples with cinnamon in the microwave. It’s warm, naturally sweet, and gives me that cozy, dessert-like feel—without the extra BITES! Here's the recipe:

Cozy Cinnamon Apples (Microwave Recipe)

Ingredients:

• 1 medium apple (any variety you like)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 tsp sweetener of choice (honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute – optional)
• 1 tbsp water
• A pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

Instructions:

1. Slice the apple into thin wedges or bite-sized chunks (peeling is optional).
2. Place the apple slices in a microwave-safe bowl.
3. Sprinkle with cinnamon, add vanilla (if using), and drizzle with sweetener.
4. Add 1 tbsp of water and a tiny pinch of salt. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
5. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
6. Microwave for 1–2 minutes, or until the apples are soft and fragrant. Stir halfway through.
7. Let cool slightly, then enjoy on its own or topped with Greek yogurt, granola, or a dollop of nut butter!

‍

‍

Cozy and In Control

Winter can feel long, but spring is coming. Instead of letting the cold tempt us into comfort foods that don’t align with our goals, let’s find nutritious ways to create that same cozy feeling—without the guilt.

So tell me—what are your favorite ways to stay cozy while staying healthy? Let’s share and inspire each other!

‍