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# InDependent

Connecting Military Spouses to Health and Wellness Resources and Support

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://in-dependent.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Articles](https://in-dependent.org/articles/)
- [How to Improve Your Health and Wellness with Smart Goals in 2023](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-improve-your-health-and-wellness-with-smart-goals-in-2023/) - Tips about creating SMART goals for your nutrition, fitness, sleep, mindfulness, and stress management from certified health and wellness coach, Beth Bookout.
- [Four Ways To Support Your Spouse - and Yourself - In Preparing for Military Retirement](https://in-dependent.org/preparing-for-military-retirement/) - For “old school” folks, who like paper calendars, 2023 might bring something new and important - a special date, circled, starred, hearted, or otherwise celebrated on the family calendar. The date of our Service Member’s transition or retirement from military service. A date when you stop being an active-duty, reserve, or national guard family and
- [Proactive Men's Health: Why Aren't You Making Better Choices Now for a Better Future?](https://in-dependent.org/proactive-mens-health/) - Toby Ralph, a fellow military spouse, shares his expertise as a personal trainer and natural bodybuilding coach, giving a holistic approach to men's health.
- [Pain Between the Sheets? There's a Better Solution Than "Drink Wine and Relax"](https://in-dependent.org/pain-between-the-sheets-theres-a-better-solution-than-drink-wine-and-relax/) - If you or your partner have ever experienced painful intercourse, you know how detrimental this can be in relationships. The good news is education and access to appropriate treatments can be a game changer.
- [How to Expand Your Sense of Resilience to Handle Life's Challenges](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-expand-your-sense-of-resilience-to-handle-lifes-challenges/) - Alison Portis, an Army wife and certified wellness professional, discusses stress inoculation, how movement and the outdoors affect your brain, and how community increases your capacity for resilience as ways to expand your resilience in your everyday life.
- [Exercise is Important for Every Body Type](https://in-dependent.org/exercise-is-important/) - I’m a 42-year-old woman weighing in at 107 pounds on a good day. People regularly ask me why I work out. Many quickly say that there's no need for me to lose weight. Well, I’m not trying to lose weight, and exercise isn’t just about weight loss. MY BODY IMAGE STRUGGLE As a youth, I
- [How to Make Successful Professional Transitions As a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/professional-transitions/) - InDependent’s Samantha Peterson sat down with Yahoo Small Business’ Chris Wayne to gain insight on career, balance, and carving purpose-driven pathways to success. As a former sergeant in the 82nd Airborne and current chief technology officer whose platform is very invested in helping support successful small businesses, we think he knows a thing or two
- [Keep Your Business Cool This Summer](https://in-dependent.org/keep-your-business-cool-this-summer/) - Summer is here and let’s be honest—we’re already tired just thinking about the weeks to come. The kids are out of school for the summer, family is coming to visit, and PCS season is here. It is easy to become overworked and exhausted during the most chaotic months of the year. However, there is nothing
- [Five Healthy Ways to Welcome New Neighbors](https://in-dependent.org/five-ways-to-welcome-neighbors/)
- [How to Host a Simple Summer Soirée](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-host-a-simple-summer-soire/) - ABOUT MEGHAN MEREDITH Meghan Meredith is an Air Force wife currently stationed in Los Angeles, CA. She is the founder of HomeBodySoul, a lifestyle wellness brand for women where she seeks to inspire and educate women on how to best steward their homes, bodies, and souls. She is a Certified Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor,
- [Learn Your Triggers and How to Cope with Allergies During PCS Season](https://in-dependent.org/learn-your-triggers-and-how-to-cope-with-allergies/) - PCS season and allergies are here! I’ve been seeing lots of people with increased allergies lately. These can add extra baggage when you are getting ready to move to your next duty station. They also can be a sign that you need to check in with your body. Here’s a crash course on how to
- [Five Ways to Cope With PCS Envy](https://in-dependent.org/pcsenvy/) - Moving is hard. But sometimes, it’s even harder not to. That’s how it feels to me anyway. I have zest for the part of military life that many other spouses dread beyond all other – the move. I blame this irrational need to constantly have my life in boxes on having grown up in an
- [Four Wellness Tips for Your Next Road Trip](https://in-dependent.org/four-wellness-tips-for-your-next-road-trip/) - Whether you are preparing for a PCS move or going on vacation, there are things you can do to keep your stress low and your wellness goals on track. Long drives and cramped cars can be stressful on vacation. Add the logistics of packing your family, pets, valuables, non-packable liquids, and maybe even house plants
- [The Men’s Health Guide for Military Spouses](https://in-dependent.org/the-mens-health-guide-for-military-spouses/) - From resistance training to nutrition, discover 4 critical health and fitness considerations for male military spouses taking charge of their well-being.
- [Don't Fear Winter! Try These Tips for the Best Outdoor Adventures](https://in-dependent.org/dont-hate-winter-try-these-tips-for-the-best-outdoor-adventures/) - Kailey Brown, co-founder of Military Wild, an organization that promotes outdoor adventures for members of the military community, provides helpful tips for hiking with your family during the winter season. Read on to prepare for a snowy adventure with your spouse and kids on the trail, wherever you're located!
- [How to Extend the Life of Your Produce and Find Storage Space in any Pantry](https://in-dependent.org/extend-the-life-of-your-produce/) - It’s no secret that, as a military family, the list of stressors is long; food storage should not be one of those stressors. Because the food choices that you make are important for providing quality nutrition, knowing how to plan and store your food purchases will help you make the best decisions for your family’s needs.
- [How One Military Spouse Used a Perspective Shift to Unlock Creativity and Wellness](https://in-dependent.org/how-one-military-spouse-used-a-perspective-shift-to-unlock-creativity-and-wellness/) - Creativity Beyond the Canvas: The Power of a Perspective Shift Creativity comes in many forms, and everyone has the potential to be creative. But what if you were told that the most powerful form of creativity had nothing to do with paintbrushes or musical notes? Here at InDependent, the space for military spouse wellness, we
- [Cultivate a Flourishing Life and Strength During Transitions: Recapping Day Five of the 2025 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/cultivate-a-flourishing-life-and-strength-during-transitions-recapping-day-five-of-the-2025-independent-wellness-summit/) - Learn how Maria Mendez Reed & Joanne Lipman prioritize wellness & navigate transition. Gain insights on cultivating creativity, managing careers, & reinvention.
- [How to Be Motivated for Change: Five Actions You Can Take Today](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-be-motivated-for-change-five-actions-you-can-take-today/) - Finding the motivation to make changes in your life can be hard, especially if you don't feel ready, worthy, or capable. Noralee walks us through five actions that you can take today to get started. "It doesn’t really matter who you’re starting out on this journey for—just start it. If you do it with a desire to learn, grow and heal, and feel happier, you will get there."
- [How to Find Your Motivation as a Modern Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-find-your-motivation-as-a-modern-military-spouse/) - Julie Tully, self-proclaimed cowgirl-turned-nomadic navy spouse, gets real as she discusses what to do when the modern military spouse life leaves you feeling unmotivated. Through decades of experience, Tully explains what to do when your emotions get the best of you, when that amazing new duty station doesn't quite seem that way for you, and how to navigate the many resources that can help.
- [Lessons from a Backyard Garden](https://in-dependent.org/lessons-from-a-backyard-garden/) - There’s a growing interest in incorporating more plants into our diets. It is downright easy these days to find excellent plant-based cookbooks and restaurant menus, which is nice for variety even if you don’t follow the lifestyle all the time. There has also been a growing interest these past few years in growing our own
- [Three Healthy Habits Learned During Cold German Winters](https://in-dependent.org/coldgermanwinterhabits/) - Winter in Germany typically starts in late October with a bitter cold that lasts well into March. Part of this season is accompanied by snow, but more often than not, it is just wet and dreary. Even so, Germans have found a way to beat the winter blues by incorporating wellness into their daily routines.
- [Seven ways to meet new friends](https://in-dependent.org/meetnewfriends/) - As we rapidly approach the New Year, I've already started jotting down my personal resolutions. The goals I've established this year are especially important as we plan to ring in 2014 at a new duty station. For us this means a new city, new home, new job, and of course new friends. A blank canvas
- [InDependent Celebrates a Decade of Empowering and Supporting Military Spouses Through Wellness and Mental Health Initiatives ](https://in-dependent.org/independent-celebrates-a-decade-of-empowering-and-supporting-military-spouses-through-wellness-and-mental-health-initiatives/) - InDependent, the sole nonprofit organization dedicated to exclusively supporting the mental health and holistic well-being of military spouses across all branches of the Armed Forces, is proud to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, InDependent has emerged as an innovative leader for military spouse wellness, filling a crucial gap in support amidst a
- [InDependent and The USAA Educational Foundation Join Forces to Expand Reach of Financial Resources for Military Spouses](https://in-dependent.org/independent-and-the-usaa-educational-foundation-join-forces-to-expand-reach-of-financial-resources-for-military-spouses/) - InDependent, the nonprofit organization dedicated to making wellness accessible for all military spouses worldwide through mental health and holistic wellness resources, is proud to announce The USAA Educational Foundation (USAAEF) as a new sponsor of their Financial Wellness Branch. This sponsorship recognizes the critical role military spouses play in the financial security of military families. “InDependent’s focus
- [How to Have a Healthier Relationship with Food](https://in-dependent.org/healthier-relationship-with-food/) - HOW TO HAVE A HEALTHIER RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD It’s a new year again and it seems like many military spouses are on a diet, cleanse, detox, you name it, making it easy to be swayed by the masses of opinions, trends, and advice out there. From keto to vegan and everything in between, it’s hard
- [Spouse Wellness Check: Six Questions to Ask Each Other](https://in-dependent.org/spouse-wellness-check/) - We created a Spouse Wellness Check to help facilitate this important conversation between you and your spouse. Download here!
- [Cultivate Belonging and Self-Discovery through the Enneagram: Recapping Day One of the 2025 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/cultivate-belonging-and-self-discovery-through-the-enneagram-recapping-day-one-of-the-2025-independent-wellness-summit/) - Charles Vogl shared how intentional gatherings create stronger communities and a true sense of belonging. His insights will leave you thinking about how you connect with those around you. Kellie Artis explored the Enneagram as a tool for understanding ourselves and others, helping us navigate transitions and build deeper relationships.
- [Cultivate Open Communication and Financial Wellness: Recapping Day Two of the 2025 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/cultivate-open-communication-and-financial-wellness-recapping-day-two-of-the-2025-independent-wellness-summit/) - Zach Watson and Louvenia Locklear shared insights that can help you create stability and confidence in these key areas of wellness. Zach Watson broke down the invisible mental load many people carry in relationships, offering ways to share responsibilities and improve communication. Louvenia Locklear reminded us that financial health is a huge part of overall well-being, sharing simple steps to gain control of your money and make informed decisions.
- [Cultivate Authentic Growth and Genuine Connections: Recapping Day Three of the 2025 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/cultivate-authentic-growth-and-genuine-connections-recapping-day-three-of-the-2025-independent-wellness-summit/) - Day three’s interviews with Laurel Smith and Cindy Sullivan reminded us that organization, creativity, and connection all play a role in our well-being. - Laurel Smith shared how she turned her creative vision into a thriving business, showing us that creativity and organization can bring peace and clarity. - Cindy Sullivan spoke about the importance of finding a strong community, especially in military life, and how to cultivate relationships that support your wellness.
- [Cultivate Joy Through Change and Mindful Nourishment: Recapping Day Four of the 2025 InDependent Wellness Summit ](https://in-dependent.org/cultivate-joy-through-change-and-mindful-nourishment-recapping-day-four-of-the-2025-independent-wellness-summit/) - On Day 4, Cultivate Joy Through Change and Mindful NourishmentToya Cheri and Kate Lyman gave us fresh perspectives on healing through creativity and building lasting wellness habits. - Toya Cheri shared her powerful story of finding purpose through grief and challenges, using creativity and DIY projects as a way to heal and bring joy. - Kate Lyman broke down how to build sustainable wellness habits, offering practical tips on fitness, nutrition, and giving yourself grace on your health journey.
- [Embrace Old and New Traditions This Holiday Season](https://in-dependent.org/holiday-traditions/) - As a relatively new military spouse, I am constantly learning to embrace everything that military life throws my way. One challenge is being away from family around the holidays. It may be hard to adjust and to recreate those memories and traditions that you grew up with. For instance, it can be difficult to go
- [Food Neutrality: How to Make Peace with Your Food for the Holidays](https://in-dependent.org/food-neutrality-how-to-make-peace-with-your-food-for-the-holidays/) - Now is the time of year when headlines will tell you all the tips and tricks for making Thanksgiving recipes healthier and how to stay fit for the holidays. As a Registered Dietitian I know this well because I’ve made a career of writing these articles. I can tell you just about every healthy recipe
- [Skip the clip: Save money on groceries without coupon](https://in-dependent.org/skiptheclip/) - As our family grew and our food habits changed for the better, I needed to look for ways to stretch our grocery budget and still eat well. Society taught me that coupons are the solution even though clipping always felt like a lot of work and time for little pay-off. In the end, I wound
- [Why Food Insecurity is a Growing Problem for the Military Community](https://in-dependent.org/food-insecurity/) - Over the past few years, the growing conversation about military families facing food insecurity has caught more and more media attention. But, there still seems to be stigma, confusion, and general shock when the topic is brought up. For clarity, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) describes food insecurity as “a household-level economic and social
- [Wellness Spotlight | Brittany Hampton | Love of Fitness Despite Health Issues](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-brittany-hampton/) - Wellness Wednesday Spotlight | Brittany Hampton of Stroller Strong Moms Southern Pines | Photo CC @Helloblondiephotography
- [The Health Benefits of the Great Outdoors](https://in-dependent.org/movement-outside-benefits/) - In January of 2020 I realized I needed to make some changes in my wellness journey. I was feeling stressed and could not figure out exactly what the root issue was. We had been living at our current duty station for just over a year and I felt mostly settled in, but something still wasn’t
- [Eight Easy Steps to Save Money and Limit Waste Before Moving](https://in-dependent.org/save-money-and-limit-waste/) - According to the nonprofit organization Feeding America, Americans waste more than $218 billion each year on food, with dairy products being the food item tossed out the most. The average American family of four throws out $1,600 a year in produce. One of the top reasons Americans waste food is they forget what they have.
- [Focus On Recovery Time To Keep Fit As You Age](https://in-dependent.org/focus-on-recovery-time-to-keep-fit-as-you-age/) - AGE AND FITNESS TRANSITIONS “How much does age affect my workouts?” The answer is a little more complex than many want to admit. Physical training, like many things, will change as we get older. There is no sugar coating it. Once we hit our 30’s and that "check engine light" comes on, we have to
- [Unlock a Healthier You: Embrace a Multifaceted Wellness Journey](https://in-dependent.org/unlock-a-healthier-you/) - Wellness had become an overused buzzword. Toby Ralph, a Certified Personal Trainer, breaks down how to define wellness for yourself.
- [How to Find Your Community as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-find-community/) - If there’s one thing military spouses are familiar with, it’s how valuable our support networks are. I’ve learned this firsthand over the years and it’s served me well. In fact, it’s helped me grow both personally and professionally! When I was a 22-year-old college senior, my then boyfriend, now husband, decided to take a step into
- [5 Things I Do With My Friends During Deployments](https://in-dependent.org/5thingstododuringdeployments/) - Chances are, if you are reading this article you currently have a deployed spouse or one that will deploy or leave for an extended period of time in the future. And chances are, you’re nervous and wondering what you are going to do with all your free time. How do I know this? Because I
- [5 PCS Strategies for Navigating the Space Between Leaving and Arriving](https://in-dependent.org/5-pcs-strategies-for-navigating-the-space-between-leaving-and-arriving/) - PCS season in upon us, and once again many of us find ourselves in that in-between space between leaving one place and arriving in another. You’ve said your goodbyes…perhaps multiple times. You’re sad to be leaving, but at the same time you feel so-freaking-ready for something new. The hellos on the other side are pending.
- [Why Does Maternal Health Matter? My Personal Story Through Postpartum Depression](https://in-dependent.org/why-does-maternal-health-matter-my-personal-story-through-postpartum-depression/) - Diana Lo Jones, a Navy spouse, speaks candidly about the harrowing journey she had through postpartum depression following the births of her two children. From extreme sleep deprivation to a misdiagnosis of her mental health state, Lo Jones shares how building a supportive network literally saved her life.
- [Three Ways to Help Your Military Child Stand Out](https://in-dependent.org/milchildstandout/) - Explore how parents can help their military children stand out through travel, education, and extracurricular activities. Discover insights and strategies to provide enriching experiences, despite the challenges of military life.
- [How to Create a Proactive Healthy Lifestyle as a Military Family](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-create-a-proactive-healthy-lifestyle-as-a-military-family/) - Explore four tips to create a proactive healthy lifestyle as a military family: routine, eating healthy, physical fitness, and good communication.
- [Five Tips for a Healthy Transition of Any Kind](https://in-dependent.org/five-tips-for-a-healthy-transition-of-any-kind/) - Army wife Alecia offers five tips for navigating any transition that comes your way. By maintaining healthy practices, you can take control of your health while things beyond your control may be changing in your life.
- [How to Execute Dinner When the Home Chef is Out](https://in-dependent.org/executedinner/) - [et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Dinnertime can become chaos when the home chef is out of the house for the evening. Maybe family members fend for themselves. Maybe leftovers, frozen pizza, or mac and cheese save the night. That’s
- [Radical Intimacy and Disaster Preparedness: Recapping Day One, Session Two of the 2023 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/radical-intimacy-and-disaster-preparedness-independent-wellness-summit-2023-recap/) - Read about the featured interviews for day one of the 2023 InDependent Wellness Summit: Zoe Kors talked about radical intimacy and Diane Vukovic talked about emergency preparedness.
- [Laughter, Stress Relief, and Self-Care: Recapping Day Two, Session Two of the 2023 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/independent-wellness-summit-2023-recapping-day-two-session-two-laughter-and-stress-relief/) - Read about the featured interviews for day two of the 2023 InDependent Wellness Summit: Ashley Gutermuth talked about finding purpose in adversity and MAJ Adhana McCarthy talked about practices you can use in your life to be well.
- [Financial Wellness: Recapping Day Three, Session Two of the 2023 InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/financial-wellness-recapping-day-three-session-two-of-the-2023-independent-wellness-summit/) - On Day 3 of the 2023 InDependent Wellness Summit, Lacey Langford talked about financial wellness, making the most of military benefits, and how military spouses can take care of themselves financially.
- [Five Winter Wellness Road Trip Essentials](https://in-dependent.org/winterroadtripessentials/) - PCS moves or long family road trips are stressful by themselves. Adding winter driving conditions on top can negatively affect your health. Use these simple winter wellness road trip essentials to help reduce the impact.
- [How to Better Your Mental Health as a Male Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/male-military-spouse-mental-health/) - Toby Ralph, a physical health advocate, shares his experience with mental health as a male military spouse by highlighting five different aspects of life where male military spouses can focus to improve their overall mental health.
- [How to Cultivate Holistic Wellness as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/cultivate-holistic-wellness-as-a-military-spouse/) - Are you tired of feeling stressed, unfulfilled, and out of balance? If so, it might be time to embrace holistic wellness. Holistic wellness is generally defined as taking care of your mind, body, and soul together in order to achieve overall well-being. However, it isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. It encompasses a multi-dimensional state that goes
- [Why Spending Time Outside is Good for Your Health and How to Get Started Today](https://in-dependent.org/spending-time-outside-is-good-for-your-health/) - We all have stress. It comes in many forms. As a military spouse, you might be dealing with constant cycles of stress due to deployments, moves, lack of employment, etc. Recently, I felt like stress was hitting me from every direction. My husband was alerted for a no-notice deployment overseas, I had just accepted an
- [How to Create Your Personalized Vision Board](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-create-your-personalized-vision-board/) - Visualization is a powerful tool military spouses can use to see and discern goals, dreams, and the lifestyle you desire to live. Creating a vision board is a tangible, inspirational way to help you imagine and determine what you want to do in the days and weeks ahead.
- [Invite Happiness Into Your Everyday Life](https://in-dependent.org/invite-happiness-into-your-everyday-life/) - What lights you up and brings you joy? I’ve been a happy person my whole life, definitely a glass-is-half-full kind of gal. Yet, while juggling my roles as a military spouse, mama, full-time scientist, and part-time entrepreneur, making time for the little things that support my happiness hasn’t been easy. Living with a positive attitude
- [The Sparkling Mocktail Recipe That Will Delight Your Holiday Guests](https://in-dependent.org/mocktail-recipe/) - ‘Tis the season for a great mocktail! Whether you’re simply not in the mood for a booze-filled beverage or, like me, choose mocktails over cocktails because you don’t like the way alcohol makes you feel, even in small doses. Here’s a recipe that hits all the right notes—sweet, spicy, sour, tart. If you’re hosting a
- [Tips on How to Embrace Being “ALONE” as a Military Spouse and Not Dread It](https://in-dependent.org/tips-on-how-to-embrace-being-alone-as-a-military-spouse-and-not-dread-it/) - Michelle Ann, a military spouse of thirteen years, offers five tips on navigating that "alone" time that inevitably comes with being a military spouse. From self-care to outsourcing childcare, Ann has found ways to make "alone" time some of the best time!
- [How Limiting Your Sense of Self Can Limit Your Coping Outlets](https://in-dependent.org/how-limiting-your-sense-of-self-can-limit-your-coping-outlets/) - Toby, a military spouse focused on physical health and well-being, utilizes his lens as a male military spouse to discuss how he's found ways to cope with the stressors of being associated with the military. By figuring out who you are outside of the military lifestyle you live, Toby explains it is essential to not let one thing define you.
- [How to Advocate for Your Military Child When Bullying Happens](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-advocate-for-your-military-child-when-bullying-happens/) - Diana Lo Jones, a navy spouse of twelve years, experienced what no parent wants to go through - she realized her 5-year-old son was being bullied at school. Add an upcoming deployment and you get the unique challenges that military families face.
- [Make Your Expectations Meet Your Reality: Solving These Questions Will Help!](https://in-dependent.org/simplify-expectations/) - “You can do anything, but not everything.” -David Allen Expectations are always lurking. They are fleeting, ever changing, and often impossible to meet. There is no checklist, or how-to manual on how to successfully manage expectations from our family, workplace, community, schools, friends, volunteer commitments, and most importantly ourselves. Meeting expectations is like trying to
- [You Can Use Free Military Resources for Better Mental Health](https://in-dependent.org/free-military-resources-for-mental-health/) - Life can be difficult. And while that is true for everyone, it can still be hard to reach out for help. You can get stuck in your head, thinking things are worse for others, and feel guilty that you are struggling. You can wonder “Why can’t I keep it together?” You can look at the
- [Day 2 - IWS23 Recap: Parenting in Blended Families with Chaplain (LTC) Terrell Jones](https://in-dependent.org/day-2-iws23-recap-parenting-in-blended-families-with-chaplain-ltc-terrell-jones/) - I love military Chaplains. The number of times they have said the right thing or given my husband the perfect book that has pointed us in the right direction is too many to share. When I saw that Chaplain Jones would be speaking, I was excited to hear some profound words of wisdom, and I
- [Day 1 - IWS23 Recap: Cultivating Empathy in Early Childhood with Shermaine Perry-Knights](https://in-dependent.org/day-1-iws23-recap-cultivating-empathy-in-early-childhood-with-shermaine-perry-knights/) - "I move a lot, and that's okay!" Listening to Shermaine, a military child and now an adult military child, gives us such deep insight into what military children go through and how parents can help their families along the way. As a mom who never moved as a child, I find it difficult to understand
- [Day 2 - IWS23 Recap: Holistic Care for Teens with Dr. Amber Mattingly](https://in-dependent.org/day-2-l-iws23-recap-holistic-care-for-teens-with-dr-amber-mattingly/) - The forgotten age: I had never considered the pre-teen age as often left out or slotted into a different group entirely, but the truth hurts, and I realized Dr. Amber Mattingly was right. She beautifully opens us up to a world through a pre-teen’s eyes. She bends her two worlds as an experienced yogi and
- [Day 1 - IWS23 Recap: Rediscover New Beginnings with Amanda Dodson, Doula](https://in-dependent.org/day-1-iws23-recap-rediscover-new-beginnings-with-amanda-dodson-doula/) - Amanda, or the Zen Doula, as she is often referred to, shares information with us about the opportunity to have a doula for expectant moms. WHAT IS A DOULA? A doula is a nonmedical professional who is there to help parents navigate through birthing options. This service can range from birth to postpartum and lactation.
- [Day 3 - IWS23 Recap: Adult Children and Extended Family Relationships with Corie Weathers, LPC](https://in-dependent.org/day-3-iws23-recap-adult-children-and-extended-family-relationships-with-corie-weathers-lpc/) - Launching your child into adulthood Launching - I love that term. It immediately makes me think this is a positive movement forward. In this conversation, Corie expertly weaves a beautiful discussion into the adult relationships we, as military spouses, have or can have in the future, from preparing our child to leave the nest with
- [Military Teen Shares 6 Tips for Parents Guiding Their Teen Through Military Life](https://in-dependent.org/tips-for-parenting-a-military-teen/) - This past June, confetti fell to the ground as I graduated from high school. Years of hard work spanning several states and continents all led up to that walk across the stage. Afterward, I quickly exited the auditorium and rushed into the open arms of the ones who helped me get there: my mom and
- [IWS21 Day 3: Be Well in Food and Finances](https://in-dependent.org/iws21-day-three-recap/) - We’re already halfway through the InDependent Wellness Summit recaps and there’s so much inspiration to be found in each and every interview. If you missed Day One or Day Two, make sure to check out those recaps before diving into today! Day Three is all about being well with food and finances. We started Day Three with an interview with Shana Spence, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist based in New York who labels herself as an “eat anything” dietitian. She wanted to create a platform for open discussion on nutrition and the myriad wellness topics circulating around these days. In the not so long ago past she worked in the fashion industry and hated it. She decided to go back to school, and became involved in food policy and public health. Since then she has focused her attention on helping others rebuild their relationships with themselves and food.
- [IWS21 Day 2: Be Well Outdoors and In Your Home](https://in-dependent.org/iws21-day-2-be-well-outdoors-and-in-your-home/) - The InDependent Wellness Summit is our annual, online event for all military and first responder spouses- past, present, and future. Learn more about the program here. Whether you listened to the full interviews or are catching up with these recaps, Day Two of the InDependent Wellness Summit was another inspiring and thought-provoking day surrounding the restorative benefits of the outdoors and your own home —two topics that really go hand-in-hand.
- [IWS21 Day 1: Be Well in Assertiveness and Technology](https://in-dependent.org/iws21-day-1-be-well-in-assertiveness-and-technology/) - Day 1 of the 2021 InDependent Wellness Summit presented by the USO recaps has arrived and, as expected, the entire week-long virtual event was filled with amazing speakers and inspiring content, as well as a community of military and first responder spouses focusing on how to Be Well.
- [#IWS20 Day 1 | Grit + Rest](https://in-dependent.org/iws20-day-1-grit-rest/) - The Fifth Annual InDependent Wellness Summit presented by the USO is BACK! The InDependent Wellness Summit is our annual, online event for all military and first responder spouses - past, present, and future. Learn more about the program here. And as usual, the incredible InDependent team led it off last week with a bang. Day
- [Four Ways to Stay Financially Well During a PCS](https://in-dependent.org/stay-financially-well-during-pcs/) - “When you protect your wellness by finding ways to do the things you love, while also protecting your finances, you can use the PCS season to rest, reset, and arrive at the new duty station ready to re-engage with the mission." - Heather Campbell Relocation. Financial hardship. Food insecurity. Unemployment. Life through a permanent change
- [One Tool to Help Heal from Trauma: The Power of Expressive Writing](https://in-dependent.org/the-power-of-expressive-writing/) - The thoughts we think to ourselves and the words we write down hold just as much weight as the words we speak out loud. One of the ways writing can help is in coping with trauma. Trauma comes in all different forms, shapes, and sizes, and can affect our lives in different ways. How you
- [Helpful Strategies to Improve Rest for Military Spouses and Families](https://in-dependent.org/strategies-to-improve-rest-for-families/) - America has a sleeping problem—and for many of our service members and family members, this problem can be even more pronounced. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a third of U.S. adults report they usually get less than the recommended amount of sleep, which is seven to nine hours for adults aged
- [Maintaining YOU in a World of Change](https://in-dependent.org/maintaining-you/) - When you look in the mirror and you barely recognize the person staring back at you, it’s time to find your true self again. Have you ever lost sight of who you are and needed to find your true self again? I know I have, and so have many other military spouses I know. We
- [Do You Feel Unmotivated? Find Tips and Words of Encouragement to Help Get Motivated](https://in-dependent.org/do-you-feel-unmotivated-find-tips-and-words-of-encouragement-to-help-get-motivated/) - Michelle Ann shares three tips to stay motivated in your life, no matter what the military sends your way.
- [Which is a More Powerful Motivator? Internal Satisfaction or External Reward?](https://in-dependent.org/which-is-a-more-powerful-motivator-internal-satisfaction-or-external-reward/) - In this article in the motivation series, Toby Ralph breaks down extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, which one is more powerful and why, and about using inspiration as a tool for motivation
- [How to Conquer Four Challenges in Military Life That Sap Your Motivation](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-conquer-four-challenges-in-military-life-that-sap-your-motivation/) - Burnout, lack of control, and decision fatigue. Sound familiar? Military spouse Elizabeth Bosse has experienced it, too. By focusing on your values and knowing what you'll say yes and no to, you can learn to go "with your gut and trust your instincts." Read on for more tips on how to find your motivation again!
- [How to Cope With Five Common Financial Struggles Affecting Military Families](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-face-five-common-financial-struggles-affecting-military-families/) - Jarah, a fiduciary financial advisor, talks candidly about five financial issues that affect military service members and their families. If you're looking for ways to cope with areas of financial stress that affect most of the military population, read on for tips and start planning for these things in your life.
- [How to Find Your Way as a Male Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/find-your-way-as-a-male-military-spouse/) - “As I stood alone at the spouses’ club event, I felt confident on the outside, but at the same time I couldn’t help but feel inconsequential, isolated, and invisible. I was feeling the same emotions nearly every one of the 55,000 men married to military service members has felt at some point. I was not
- [New Ways to Look at Your Space](https://in-dependent.org/new-ways-to-look-at-your-space/) - Home decor has never been my strong suit. I have always admired homes in design magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram, and I try to take inspiration from these when I am purchasing something for my home. But when I look around, my house looks nothing like those homes. My house is lived-in and a little mismatched.
- [How to Find Happiness in Your Home](https://in-dependent.org/find-happiness-in-your-home/) - We are currently stationed in Manila in the Philippines for the second time and all of our stuff, except for five thousand pounds, is in storage. The first time we were here for only a year and we traveled much of the time. I didn’t find happiness in my home during that year. This time,
- [Focus on Love, Not Fear: How to Make Your Boundaries Stick](https://in-dependent.org/make-your-boundaries-stick/) - Girl, you have got to set some better boundaries!” I heard the woman behind me tell her friend “I know, I know,” her friend said in agreement. “It’s just so hard sometimes.” “Boundaries” is one of those buzzwords. It seems to be the perfect answer for any issue. Struggling with your sister-in-law when she comes
- [4 Simple Ways Military Couples Can Navigate Life as a Strong Team](https://in-dependent.org/4-ways-navigate-life-as-strong-team/) - Four profound yet doable relationship strategies emerged from my interview with Corie Weathers, licensed counselor, during the week leading up to Military Marriage Day. THERE’S MARRIAGE AND THEN THERE’S THE BUSINESS OF MARRIAGE When it comes to married life, it is best we remember to differentiate the two. Imagine how frustrated a partner can feel
- [How To Connect As Individuals Not Just As Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-connect-as-individuals/) - Free conversation starter printable at the end of the blog. A question I have been asked time and time again as I interact with other spouses at events, gatherings, and even online is “What does your spouse do?.” Sometimes this question comes before even being asked what I do. Identity as a military spouse is
- [How to Find Your Military Community No Matter Where You Are](https://in-dependent.org/find-your-military-community/) - Military community is an important part of the military life you live. Being part of a military community helps connect you with other military families, get support from families living in similar circumstances, and learn from each other. But what happens if a military spouse doesn’t live on a base, or even near a base?
- [What to Pack and How to Pack it for Your OCONUS Move](https://in-dependent.org/pack-for-your-oconus-move/) - When your service member walks in the door, orders in hand, does your chest tighten? Does your mind start swirling with thoughts of all the things you will need to do? Any PCS can produce a stress response, but an OCONUS move can add even more with the uncertainties of what your housing will be
- [Heading Outside a Little Each Day Helped Me Become Me](https://in-dependent.org/heading-outside-a-little-each-day/) - You would’ve thought when we made the decision to transition from Active Duty to National Guard and move sight-unseen to Alaska I was already someone who wanted to spend every minute in nature. But that was so completely not the case. What I had, instead, was an idea of how going outside could help other
- [Military Wild Brings the Military Life and the Outdoors Together in the Best Way](https://in-dependent.org/military-wild-brings-military-life-and-outdoors-together/) - As military members, spouses, and veterans, you’ve all known the feelings of loneliness and the uncertainty that comes with moving to a new duty station. How do you make this new place a home after just getting comfortable in your old one? How do you start building a new community, finding new favorite places, and
- [Choosing the Best Hiking Trail for You and What Gear You Need](https://in-dependent.org/choosing-the-best-hiking-trail/) - There are THOUSANDS of hiking trails in the United States alone. Which is remarkable and an incredible way to get outside. However, with THAT many options, it can feel overwhelming, especially if you are new(er) to hiking. How far should I go? Is the trail hard? Where do I park? How do I get there?
- [The Myriad Health Benefits of Sleeping Outside and How to Try it Today](https://in-dependent.org/health-benefits-of-sleeping-outside/) - I’m convinced there are two types of sleepers in the world. Those who can wake up with one alarm and no snooze button, and those who need multiple alarms to wake up, and still struggle. I have always firmly fallen into the latter category. Recently I had the opportunity to spend some time camping in
- [Why You Should Embrace the SMART Tips for Calming Anxiety and Improving Sleep](https://in-dependent.org/smart-tips-for-calming-anxiety-and-improving-sleep/) - What came first: the anxiety or the difficulty sleeping? If you’ve been suffering with nighttime anxiety and interrupted sleep, it can be difficult to tell which started first. What is known is that anxiety is one of the most common reasons for sleep disturbances, and that sleep and anxiety have mutual causality (which means they
- [Want Better Sleep? 5 Bedroom Hacks You Have to Try](https://in-dependent.org/5-bedroom-hacks-you-have-to-try/) - Self-care. It’s one of those concepts, like balance, that have become cringeworthy to men and women in the midst of their hectic lives. It’s apparently the thing that will save you from your overwhelm and burnout, according to the latest magazine articles and Instagram posts. But it only tends to result in a “must be
- [How I Asked for Help to Support My Season of Choosing to Sacrifice Sleep](https://in-dependent.org/my-season-of-sleep/) - I am tired. I am tired ALL THE TIME. Not the kind of tired that a Diet Coke would cure, but the kind of tired that does not even seem to go away. You may think it is because I have four kids under the age of eight. And you’re not really wrong. They do
- [Two Things Are True: Helping Children Know A Paradox Of Feelings Is Okay](https://in-dependent.org/two-things-are-true/) - We were preparing for my daughter’s first day of Kindergarten at her new school. She was five years old and we had recently moved across the world to a new country. Our first few months had been spent acclimating ourselves to a different culture, public transit, and a new normal. The next big transition was
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Elizabeth Bosse | Our Fertility Journey](https://in-dependent.org/our-fertility-journey/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of InDependent’s Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources to people struggling with something similar, and to help the community know how to better help others who are going through difficult wellness issues.
- [Is Your Mental Load Heavy? Try These Techniques For Shifting Your Mindset](https://in-dependent.org/mindset-shifts/) - I grew up as an only child on a farm in Northwest Ohio, lost my mom when I was eleven, and I didn’t really start dating until my late twenties. Then I married my military husband in my early thirties. Suffice it to say, I’ve felt alone for quite a bit of my life. A
- [Why You Should Embrace Mindful Movement During Your PCS](https://in-dependent.org/mindful-movement-during-your-pcs/) - PCSing can be so hard and so stressful. So many things get added to your to-do list that finding time to exercise is challenging at best. Add into that staying well emotionally and mentally and it can feel like a big basket of overwhelm. We are currently in the unpacking stage of our ninth move,
- [Helpful Tips for What You Should Pack in Your PCS Kitchen](https://in-dependent.org/helpful-tips-for-what-you-should-pack-in-your-pcs-kitchen/) - PCS season is upon us. Some may be sticking around in their current space for the time being, but if you are finding yourself prepping for an upcoming move, you may be overwhelmed and not sure where to get started. This can cause stress, but we have some tips to help reduce stress at least
- [Secrets To Growing Your Own Food, Even If You Constantly Move](https://in-dependent.org/secrets-to-growing-your-own-food-even-if-you-constantly-move/) - As military spouses, eating healthy on a budget can be a challenge depending on your location and access to local produce. Farmers' markets, farm co-ops, and even conventional grocery stores can be expensive. Spouses across the world are getting their hands dirty and growing their own food instead. Read along for ideas and inspiration to
- [How to Eat and Clean Well on a Budget](https://in-dependent.org/eatcleanbudget/) - Originally published Aug 2013 On December 12, 2012 (yes, that’s 12-12-12), my life changed… forever. My husband, Scott, and I welcomed our first child into the world. I had gone from working full time as a Family Readiness Support Assistant to a stay-at-home mom (SAHM). Our annual income was cut in half. We had worked
- [Day 5 | IWS22 Recap: Physical Health and Community](https://in-dependent.org/day-5-iws2022-recap/) - All IWS22 InDependent Daily Recaps are created via partnership with the staff and writers for It’s A Military Life. It's a Military Life is a milso and vet networking community, dedicated to serving military families and those who serve our country past and present. Founder, Christina Etchberger, is an Army spouse on a mission to
- [Day 4 | IWS22 Recap: Feedback and Self-Expression](https://in-dependent.org/day-4-iws2022-recap/) - All IWS22 InDependent Daily Recaps are created via partnership with the staff and writers for It’s A Military Life. It's a Military Life is a milso and vet networking community, dedicated to serving military families and those who serve our country past and present. Founder, Christina Etchberger, is an Army spouse on a mission to
- [Day 3 | IWS22 Recap: Nature & Joyful Tidying](https://in-dependent.org/day-3-iws2022-recap/) - All IWS22 InDependent Daily Recaps are created via partnership with the staff and writers for It’s A Military Life. It's a Military Life is a milso and vet networking community, dedicated to serving military families and those who serve our country past and present. Founder, Christina Etchberger, is an Army spouse on a mission to
- [Day 2 | IWS22 Recap: Conflict & Holistic Health](https://in-dependent.org/day-2-iws2022-recap/) - All IWS22 InDependent Daily Recaps are created via partnership with the staff and writers for It’s A Military Life. It's a Military Life is a milso and vet networking community, dedicated to serving military families and those who serve our country past and present. Founder, Christina Etchberger, is an Army spouse on a mission to
- [Day 1 | IWS22 Recap: Intuitive Self-Care and Past, Present & Future](https://in-dependent.org/day-1-iws2022-recap/) - All IWS22 InDependent Daily Recaps are created via partnership with the staff and writers for It’s A Military Life. It's a Military Life is a milso and vet networking community, dedicated to serving military families and those who serve our country past and present. Founder, Christina Etchberger, is an Army spouse on a mission to
- [How Christina Etchberger Built a Community Through Her Blog It's a Military Life](https://in-dependent.org/how-christina-etchberger-built-a-community-through-her-blog-its-a-military-life/) - Christina Etchberger, an Army spouse currently residing in South Korea, boy mom, entrepreneur, and freelance writer, was in the middle of her family's second deployment during the pandemic when she felt the need for some changes in her life. Her attitude was struggling with the deployment, caring for her family, and being far from her
- [4 Tips for Creating a Community that Loves What You Do](https://in-dependent.org/4-tips-for-creating-a-community/) - There are many days when I just want to quit being a business owner. Did I say that out loud? There’s no shame in admitting that—it’s probably the same thing you’ve thought a million times. Running a business is not for the faint of heart and I promise you, those of us who look like
- [You Have the Ability to Change the Story You Tell Yourself](https://in-dependent.org/change-the-story-you-tell-yourself/) - “Oh, the stories we tell ourselves.” Lynsey Eason, a wonderful health and wellness coach through Military OneSource, said these words during one of our sessions. Her words caught me off-guard and I asked her to say them again, to be able to write them down. “The stories we tell ourselves.” What a profound phrase. What
- [Learn How to Find Your Story Within Yourself and Share it With Others](https://in-dependent.org/find-your-story-within-yourself/) - As military spouses have to frequently join new communities, find new roles and new friends, InDependent is going to spend this January exploring the following questions: how do you find your “story” within yourself, and how do you share your story with others? During his 2021 Summit interview, Larry Rosen took Corie Weathers through an exercise
- [Feeling Seen: The Strength in Telling Our Stories](https://in-dependent.org/feeling-seen/) - I pushed my chair away from the desk and stood. Step by slow step, I walked out of the office and into our living room where my son sat doing his homework. “They want to publish my book.” It came out quietly, just above a whisper. I was dumbstruck—half in awe and half in shock
- [Why a "Suitcase Specialty" Opened My Heart to Joy While Living Abroad](https://in-dependent.org/why-a-suitcase-specialty-opened-my-heart-to-joy-while-living-abroad/) - Any time water bubbles over the side of the pot and touches the surface of the induction stove, the entire unit clicks off. This is one of many things I am learning as we adjust to our new duty station in Quito, Ecuador. I turn around from chopping vegetables on our one “welcome kit” rented
- [How to Find the Courage to Let Go of Wellness Rules](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-find-the-courage-to-let-go-of-wellness-rules/) - Did you ever watch the show, Whose Line is it Anyway? I’m probably showing my age here, but it was popular when I was in high school and college, and it was brilliant. Hilarious improv sketches with outrageous slapstick comedy and smart quips. I call back to this show because you might remember the host
- [How I Embrace Non-Traditional Gender Roles](https://in-dependent.org/how-i-embrace-non-traditional-gender-roles/) - Years ago, I had solid career progression. I was always the one who made the most money, the one who covered the majority of the bills. This all changed when I met my wife. When we first started dating and even for a little while after that nothing changed. I still worked the same job,
- [4 Ways You Can Let Go of Dieting Rules and Trust Yourself](https://in-dependent.org/4-ways-you-can-let-go-of-dieting-rules-and-trust-yourself/) - Seven years ago, I was ready to quit being a dietitian. I don’t mean quit my job as a dietitian, I mean the whole field altogether! I was so tired of dishing out arbitrary food rules, and tired of feeling like my clients were scared to tell me what they ate in a day for
- [Here Are 3 Reasons Why You Should Add Sex to Your Calendar](https://in-dependent.org/3-reasons-why-you-should-add-sex-to-your-calendar/) - “So, honey, can I get on your calendar later?” my husband requests while zipping up his flight suite as I search for a blouse to wear for my virtual meeting. I pause my search and respond, “Sure! What time do you think you’ll get out of your debrief?” Quickly picking up my phone, I scan
- [Yoga with Elizabeth Bosse](https://in-dependent.org/yoga-with-elizabeth-bosse/) - In this video, vinyasa yoga teacher Elizabeth Bosse shares a yoga practice focusing on creating space. This is a gentle practice encompassing deep breathing, flowing yoga poses, and plenty of stretching, with the goal of learning to own your own space. ABOUT ELIZABETHElizabeth Bosse is an Army spouse of nearly fifteen years. She
- [Yoga with Kathryn Taron](https://in-dependent.org/yoga-with-kathryn-taron/) - Kathryn Taron shares a fifteen-minute prenatal practice appropriate for all stages of pregnancy. This session focuses on belly breaths, the pelvic floor, flexibility, strength, and balance. Kat wants you to remember that, “You’re strong, you’re brave, and you can ask for help—honor yourself in that way.” ABOUT KATHRYNKathryn is a yoga instructor, Army spouse, and
- [Yoga with Sherry Kellogg](https://in-dependent.org/yoga-with-sherry-kellogg/) - Yoga instructor Sherry shares a solid, all-levels, sixty-minute class that invites you to really focus on controlling and regulating your breath. Sherry hopes that after you complete her practice you will, “Continue to check in with yourself, continue to check in with your needs and honor that. Honor yourself and it will honor you to
- [Yoga with Bridget Hall](https://in-dependent.org/yoga-with-bridget-hall/) - Bikram yoga teacher Bridget Hall shares a fifty-minute Bikram flow class. This is a challenging, full-integration of the body class, combining elements of Vinyasa flow and Bikram yoga ABOUT BRIDGETBridget Hall is a military spouse, mom of three, and yoga and running lover. She is a Bikram Yoga Teacher from Spring 2011 TT in Los
- [How to Achieve Healthy Screen Time](https://in-dependent.org/achieve-healthy-screen-time/) - As military spouses, social media is a way to connect with friends and family near and far. It might also be how you find out information about your new duty station and the events taking place nearby. As with anything in life, learning how to use social media in moderation can be important to both
- [Learn to Be Assertive About Your Wellness](https://in-dependent.org/learn-to-be-assertive/) - There is a lot about military life that is decided for you: from where you live, how often you move, the jobs your spouse has, and more. Many times it can feel like you have no control over anything. This can be quite upsetting and frustrating. But as a military spouse or significant other, there
- [IWS21 Day 5: Be Well Throughout Generations and in Your Personal Story](https://in-dependent.org/iws21-day-5-recap/) - The final day of the InDependent Wellness Summit recaps has finally arrived and, as expected, the online event ended with two great interviewees who had a lot of wisdom and inspiration to share. If you missed Day One, Day Two, Day Three, or Day Four, make sure to check out the recaps before diving into
- [IWS21 Day 4: Be Well in Intimacy and Through Stress](https://in-dependent.org/iws21-day-4-recap/) - We are almost done with the InDependent Wellness Summit recaps and Day Four was just as full of inspiration as the previous three days. If you missed Day One, Day Two, or Day Three, make sure to check out those recaps as well! Day Four was all about being well in intimacy and in times
- [How to Thrive During an Inverse Deployment](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-thrive-during-inverse-deployment/) - In March of 2020 my son Liam, then fifteen months old, and I left our home on the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii for Lima, Peru. Snaphope.org, a non-profit organization I founded in 2015, provides school supplies for underprivileged children living in remote locations around the world. Our most recent endeavor took us to the
- [Getting Back on Track After the Holidays](https://in-dependent.org/backontrack/) - So I didn’t eat as well as I was supposed to over the holidays. Even though I had planned on eating healthfully and continued to work out as much as I could, I still gained weight over the holidays.More importantly I felt terrible after consuming all those delicious treats that the holidays bring. I mean
- [How to Forgive and Extend Grace This Holiday Season](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-forgive/) - Come late November, it’s not uncommon to hear the phrase “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” at least once a day. But as a service member spouse miles away from friends, family, and all that feels familiar, this might not always ring true. HOLIDAY EXPECTATIONS AND RESENTMENTAs a young girl, holidays always felt
- [Time + Gratitude = Thank You Note](https://in-dependent.org/thankyounote/) - After attending holiday parties, receiving wonderful gifts, and staying with close friends or family, what do you do? Well, not until recently did I think that you needed to do anything really -- that is until I received a few thank you notes from friends who stayed at my house. Receiving a handwritten note is
- [Wellness Spotlight | Aj Smit | Creating Brave Spaces](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-aj-smit/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Aj's feature. Aj is a military spouse who decided to create her own transformational Red Tent evenings using her theatre degree, enthusiasm for storytelling, and love of bringing people together.
- [When to Say Yes, How to Say No](https://in-dependent.org/yes-and-no/) - Over the past eleven years as a military spouse, I have realized that more often than not military spouses are great at many things. We keep the home front going strong. We are the peacemakers to our children. We make the lunches, pack the cars, go to work, do the shopping. We tend to do
- [Surviving COVID Separation in 3 Easy Steps](https://in-dependent.org/surviving-covid-separation/) - It would be accurate to say that 2020 has been (and continues to be) an unforeseen, unprecedented, and grueling year for many of us. COVID-19 has morphed ordinary life into a readjustment odyssey without exceptions. Due to this rapidly-growing pandemic, my family and I have been geographically separated for the past seven months. While my Marine
- [How to Orchestrate a Healthy Pizza Night for Your Family](https://in-dependent.org/healthy-pizza-night/) - Military spouse pizza lovers rejoice! It is possible to make pizza night healthy for your family. Kimberly Bacso sat down with Heather Campbell to find out how. You can read our Q&A below, and/or watch their Facebook Live here. You are a registered dietitian who loves pizza night. Please introduce yourself and your food philosophy. As a mom
- [How to Fuel Your Body Well for Good Gut Health](https://in-dependent.org/good-gut-health/) - Military spouses have to do a lot of research just to figure out day-to-day life when we’re new to an area. Figuring out the nuances of nutrition can be just one more thing that gets pushed to the bottom of the priority list. In an ever-changing environment of wellness and disease prevention, it can be
- [Wellness Spotlight | Heather Campbell | Stress-Free Healthy Eating](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-heather-campbell/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Heather's feature. Heather is a registered dietitian, Air Force spouse, and busy mother of three. Her private practice, Glory Nutrition, focuses on helping overwhelmed women provide healthy family meals without
- [My Year of No New Clothes ](https://in-dependent.org/my-year-of-no-new-clothes/) - I made a pact with my bestie to not buy new clothing for one year. Looking through my closet, I have a wardrobe that spans many genres and seasons. I have aspirational clothes for the corporate job I will never have. The edgy designer clothes I don't feel comfortable wearing. The dresses I feel like
- [How Fitness Helped Me Embrace the Military Spouse Life](https://in-dependent.org/how-fitness-helped-me-embrace-military-spouse-life/) - I married my high school sweetheart in Washington, D.C. in May of 2014. I packed up all of my belongings and moved across the country to our first duty station. As I flew into El Paso, known as the Sun City, I took in the landscape of rugged mountains and vast desert. I remember getting
- [12 Important Ways Strong Military Spouses Care for Themselves](https://in-dependent.org/strong-military-spouses-care-for-themselves/) - There’s often a misconception in the military spouse space that strong spouses don’t need help, they have everything together, they have endless energy and capacity, they are there to hold others up, they don’t burn out or break down. I had the chance to sit down with serial entrepreneurs Moni Jefferson and Flossie Hall of
- [4 Reasons You Need a Strong Friend Group During a Deployment](https://in-dependent.org/strong-friend-group-during-deployment/) - There is a perception that military spouses are automatically placed in a supportive circles as soon as their ID cards are laminated. In some cases, especially for those living on an installation, this could be a reality. Military spouses have a way of finding each other, often through command functions and social events. What starts
- [Home Organization Checklist: Office](https://in-dependent.org/office/) - Before I was married, I had a meticulously organized office that mirrored my office at the accounting firm where I worked. I kept every receipt and tracked every penny spent. If something broke, I could find the receipt to make a return within minutes. Everything was contained in or around my desk area. But then there were two
- [The Healing Powers of Getting Vulnerable](https://in-dependent.org/the-healing-powers-of-getting-vulnerable/) - Every month should be women’s health month. Our health should always be prioritized and celebrated. As military spouses, that can be quite a difficult task. I will be the first to admit that it took me way too long to come around to this way of thinking. It took my own health crisis to understand its
- [Making Friends Takes a Lot of Energy. Is It Worth It?](https://in-dependent.org/makingfriendsworthit/) - Friends come and go in our military lives due to frequent moves. So is it really worth connecting when we know the goodbyeis inevitable? Guest blogger Shasta Nelson, author of Friendships Don’t Just Happen, explains why investing in new friendships is important to our overall wellbeing.I hear from a lot of people that they simply
- [Wellness Spotlight | Heather Goffrier | Overcoming Obstacles](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-heather-goffrier/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Heather's feature. Heather is a Navy wife and mom to three daughters. She is a blogger passionate about helping new moms go from run-down to refreshed. She’s created several free
- [How to Adopt the 5 Ps of Planning as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/5-ps-of-planning/) - One of my husband’s favorite go-to quotes is, “Prior proper planning prevents poor performance.” I sometimes hear that statement in my sleep, especially if I am stressed or behind on a deadline. But what exactly does it mean to have the “5 P mindset?” My husband is a retired thirty-year Marine, who has yet to
- [Wellness Spotlight | Samantha Peterson | Make Your Own Wellness Rules](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-samantha-peterson/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Samantha's feature. Samantha is the executive director of InDependent. She’s a travel schooling mom to three wild boys seeking local adventure surrounding each duty station, and inspiring other military families
- [6 Simple Ways to Make Your Morning Routine Better](https://in-dependent.org/make-your-morning-routine-better/) - What do you do when you first wake up? Are you the person who continually hits the snooze button? Do those early PT mornings make you cringe? Or maybe you check your phone and scroll through your social media. No shame in that military spouse game! Whatever your morning routine is, it matters.The routine you
- [How Running Can Help You Be More Confident](https://in-dependent.org/running-can-help-confidence/) - I could hear the cheers of the crowd, but I couldn’t actually see the finish line, because it was about a quarter of a mile uphill. Who does that? Who puts the finish line of a half-marathon uphill? In that moment, I definitely mumbled some colorful words to myself, but I kept pushing. I had
- [How to Embrace Solo Adventures as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/embrace-solo-adventures/) - For many, life as a military spouse means a lot of time alone. I often joke that between training exercises, courses, and deployments, it’s more normal for my husband and I to be separated than together. Fortunately, I’m introverted by nature and very comfortable with doing things alone—whether that’s going to see a movie or
- [The Health Benefits of Indoor Plants](https://in-dependent.org/the-health-benefits-of-indoor-plants/) - Have you ever considered the importance of nature on your well-being? What about the benefits of a single plant? Besides beautiful design elements in our homes and offices, have you ever thought about houseplants reducing your stress? For me, cultivating a houseplant haven is my go-to for designing spaces, but it’s also my favorite form
- [Share Your World with More Than a Picture](https://in-dependent.org/more-than-a-picture/) - In the age of social media, the ability to instantly share thoughts and photos with family and friends near and far is glorious. Sometimes we forget that not all of our experiences can be captured in a picture with a clever caption, or fit neatly into one-hundred word blocks. When I pick up my phone
- [Embrace the Comedy that is Military Life](https://in-dependent.org/comedy-that-is-military-life/) - It’s 7:19 a.m. and I am on the floor of a new apartment in a new city with a newly stubbed toe thanks to the discarded boots in the middle of the hallway. I’m surrounded by half-open moving boxes. One of which, for some reason only the PCS gods will ever understand, is full of
- [Wellness Spotlight | Mary-Catherine Stockman | Nutrition & Self-Love](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-mary-catherine-stockman/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Mary-Catherine's feature. Mary-Catherine is an Army spouse, registered dietitian, and she owns her own private practice. She is passionate about making nutrition easy, fun, and sustainable. In her free time,
- [How to Live Authentically as a Healthy Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/live-authentically/) - InDependent sat down with Maria McConville, Registered Dietitian and Army Chief of Staff spouse, to delve into diet culture, mental wellness, and her thoughts on living authentically as military spouses.The interview left our community feeling so inspired, individuals immediately began implementing the takeaways. Never judging an interview by its cover, our team found that this
- [6 Things to Know When ETSing from the Military](https://in-dependent.org/etstips/) - My husband’s decision to ETS from the Army after ten years of active duty service did not come lightly. He and I had discussed it at length, but it was ultimately his decision that I would support no matter what, as military spouses do so often. After consideration of career potential, our savings account, and his happiness,
- [How to Cope When Your PCS is Hard](https://in-dependent.org/cope-with-hard-pcs/) - I write this sitting at my desk in our on-base apartment, watching the annual migration of the military begin outside my window. Workers from the local moving companies lug armloads of packing materials up the stairwells and then, hours later, lug those same materials, now transformed into heavy boxes, back down and place them into
- [How to Embrace the Winds of Change](https://in-dependent.org/winds-of-change/) - Life is made up of seasons. Seasons of change, seasons of growth, seasons of want, and seasons of plenty. Some seasons you might be living on mountain tops while others find you living in the valley. However, seasons are an unspecified period of time. They can last a few months or a few years, but
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Bree Carroll | Racism + Strong Military Marriages](https://in-dependent.org/bree-carroll-racism-military-marriages/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [Videos: Take Class with 6 Military Spouse Yoga Teachers](https://in-dependent.org/military-spouse-yoga-teachers/) - Transitioning to different duty stations means that you often have to say goodbye to your favorite yoga teachers. But, one good thing to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic is that many yoga teachers are getting comfortable teaching online. It doesn’t quite replace the in person experience, but it means you might be able to
- [Transition is the Start of the Next Adventure](https://in-dependent.org/next-adventure/) - Leaving the military felt like walking to the edge of a cliff and jumping off. I didn’t feel prepared, I wasn’t ready, and I didn’t know what would happen when I jumped. But deep down I knew it was the right thing to do for my family. I had just become a mom and finished
- [Wellness Spotlight | Kelsey Testa | Focus on Mindset](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-kelsey-testa/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Kesley's feature. Kelsey is an Army Spouse and Mom of two. She is a NASM-CPT, PES, YES, an ACSM-CEP, and is passionate about changing the narrative in women’s health and
- [How To Make Growing Your Family Overseas Smoother](https://in-dependent.org/givingbirthoverseas/) - Having a baby is a miraculous season of life. It’s a strong cocktail of fierce love, overwhelming change, and surmountable challenge. Adding to your family when you’re halfway around the world and in a foreign hospital adds another layer of complexity, excitement, and obstacles. Our second son was born in Iwakuni, Japan this January. The
- [Wellness Spotlight | Caresse Noelani | Overcoming Disconnection in Marriage](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-caresse-noelani/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Caresse's feature. Caresse is a military spouse, momma of two and registered nurse. She embraces adventure and doing outdoor activities. As an ambivalent introvert she enjoys socializing but truly thrives
- [How to Make Your Way in the Military Community as a Civilian Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/military-community-as-a-civilian-spouse/) - Nearly a dozen years ago, my new husband and I traveled eight hundred miles for our first PCS assignment. We moved from Illinois to Maryland two weeks after we said our vows. Within two months of our arrival to the Ft. Meade area he was gone, and we spent about two hundred days of our
- [How to PCS Like a Pro from a Wellness Perspective](https://in-dependent.org/pcs-like-a-pro/) - It’s the life of a military spouse. Your spouse receives orders and you are tasked with everything from orchestrating movers to finding a new home. Suddenly, your health goes into the toilet. Not this time! Here are three ways to handle a PCS like a pro from a wellness perspective.EMBRACE “MORE THAN NOTHING FITNESS”The American College of
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Hope Bradley | Domestic Violence and PTSD](https://in-dependent.org/hope-bradley-domestic-violence-and-ptsd/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [Wellness Spotlight | Claudia DeMarini-Welihan | Look for Community](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-claudia-demarini-welihan/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Claudia's feature. Claudia is a mom, U.S. Navy veteran, and U.S.M.C. spouse. She is the founder of Snaphope.org, a Christian non-profit featuring the orphaned and the poor through the art
- [How to Embrace Yoga On and Off the Mat in 3 Easy Ways](https://in-dependent.org/yoga-on-and-off-mat/) - In our military community, we face many periods of stress and uncertainty. Learning to cope with the difficulties and stressors that come with our lifestyle is incredibly important. For many, embracing yoga might just be the answer. WHAT IS YOGA?Yoga is the union of breath and movement. Many people associate it with pretzel-like poses where people
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Justine Evirs | Alcoholism Part 4](https://in-dependent.org/justine-evirs-alcoholism-part4/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [Self-Care for the Military Spouse—Time to Focus on YOU!](https://in-dependent.org/self-care-for-military-spouse/) - Self-care outside of the military community is a hot topic and becoming more so every year. Discussing mental health is becoming less stigmatized, and the well-being of the average individual is becoming more prevalent. With the decrease of the overall stigma also comes the trend of self-care Sundays and the phrase “treat yo-self!”BUT WHAT ABOUT
- [Why You Need to Focus on Wellness as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/focus-on-wellness/) - As military spouses, we are viewed in a different light by many. Words like resilient and strong are often adjectives utilized to describe us, especially by the civilian public. They see the happy reunion videos and photos and cry right along with us. But they aren’t in our homes during the times we cry because
- [Wellness Spotlight | Ashleigh Magee | Small Habits Done Consistently](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-ashleigh-magee/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Ashleigh's feature. Ashleigh is an active duty Navy officer, military spouse, and health coach for military women. She has a passion for helping fellow military women lose weight without spending
- [Finding Adventure in a Time of Social Distancing](https://in-dependent.org/finding-adventure-in-social-distancing/) - For military families, daily life requires us to find strength in adventure. To me this means feeling emboldened, confident in your actions, and proud of yourself. Going on an adventure lends itself to those feelings. Just the very act of getting out of your comfort zone, whether it’s physically, mentally, or emotionally, is an adventure.
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Justine Evirs | Alcoholism Part 3](https://in-dependent.org/justine-evirs-alcoholism-part3/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [How to Deal with Cyberbullying in the Military Community](https://in-dependent.org/cyberbullying-in-military-community/) - What do you do if you are a victim of cyberbullying? In the military community, Facebook groups can be very useful. Many military spouses head to Facebook to find local groups before PCSing to learn about their new areas and ask questions. We seek virtual connections with people going through similar things in life, and
- [How to Check in With Your Mate Through Chess](https://in-dependent.org/chess-with-spouse/) - My husband Seth and I have entered a season in our marriage when we have more time to notice each other. The kids are a little older but still mostly dependent on us, and date night conversations still tend to slide back to the kids. At the end of the day, after the battle of
- [Wellness Spotlight | Meg Reichert | Finding Emotional Peace](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-meg-reichert/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Meg's feature. Meg is an Army spouse and mom to two boys. She started Sage and Thyme Wellness two years ago. Meg is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, NASM Certified
- [How to Find Strength in Adventure Through Geocaching](https://in-dependent.org/adventure-through-geocaching/) - We were introduced to geocaching shortly after we PCSed to Germany. For those who are unfamiliar, geocaching is a real-world treasure hunting game that uses a smartphone or a hand-held GPS to find a hidden container, called a geocache (gee-oh-cash). When you find the geocache you then sign the logbook and return the container to
- [Wellness Spotlight | Erin Divinski | Moms Who Do Life With You](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-erin-divinski/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Erin's feature. Erin is an Army spouse, mother of two, and Stroller Strong Moms Instructor. Erin loves running with friends, sweating with her family and SLAM fam, and trying new
- [How to Find Your Grit as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/find-your-grit/) - As a military spouse, the adventures can be endless. Military life is beautifully rich and filled with pride for your family’s commitment to serve the country—and it is a family affair. But it also holds seasons of deep loneliness, challenge, and continuous life stressors. Finding your resiliency, or grit, is a must. Here are some
- [Strength in Adventure: Finding Balance in the Water](https://in-dependent.org/balance-in-water/) - There are some jobs and duty stations that you just know are going to test your limits—either people have cautioned you with their experiences or through your own research you’ve uncovered pitfalls that have the potential to swallow you and your family whole. Yet, because you’re military, you accept the orders without debate and move
- [#IWS20 Day 5 | Self-Talk + Moderation](https://in-dependent.org/iws20-day-5-self-talk-moderation/) - The InDependent Wellness Summit is our annual, online event for all military and first responder spouses- past, present, and future. Learn more about the program here. The final day of the InDependent Wellness Summit recaps has finally arrived and, as expected, the online event ended with two great interviewees who had a lot of wisdom
- [#IWS20 Day 4 | Transition + Numbers](https://in-dependent.org/iws20-day-4-transition-friendship/) - The InDependent Wellness Summit is our annual, online event for all military and first responder spouses- past, present, and future. Learn more about the program here. We’re already nearing the end of the InDependent Wellness Summit recaps, but if you’re like me, you’re not ready for the inspirational insight to stop! Luckily we have one
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Justine Evirs | Alcoholism Part 2](https://in-dependent.org/justine-evirs-alcoholism-part2/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [#IWS20 Day 3 | Adventure + Intimacy](https://in-dependent.org/iws20-day-3-adventure-intimacy/) - The InDependent Wellness Summit is our annual, online event for all military and first responder spouses- past, present, and future. Learn more about the program here. We’re already halfway through the InDependent Wellness Summit recaps and there’s so much inspiration to be found in each and every interview. If you missed Day 1 or Day
- [How to Let Your Core Beliefs Drive Your Decisions](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-let-your-core-beliefs-drive-your-decisions/) - What is it that you truly believe? This is a question that ruminates in my mind, often when I’m faced with difficult or frustrating circumstances. Many times, we are telling ourselves stories. These stories tell us about how we are feeling and what is happening to us. It’s time for military spouses everywhere to challenge what
- [#IWS20 Day 2 | Productivity + Creativity](https://in-dependent.org/iws20-day-2-productivity-creativity/) - The InDependent Wellness Summit is our annual, online event for all military and first responder spouses- past, present, and future. Learn more about the program here. Whether you listened to the full interviews or are catching up with these recaps, Day 2 of the InDependent Wellness Summit was another inspiring and thought-provoking day surrounding the
- [How to Free Military Spouse Communities from Cyberbullying](https://in-dependent.org/military-spouse-cyberbullying/) - Have you ever had someone say something negative about you? The words you ingest and the words you put out into the world matter to your well-being and the well-being of military spouses in your physical and online communities. I have been on the receiving end of harsh words, and those words sting! In fact,
- [How Military Spouses Can Brace Against the Coronavirus](https://in-dependent.org/coronavirus/) - Concern about the coronavirus is increasing among military families stationed in South Korea, Europe, and Hawaii. As military families, we’re used to dealing with difficult and dangerous situations, and we know that it always feels better to do something rather than sitting by and worrying, so let’s prepare for the worst and hope for the
- [How to Harness Personal Commitment to Build Character](https://in-dependent.org/personal-commitment-builds-character/) - Being a part of the ever-changing military lifestyle, commitment to a personal journey may seem overwhelming, selfish, or impossible. We tend to fall into habits and patterns that we create for survival and ease of constant transition. Over time, those patterns can get us stuck in a rut, eventually becoming people we don’t recognize. How
- [How to Run When You Are Not a Runner](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-run/) - I have never been a runner. I have always been one of the people who jokingly say, “I only run when there is a sale.” I grew up dancing ballet from age six onward, progressing through the levels until I was dancing six days a week. Ballet was my life for as long as I
- [Wellness Spotlight | Wendi Iacobello | Fitness for New Moms](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-wendi-iacobello-2/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Wendi's feature. Wendi is an Army spouse, new mother, blogger, freelance writer, aqua cycle, and Stroller Fit group fitness instructor. Wendi is extremely passionate about helping others find their inner
- [How to Modify Your Workouts During Pregnancy](https://in-dependent.org/modify-pregnancy-workouts/) - There are so many proven benefits to exercising while pregnant including increasing energy, improving mood, and helping you sleep better. Exercise also helps reduce common symptoms that show up during pregnancy like constipation, backaches, bloating, and swelling and reduces the risk of health issues like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preterm labor. All of
- [How to Improve Your Well-Being with Regular Check-Ins](https://in-dependent.org/well-being-check-in/) - When was the last time you checked in with yourself? Can you remember a time when you disconnected from the outside world and truly tuned in? The demands placed on military spouses as well as the high expectations we impose on ourselves affects our sense of well-being. With so many distractions and a long list of to-dos, your
- [How to Eat Like a Dietitian in Five Easy Steps](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-eat-like-a-dietician/) - As a nutrition professional, the question that I get asked most often by military spouses is “What do you eat as a registered dietitian (RD)?” I think people hope for some secret sauce or some magical food from the depths of the Amazon rainforest and they are often disappointed, or even shocked, when my answer
- [How to Stop Overeating by Controlling Food Urges](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-stop-overeating-control-urges/) - Weight loss is an issue that affects many people, including many military spouses. Overeating can be a big part of the problem and this is often exacerbated by the emotional trials military spouses experience regularly. If overeating is the main cause of your weight gain, learning to control the emotional urges for food can be
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Justine Evirs | Alcoholism Part 1](https://in-dependent.org/justine-evirs-alcoholism-part1/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [How to Breathe When the News Leaves You Breathless](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-breathe-in-stressful-times/) - The news is unavoidable and seemingly thrust upon us non-stop these days between television, the internet, newspapers, even social media. Like most people, I want to be informed and know what is going on around the world and here at home, but with a spouse serving in the military, constant news about our troops serving
- [6 Proven and Comforting Chili Recipes People Love](https://in-dependent.org/chili-recipes/) - For National Bean Day, we put together a compilation of the favorite tried-and-true chili recipes that InDependent team members love. We even got a couple old family recipes passed down through the generations! You’ll find chili recipes to feed a small family and recipes to feed a crowd. There are vegetarian, chicken, and beef recipes.
- [How to Thrive During Deployment When You Have Children](https://in-dependent.org/deployment-survival-guide/) - When embarking on this deployment I realized I was entering new territory with my two small children. For prior military separations, they were too little to understand where daddy was and he wasn’t gone this long. In preparation, I started asking my friends a few months out for their best advice and I also read
- [Wellness Spotlight | Nikole Schmidt | Choose Health](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-nikole-schmidt/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Nikole's feature. Nikole is an Air Force spouse, mother of two, and the executive director of The Paradigm Switch. She passionately volunteers, advocates, and coaches in the military community to
- [Winter Solstice: The Perfect Time for Reflection and Release](https://in-dependent.org/winter-solstice/) - Winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, is the perfect time to reflect on the past year and release the things that no longer serve you. These rituals will help you move into the new year with positive energy. WHAT IS WINTER SOLSTICE?Winter solstice, also known as midwinter, Yule, or the longest night, occurs
- [Real Life Spouse Story | Crystal Niehoff | Pregnancy Loss](https://in-dependent.org/crystal-niehoff-pregnancy-loss/) - The Real Life Spouse Stories Series is part of our Wellness Unfiltered™ program. It’s a platform for military spouses to share their struggles with tougher wellness topics in a Facebook Live series. They’re sharing these stories to help with their healing, open up conversations so other military spouses know that they aren’t alone, provide resources
- [8 Important Ways Moms Can Surrender Unrealistic Expectations](https://in-dependent.org/unrealistic-expectations/) - Take your resolution list and give me grace. It’s about that time. Time to lose that weight, judge ourselves, and add even more to our overflowing to-do lists. Everyone does it, right? I mean who doesn’t want to be “better?” Not I friends, not I. This year I resolve to throw the mile-long unrealistic resolution
- [Wellness Spotlight | Emily McDermott | Simplify Your Life](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-emily-mcdermott/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Emily's feature. Emily is an Air Force wife and mom to two boys. In her blog, Simple by Emmy, Emily writes about her journey to a simpler and more intentional
- [Wellness Enthusiast Gift Guide 2019](https://in-dependent.org/gift-guide-2019/) - The holiday season is an excellent time to support the military spouse and veteran communities. A great way to do this is to shop for gifts from businesses owned my military spouses, veterans, or both. We asked military spouses and veterans for products they make that are great for wellness enthusiasts. Here are some wonderful
- [How to Rekindle Your Love of Snail Mail with SmileMail](https://in-dependent.org/smilemail/) - Military spouses crave connection. In a lifestyle full of constant changes, we hold on to the relationships that mean the most to us. Distance, however, can provide a unique challenge that technology has thankfully minimized. We have loads of apps to send pictures, video chat, leave comments, and “follow” someone. All of these technologies are
- [Wellness Spotlight | Rae Broderick | Seek Authenticity](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-rae-broderick/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses or their champions and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Rae's feature. Rae is founder and owner of Root. Yoga + Wellness. IF YOU ARE A HEALTH OR WELLNESS EXPERT, TELL US ABOUT IT AND HOW IT
- [Alcohol-Free Holidays: How to Be a Sober Guest and a Rockstar Host](https://in-dependent.org/alcohol-free-holidays/) - As the holidays approach, so do the parties and celebrations. While it’s a great time to connect with others, the focus on drinking can be challenging for some people. Personally, I can relate to the worry and judgement of not drinking at a function. I’m in recovery and have not had a drink in the last
- [The Ways Yoga Can Help You Find Your Why](https://in-dependent.org/ways-yoga-can-help-you/) - “Find your WHY, find your WAY.” - John C. Maxwell We are all trying to limit stress and anxiety, create a sense of balance, and define for ourselves what our purpose, or why is. Yoga can lead you to your why by helping you find your center. When you come to a place where it
- [Tricare Covers Women's Health PT: How to Know You Need It](https://in-dependent.org/women-health-physical-therapy/) - Did you know that Tricare covers women's health physical therapy? You might be wondering what exactly a women’s health physical therapist (PT) is? Why might you need to see one? How do you get the necessary referral? I am going to explain it all. I am a huge advocate for women's health and wish every woman
- [Wellness Spotlight | Andi Adams | Setting Healthy Boundaries](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-andi-adams/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Andi's feature. Andi is an Air Force wife, mom, and marketing lead at WISE. She loves learning, personal development, and photography. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS
- [Introducing Wellness Unfiltered: The Bold New Program by InDependent](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-unfiltered/) - We're passionate about military spouse wellness, and we recognized a need to specifically address some of the tougher topics that our community deals with. We often show brave faces out in our communities because we want to be strong, keeping what we perceive as weakness behind closed doors. We isolate ourselves in an effort to be
- [8 Ways to Be Healthy at Your Next Work Conference](https://in-dependent.org/work-conference/) - Work conferences are intense events that cram a lot of valuable information, networking, and socializing into a short amount of time. Being healthy isn’t necessarily high on the priority list. Attending the Military Influencer Conference in Washington D.C. was a wonderful opportunity for our remote team to see each other in person and we came
- [From Haunted to Hopeful: How to Make Work Healthy](https://in-dependent.org/make-work-healthy/) - “It doesn’t get easier, you just get stronger.” I’ve written and rewritten this story so many times, with undertones of various kinds. It strikes me as important that you know I am writing from a good place today—from hope. But it wasn’t always that way, so I’ll share that, too.MY JOURNEY THROUGH PAIN“I don’t trust
- [Office Yoga for When You Want to Destress Your Day](https://in-dependent.org/yoga-at-work/) - Thank you for taking a moment out of your workday to focus on your occupational wellness through the practice of office-friendly yoga and breathing. I believe that making time to destress, return to your intention at work, and remember why you choose to show up for yourself, your family, your employer, and your clients each day
- [Wellness Spotlight | Jaime Chapman | Making a Positive Impact](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-jaime-chapman/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Jaime's feature. Jaime is an Army spouse, veteran, and the Founder & CEO of Begin Within. She is a keynote speaker, an author, and loves teaching career workshops. Jaime enjoys
- [5 Ways to Harmonize Life When You Work Virtually](https://in-dependent.org/work-virtually/) - Every military spouse can recall a handful of stories about how military life complicated family plans. For some, those complications disrupt adding to their family and for others, keeping a great job. I’ve even had to leave a job or two myself due to a PCS. That’s why when I found a job I could
- [3 Things I (Re)Discovered at the Empowered Spouses Retreat](https://in-dependent.org/empowered-spouses-retreat/) - When I won the grand prize trip to the Empowered Spouses Retreat (ESR) earlier this year thanks to the InDependent Wellness Summit and the Chris Kyle Frog Foundation, I was not excited. In truth, I’m pretty sure Evie, InDependent’s executive director, was more excited that she pulled my name than I was. I was in
- [Weave Work and Travel Throughout Your Year for a Happy Life](https://in-dependent.org/micro-vacations/) - Hustle harder. The socially-accepted way of stating that we’re all working our tails off these days chasing the latest definition of perfection. We’re also told that self-care is a must. Travel, mankind’s trusted self-care go-to, needs an update. I’m here to introduce you to the micro-vacation—the lifestyle you didn’t even know you were missing out
- [Wellness Spotlight | Caroline Schafer | Courageously Grateful](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-caroline-schafer/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Caroline's feature. Caroline is an Army wife, mother, producer of Army Wife Talk Radio, and a Business Manager. She can be found reading, cooking, reading about cooking, and PERFORMING when
- [4 Ways to Overcome Hopelessness on the Home Front](https://in-dependent.org/overcoming-hopelessness-homefront/) - Hopelessness. A powerful, somewhat taboo word, that scares so many of us that it comes out in desperate whispers only to be met with hurried hushes—as though we are characters in a Harry Power novel and Voldemort’s name is being spoken out loud. While it may not be talked about enough, the truth is that
- [5 Simple Ways to Help Make Postpartum Stress Better](https://in-dependent.org/ways-to-help-postpartum-stress/) - I’ll never forget the day my husband asked me if I wanted to kill myself. Our baby was five months old and I was suffering from postpartum stress. My husband was gearing up for deployment and was gone frequently. I felt like I was drowning as I adjusted to my new life as a stay-at-home
- [3 Signs You Absolutely Need Self-Care in Your Life](https://in-dependent.org/you-need-self-care/) - Awareness is a word which is all too familiar to us as military spouses. We are aware of the last meal our children ate. We are aware of the family schedule for the next three weeks. Oh and we are definitely aware of the PCS process and how to complete a pre-deployment checklist. But there
- [1 Unexpected Technique to Conquer Fear and Anxiety](https://in-dependent.org/conquer-fear/) - If you had met me years ago, you would have thought I had it all together. Confidence, control, and happiness were the images I showed to others. However, the person that I pretended to be was in sharp contrast to who I actually was. I struggled from severe anxiety and fear. My true-life narrative couldn’t
- [What is Reiki and How Can It Make You Calmer?](https://in-dependent.org/what-is-reiki/) - WHAT IS REIKI?Reiki is a Japanese healing method involving a gentle transfer of “life force energy” from a practitioner to the client. Reiki promotes deep relaxation, wellness, clarity, focus, and personal and spiritual growth. Many people have heard this term before, as it becomes more and more mainstream in our culture, yet may still be
- [7 Powerful Ways to Love Through PTSD Pain](https://in-dependent.org/love-through-ptsd/) - As a veteran advocate and spouse, my husband’s PTSD has changed me for the good and the bad. I could talk about the bad, but I choose not to. Not today at least. I don't pretend like it doesn't exist, but I choose to protect my own mental health and show up in the way
- [Wellness Spotlight | Bernadette Soler | Create Positive Change](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-bernadette-soler/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Bernadette's feature. Bernadette is a military spouse, yoga teacher, certified personal trainer, Reiki master teacher, and owner of wellness lifestyle company and chic leggings line, Doll Yoga Wear, LLC. Having
- [Wellness Spotlight | Julie Benson | Write the Story of Your Body](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-julie-benson/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Julie's feature. Julie is a military spouse, mamma of two, quilter, nurse, andlover of sports. She is a Gulf Coast native, loves to cook for her family, and spend quality
- [Finding Your Why Through Changing Seasons](https://in-dependent.org/finding-your-why-through-changing-seasons/) - The Earth is dictated by seasons. Our lives are dictated by seasons too. As humans, and especially as military spouses, we experience seasons of fullness, loss, joy, and pain. Some seasons are filled with beauty and abundance, while others are marked by growth, failure, and change. As a military spouse, I love PCS season. I
- [Craft a Wellness Vision Statement Rooted in Why](https://in-dependent.org/craft-a-wellness-vision-statement-rooted-in-why-elaine-dusetzina/) - Close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths in and out. Settle into your space and imagine meeting yourself in the future. Let's say it's three years from now. Whom do you see? Do you see someone who is thriving? Beaming with light and energy? A woman who is in flow with her purpose? Or do you see someone
- [Wellness Spotlight | Claire Wood | Identity](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-claire-wood/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Claire's feature. CLaire is a wife, homeschooling mom, teacher, and organization junkie. SHe enjoys reading, early morning outdoor walks, trying out new recipes, and hosting friends and family in her
- [4 Important Steps to Help Cultivate Your Why | Bree Shields](https://in-dependent.org/4-important-steps-to-help-cultivate-your-why/) - Weight loss. Uninspiring and generic are the words that come to mind when I revisit that first “why” when starting my journey to better health. Losing weight was important, but I hadn't dug deeply enough to ask myself why losing weight held such high value. In pursuit of my why, I began to notice a
- [Finding Your Why as a Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/finding-your-why-as-a-military-spouse/) - Finding your identity is hard enough on its own. Add in the elements of the transitory military family lifestyle, and it's even more of a challenge. I am of the opinion that we, as human beings, are in a constant state of evolution. While this may mean that we are constantly adapting to change, which
- [Put Your Wellness Why Before Your What](https://in-dependent.org/put-your-wellness-why-before-your-what/) - Do you ever stop to consider the impact that your wellness choices have on your day-to-day life or are you generally so busy going through the motions as you hop from one task to another? Often, I find that exercise is something on my list to check off so I can move on to the
- [3 Reasons Why Meal Planning is Time Well Spent + 2 Recipes](https://in-dependent.org/3-reasons-why-meal-planning-is-time-well-spent-2-recipes/) - The hustle and bustle of everyday life can often leave us feeling drained. Between dropping off the kids, working, and attempting to remain sane, eating well often falls off the list. For me life is all about planning. If it is not written down, it is not going to happen. There I said it aloud. Meal/menu
- [Don't Ignore the Gift of Time | AUSA](https://in-dependent.org/dont-ignore-the-gift-of-time/) - Two-and-a-half years ago, after celebrating a beautiful Christmas day, I received a phone call from my niece in California. My sister had experienced a sudden heart attack and was gone. Say what? Getting the news of her passing really stopped me in my tracks, and after the initial shock and sadness came a great deal
- [Strategies for squeezing in workouts... even if you don't have childcare | GIXO](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-squeeze-in-a-workout/) - As if finding time for a workout isn’t challenging enough, you have kids. Kids who don’t care about your exercise schedule, but do care about being entertained. And supervised. Well, you care about that part. Childcare is not only expensive, it’s time consuming to set up—especially if your schedule changes from day to day. Word
- [Wellness Spotlight | Tatiana Mone | Spending with Purpose](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-tatiana-mone/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Tatiana's feature. Tatiana is a mother, certified health coach, and personal trainer. Her passion is helping busy women develop a plan that fits their goals and lifestyles. Tatiana is empowering
- [3 Ways to Make Your Days More Productive](https://in-dependent.org/3-ways-to-make-your-days-more-productive/) - Military spouses are superstars at multitasking, problem solving, and getting tons done. But, have you ever been so busy that you weren’t sure whether you were coming or going? Then when the dust finally settled, you hadn’t accomplished anything. That’s how I’ve been feeling lately. I was doing things that kept me busy, but I
- [Apps that help you get time back in your day | GIXO](https://in-dependent.org/apps-that-help-you-get-time-back-in-your-day/) - It seems like in spite of technology’s promise to make life simpler, we somehow find ourselves busier than ever these days. Of course our smartphones can serve as a rabbit hole, causing us to waste time. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes your phone can be your friend. Like in the case of these
- [5 Simple Mindfulness Hacks for Military Spouses](https://in-dependent.org/5-simple-mindfulness-hacks/) - Military spouses are pros at organizing and creating happy lives for the ones closest to us, but we don’t always spend time giving ourselves the same love and attention. Read on to discover five simple mindfulness hacks you can practice to make sure you’re placing yourself on your priority list. Simple steps equal big results.To
- [The Strength of a Tomato Bush](https://in-dependent.org/the-strength-of-a-tomato-bush/) - A MILITARY SPOUSE’S TAKE ON HOW GARDENING KEEPS HER GROUNDED I stood there in our tiny backyard with the Florida sun gently settling and the humidity thick and glistening on my skin. My ever-growing belly dripped with sweat. Tears welled up in my eyes as I took in the damage. Tropical storm Flo had not
- [Wellness Spotlight | Wendi Iacobello | Garden Tour](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-wendi-iacobello/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Wendi's feature. Wendi is a blogger, freelance writer, aqua cycle Instructor, virtual assistant, and an avid volunteer. She passionate about helping others find their inner strength by sharing her experiences,
- [Wellness Spotlight | Laura Vien | Indoor Plants](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-laura-turner/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Laura's feature. Laura is a creative, environmental consultant, plant novice, mother, and storyteller. If you can’t find Laura admiring her plants or styling beautiful spaces, she’s probably hiking with her
- [3 Ways You Can Begin Putting Yourself First](https://in-dependent.org/3-ways-you-can-begin-putting-yourself-first/) - Hey friend, I’ve got a secret. I haven’t always put myself first and it affected me in the worst way. For so long, self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and physical illness ruled my life. As a wife, mother, writer, and volunteer, my personal needs were the last things I thought of when checking off items on
- [How to Strengthen Your Core Muscles for Control of Your Body](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-strengthen-your-core-muscles-for-control-of-your-body/) - Becoming familiar with the system of core muscles and learning how to use them properly is important for all female military spouses, whether you’re on the journey of motherhood, you love to work out, or you need to safely move boxes around during a PCS. Your core system can help with the pushing phase of
- [Wellness Spotlight | Ashley Gammon | Women’s Health](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-ashley-gammon/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Ashley's feature. Ashley is a military spouse, mom to three girls, and a huge advocate for women's health. She empowers women with vital resources, education, and tools on pelvic floor
- [How to Establish and Execute Your Wellness Goals During PCS Season](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-establish-and-execute-your-wellness-goals-during-pcs-season/) - Ah, spring. Flowers blooming, birds chirping, sun shining. It’s the time of year to really soak in the beauty and changing of the seasons. And then, for some of us military family folk, there is PCS season. Spring sets the stage for not only the upcoming summer, but for military families around the globe. It’s
- [Wellness Spotlight | Heather Walsh | Go Outside Your Comfort Zone](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-heather-walsh1/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Heather's feature. Heather is a mom, Marine wife, Navy child, and blogger. She is one of three women who founded MilMomAdventures, sharing travel tips for military families. She is also
- [4 Women’s Health Concerns That Need Your Attention](https://in-dependent.org/4-womens-health-concerns-that-need-your-attention/) - Mothers and caretakers are busy people. Working, at home, volunteering, parenting -- it is a 24/7 job. In the phase of life with young children or in a season of intense caretaking, it is easy to let your own health and self-care go to the back burner. After working in medicine for over 10 years,
- [Fighting Postpartum Depression with Placenta Encapsulation](https://in-dependent.org/fighting-post-partum-depression-with-placenta-encapsulation/) - Motherhood didn’t start out the way I had planned. In my head, through a rosy, soft-focus lens, I imagined scenes of serenity and bliss. Sure, the late nights would be rough and the inevitable GI-related mishaps would be icky. But generally, it would be fine. Right?Cut to me, literally sobbing over my infant’s crib, pleading
- [Wellness Spotlight | Patty Barron | AUSA](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-patty-baron/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Patty's feature. Patty is director of family readiness at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?I met
- [3 Ways to Find Extra Support and Motivation for Your Fitness Goals](https://in-dependent.org/three-ways-to-find-extra-support-and-motivation-for-your-fitness-goals/) - Whether you haven’t found your workout groove after a PCS or two or you’ve recently trained for a marathon, the fact is, we can all use a bit of help working toward our latest and greatest fitness goals. Individual willpower and commitment are definitely the first step to making progress, but outer accountability is another
- [Wellness Spotlight | Lindsay Swoboda | Staying Fit on a Budget](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-lindsay-swoboda2/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Lindsay's feature. Lindsay is a military spouse, mom, and writer. She encourages mothers and military spouses through her blog. She’s lived and traveled all over the world but believes there
- [Berry Oat Breakfast Bars](https://in-dependent.org/berry-oat-breakfast-bars/) - Breakfast and snack time just got easier for military spouses thanks to these naturally-sweetened Berry Oat Breakfast Bars. They’re like overnight oats, but you don’t need a spoon. You can eat them on the way out the door, or slow down and make them a teatime treat. Plus, if you’re gearing up for a PCS,
- [5 Simple Ways to Work Out at Home Without Buying Expensive Equipment](https://in-dependent.org/five-simple-ways-to-work-out-at-home-without-buying-expensive-equipment/) - Exercise plays such a vital role in physical, mental, and emotional health, yet it’s something military spouses have a hard time prioritizing in their busy day-to-day lives. A common concern for many of us carefully managing the family budget, is cost. But the truth is, there are all kinds of way to master an effective
- [Wellness Spotlight | Diane Helmer | Healthy Snacks for Kids](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-diane-helmer/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Diane's feature. Diane is a Navy wife, mom of two, and an entrepreneur. Through the years as military spouse, she has tried everything from cooking to crafting to help fuel
- [Self-Care Starts in the Kitchen](https://in-dependent.org/self-care-starts-in-the-kitchen/) - Wake-up CallI went into a season of deployment a few years ago with the best of intentions. I knew I’d be busy with my three elementary-aged kids, but I was capable, confident, and strong. More than anything, I was determined to prove my worth as the hero at home. A couple of weeks into the deployment
- [Wellness Spotlight | Kara Ludlow | Setting Yourself Up For Success With Healthy Eating](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-kara-ludlow/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Kara's feature. Kara has been a Navy wife since 2001 and is mom to three energetic kids. She enjoys connecting with new military spouses as a mentor, thumbing through cookbooks,
- [Giving Yourself Grace on Your Wellness Journey](https://in-dependent.org/giving-yourself-grace-on-your-wellness-journey/) - At twenty-three-years-old, I entered the corporate world as a new, highly-motivated professional. I volunteered for overtime and extra training in an effort to stand out from my peers. My work ethic propelled me into leadership positions, special assignments, and recognition from management. My career was perfect. However, my previously athletic frame found itself in a
- [#MSWS19 Day 5 | Move to Live](https://in-dependent.org/msws19-day-5-move-with-purpose/) - *Sigh* Just like that, we’re at the end of the 2019 Military Spouse Wellness Summit.Another year, another set of fabulous speakers sharing their wisdom with military spouses. Just like previous years, this year’s summit did not disappoint. The opportunity to turn inward and focus my intention on five crucial aspects of my life was a
- [#MSWS19 Day 4 | Purpose Takes Patience](https://in-dependent.org/msws19-day-4-move-with-purpose/) - Per usual, the days of the Military Spouse Wellness Summit keep passing but the messages and lessons continue to inspire! Together we’ve learned from six inspiring people who shared their experience on how to grow with purpose, spend with purpose, and love with purpose. These three aspects of our lives pervade almost everything we do,
- [#MSWS19 Day 3 | Love Thyself in All Seasons](https://in-dependent.org/msws19-day-love-with-purpose/) - It’s hard to believe, but we are over half way through the fourth annual Military Spouse Wellness Summit! Already we’ve heard from four inspiring speakers on how to grow with purpose and spend with purpose. During day three of the summit, audience members had the chance to hear from two fantastic women who know a
- [#MSWS19 Day 2 | Let Your Values Guide Your Spending](https://in-dependent.org/msws19-day-2-spend-with-purpose/) - For Day 2 we returned to the Military Spouse Wellness Summit for an opportunity to hear from two inspiring speakers on how we can spend with purpose.The word “spend” often makes us think of our money. Certainly, there’s plenty of intentionality and purpose we can incorporate into our finances. But we have other things to
- [#MSWS19 Day 1 | Growth Means Keeping It Simple](https://in-dependent.org/msws19-day-1-grow-with-purpose/) - The Military Spouse Wellness Summit: Life With Purpose has finally arrived!Once again I’m sitting down in front of my computer for my own private wellness conference -- but this time I’m enjoying it from Japan! Before I dove into the interviews for Day 1, I went back and listened to last year’s interviews -- thanks
- [Wellness Spotlight | Danielle Tenconi | Fitting Fitness Into a Full Life](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-danielle-ten/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Danielle's feature. Danielle has been a military spouse for 15 years and a working mom to two young boys. She is a world traveler that is passionate about health, enjoys
- [Wellness Spotlight | Lizann Lightfoot | Seasoned Military Spouse Familiar with Deployments](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-lizann-lightfoot/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Lizann's feature. Lizann is a Marine wife, mom of 4 kids, and a professional writer. As a seasoned military spouse, she shares her resources, tips, and a sprinkle of humor
- [Wellness Spotlight | Janet Daly | Plugging in Through Fitness](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-janet-daly/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Janet's feature. Janet daly, army spouse and mother of two, shares how her love for fitness has changed over the years as she has become a Mom, but still finds
- [Why the Milspouse World Still Needs InDependent](https://in-dependent.org/why-the-milspouse-world-still-needs-independent/) - Last spring, with our fifth birthday approaching and with the looming decision to step out from underneath the shelter of our fiscal sponsor and become a stand-alone non-profit organization in front of us, we had to ask ourselves if the effort that we’re putting into InDependent is worth it. Does the milspouse world still need
- [4 Disturbing Statistics You Need to Know About Pelvic Floor Health](https://in-dependent.org/pelvic-floor-health/) - One of my most favorite things about being a military spouse is the instant connection I have made with some of the most amazing women I have ever met in my life. From speaking each other’s language with all the acronyms, to the lifelong friendships with people who come from a completely different world. From
- [Wellness Spotlight | Reda Hicks | Girlfriends Are My Sanity](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-reda-hicks/) - The Wellness Spotlight Series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Reda's feature. Reda Hicks, wife of a retired Army Special forces soldier, shares how she made a deployment endurable for herself and her young son, and how connections with friends
- [WordPress Resources at SiteGround](https://in-dependent.org/wordpress-resources-at-siteground/) - WordPress is an award-winning web software, used by millions of webmasters worldwide for building their website or blog. SiteGround is proud to host this particular WordPress installation and provide users with multiple resources to facilitate the management of their WP websites: Expert WordPress Hosting SiteGround provides superior WordPress hosting focused on speed, security and customer
- [Farmers Markets Help Your Military Hometown Feel More Like Home](https://in-dependent.org/farmers-markets-help-your-military-hometown-feel-more-like-home/) - I love farmers markets, and because it’s National Farmers Market Week, I want to share with you why they are the perfect places to eat and play local. A farmers market is one of the first things I look for when we move to a new location, and we almost always visit one when we
- [Wellness Spotlight: Megan Hall](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-megan-hall/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Megan's feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?I met my sailor at wedding. Our courtship was very short and in less than six months
- [Wellness Spotlight: Amy Williams](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-amy-williams/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Amy’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?I met my husband in first grade but we are by no means high school sweethearts. We
- [Hospitality Over Entertaining](https://in-dependent.org/hospitality-over-entertaining/) - If you get hospitality and entertaining confused, you may never want to regularly have people over because it’s just too hard. Here’s an easy way to differentiate the two: Hospitality is about sharing time together. Entertaining is about providing an experience.There are some times during the year when you want to put on a show
- [Wellness Spotlight: Meghan Meredith](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-meghan-meredith/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Meghan’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?I met my husband in Atlanta, GA 5 years ago this June. I had just graduated college
- [Wellness Spotlight: Rebecca Lynn](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-rebecca-lynn/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Rebecca’s feature. Rebecca is a First Responder Spouse who brings a new perspective to this series! TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A First responder SPOUSE?My husband
- [Wellness Spotlight: Amanda Huffman](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-amanda-huffman/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Amanda’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?I met my husband in college while we were both pursuing our dream of becoming officers in
- [Wellness Spotlight: Lindsay Swoboda](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-lindsay-swoboda/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Lindsay's feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?I boarded my first plane at age eighteen to see my now husband graduate from USMC boot
- [Wellness Spotlight: Brittany Davidson](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-brittany-davidson/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Brittany’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?Before I met my green beret, I didn’t know anything about the military. I just hadn’t been
- [Wellness Spotlight: Moni Jefferson](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-moni-jefferson/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Moni’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?Growing up as a military kid I feel like I have been living this amazing life forever! Although
- [Wellness Spotlight: Leslie Brians](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-leslie-brians/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Leslie’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?During my time at A&M, I met and fell in love with an Army officer and we
- [Wellness Spotlight: Ashley Matejka](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-ashley-matejka/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Ashley's feature. Tell us a little about your journey as a military spouse. Where did it begin?My journey as a military spouse began 7 moves - soon to be 8
- [Wellness Spotlight | Corie Weathers, LPC | Healthy Boundaries](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-corie-weathers/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real-world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Corie’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE.Thirteen years ago, my husband met a green beret at the gym, came home, and said he wanted
- [Wellness Spotlight | Dr. Patrice Carter | Setting Boundaries](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-patrice-carter/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook Live series. Below is an excerpt of Patrice’s feature: TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE.My journey as a military spouse began in 2009 when I married the love of my life,
- [Don’t Make Resolutions This Year](https://in-dependent.org/dont-make-resolutions-this-year/) - As the month of December winds down and the New Year begins, millions of people make New Year’s resolutions. The idea behind resolutions is a fresh start, a newly revived spirit, a new year in which to accomplish all the things on our lists. This year, I question whether setting lofty goals at the beginning
- [Wellness Spotlight: Jasmine Farnsworth](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-jasmine-farnsworth/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Jasmine’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE?My journey as a military spouse is an interesting one, because I was originally in the Army
- [Wellness Spotlight: Eleanor Duelley](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-eleanor-duelley/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Eleanor’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? I was an Surface Warfare Officer when I met my husband who is a Naval Aviator.
- [Wellness Spotlight: Samantha Levin](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-samantha-levin/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Samantha’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? When I got pregnant with my daughter I really let myself go and literally "ate for
- [How to Pre-Game Halloween with Real Food](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-pre-game-halloween-with-real-food/) - Tips for a Healthier HalloweenI don’t follow football, but I am a fan of fall, Halloween, and any excuse for some good, better-for-you, party food. However, when Halloween falls on a weekday, it can be especially tricky to get some nutritious foods into your family before you collect more than a month’s supply of dessert
- [Support for Military Spouses through Storytime](https://in-dependent.org/support-for-military-spouses-through-storytime/) - United Through Reading, a nonprofit organization, connects military families through stories read aloud on video.When we talk about military families and the challenges they face during deployments we often envision the 3-year-old boy who misses his mom and doesn’t understand why she is gone, or the service member who is missing out on special moments,
- [Wellness Spotlight: Pamela Chavez](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-pamela-chavez/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Pamela’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? My journey to becoming a military spouse began in 2004 at Fort Campbell, KY when I
- [Wellness Spotlight: Diana Jaquith](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-diana-jaquith/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Diana’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? I met my husband when I was 5 years old. Our dads are business partners, so
- [Wellness Spotlight: Amanda Koch](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-amanda-koch/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Amanda’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? I met my husband on a blind date after two years of our mothers conspiring to
- [Wellness Spotlight: Kristine Geraghty](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-kristine-geraghty/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Kristine’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? I’ve only been a military spouse for a little over 2 years but it feels like
- [Wellness Spotlight: Lauren Haggett](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-lauren-haggett/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Lauren’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? I’m a native Floridian and beach lover. I grew up in the panhandle on the gulf
- [Wellness Spotlight: Christin Daubert](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-christin-daubert/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Christin’s feature. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? My military journey started in 2010 when I met my husband in our hometown. We attended
- [Wellness Spotlight: Erin Pesut](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-erin-pesut/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Erin’s feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST? Soon after we got married, Gabriel left for Basic Training at Fort Benning. I was about halfway
- [Realistic Workout Goals: Balancing Work, Kids, & Fitness](https://in-dependent.org/realistic-workout-goals-balancing-work-kids-fitness/) - I had four kids within six years. The clothes in my closet range from size four to size fourteen. Over the years and in between pregnancies, I have gone through different stages of fitness goals. There were times I had to do the Couch-to-5K program just to be able to jog again. There was also
- [Wellness Spotlight: Alexis Miller](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-alexis-miller/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Alexis’s feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST? Definitely during my job search when we PCS’ed to North Carolina. Nothing will destroy your self confidence quite
- [Get Your Sunless Glow On](https://in-dependent.org/get-your-glow-on/) - The summer months are approaching, and shorts and dresses are being pulled out from the back of the closest. As a spray tan artist, I begin to get busier and busier. I welcome the busyness with open arms and get to know my clients with each and every session. Over the course of the last
- [Wellness Spotlight: Abi Ray, LMFTA](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-abi-ray/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Abi’s feature. TELL US ABOUT YOUR WELLNESS JOURNEY AS A MILITARY SPOUSE. WHERE DID IT BEGIN?My journey with the military began in 2009 when my husband and I reconnected over
- [Wellness Spotlight: Nicole Leth](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-nicole-leth/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Nicole’s feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST?The lowest points for me as a military spouse have come when my marriage has suffered. We learn
- [Wellness Spotlight: Hannah Campbell](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-hannah-campbell/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Hannah’s feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST?My lowest moment would have to be during our last deployment. I’ve written about this before in my
- [Wellness Spotlight | Lauren Rothlisberger | Finding Balance](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-lauren-rothlisberger/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real-world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Lauren's feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST?Life as a military spouse is certainly a roller coaster. I wouldn’t say I have a lowest moment, but I
- [The Ultimate Bacon Detox](https://in-dependent.org/one-day-bacon-detox/) - Are you considering a cleanse after a weekend of over-eating? Doing a one-day detox after an extended period of indulging in fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins could be exactly what your body needs to get back on track. A good indication that your body is begging for you to hit the reset button
- [Wellness Spotlight: Erica McMannes](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-erica-mcmannes/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Erica's feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST?Three years ago if you had asked me about me “wellness story,” I would have looked confused, embarrassed, and
- [Wellness Spotlight: Susan Reynolds](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-susan-reynolds/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Susan's feature. WHAT WAS YOUR LOWEST MOMENT, WHEN YOUR HEALTH SUFFERED THE MOST?I am in my lowest moment right now. Just last week I received the news that my cervical biopsy
- [Wellness Spotlight: Michele Bradfield](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-spotlight-michele-bradfield/) - The Wellness Spotlight series highlights military spouses and their real world health and wellness journeys in a Facebook live series. Below is an excerpt of Michele's feature. What was your lowest moment, when your health suffered the most?I hit my low when my husband was working at AFRICOM in Italy. We had just PCSd to Kansas
- [Five Brands to Step Up Your Natural Makeup Game](https://in-dependent.org/five-brands-natural-makeup/) - http://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5866941837c581270a0dc327/1486927642394-37VH8WJ4XL6UJDBW7WEN/image-asset.png/img.png It seems to me that there are a plethora of natural skin and hair care brands on the market, both high-end and at the drugstore. Every time I shop or read posts from my favorite beauty bloggers, there’s some new all natural, organic skin care product to try. But what about makeup? Years of
- [Introducing the 2nd Annual Military Spouse Wellness Summit: Happily Ever After](https://in-dependent.org/msws16-happily-ever-after/) - I wasn’t there on my wedding day. Neither was my husband. We were several states and one continent away when Bob and Peggy proclaimed “I Do!” on our behalf. A few days later we received notice of our double-proxy nuptials by mail. I distinctly remember standing alone in my Idaho apartment looking at our beautiful
- [Five Healthy Habits for Back-to-School Season](https://in-dependent.org/five-healthy-habits-back-to-school/) - Fall is almost upon us. I know it doesn’t feel that way, with the sweltering heat and all, but it really is. And for many people, that means it’s back-to-school season. I have always loved this time of year. As a confirmed nerd, I was usually pretty excited to head back to school. There was
- [Sacred Spaces: How to Close the Gaps in Your Military Marriage](https://in-dependent.org/milsposelfcare-sacred-spaces/) - “I’m afraid I’ll be different when I get home,” my husband said over the phone from Afghanistan. I fell silent as my heart broke and a lump formed in my throat. What had he experienced to inspire these words?At the time I didn’t know. I still don’t fully know. But my husband was right —
- [InDependent Run A Race Challenge](https://in-dependent.org/id-run-a-race/) - Lace up your shoes — it’s time to get your sweat on!This summer, InDependent is challenging military spouses stationed all over the world to run a race this September. That’s #IDRunARace for all of you social media savvy folks. [connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter]Part of the InDependent mission is to encourage movement.
- [How to Build a Transitional Wardrobe for a Changing Body](https://in-dependent.org/build-a-transitional-wardrobe-changing-body/) - Bodies are great. They do so many amazing things! Mine is really good at finding snacks and eating them, for example. It’s also great at picking up my daughter, putting on lipstick, and walking aimlessly in search of adventure. We all do so many different and fantastic things with our bodies, so it’s no wonder
- [MilSpouse Summer Reading List](https://in-dependent.org/milspo-summer-reading-list/) - Reading is my absolute favorite thing. I have a book, magazine, or my e-reader with me wherever I go. I love to read new books, I love books I’ve already read, I love to read to my kid, I love to talk about books, and to hear about what everyone else is reading. I have
- [Personal Strength: A Whole-Self Approach | The MilSpo's Guide to Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/milsposelfcare-personal-strength/) - I am sure I’m not shouting any amazing breaking news when I say being a military spouse is hard. We all know this. Because we are all doing it.But what does it mean to be a healthy military spouse?Ah! Now there is a statement we all either cringe from or move toward, it seems. And
- [Four Steps to Find YOUR Mission](https://in-dependent.org/four-steps-to-find-your-mission/) - When my husband and I met, we both lived in California. At the time, I had just finished an enlistment with the U.S. Navy and had returned to the civilian workforce. Life began to change rapidly after we started dating. Soon came our engagement and a deployment for him. Upon his homecoming, we had our
- [19 Health-Promoting Care Package Ideas](https://in-dependent.org/19-health-promoting-care-packageideas/) - One of the first things I do after my husband deploys (besides wallow in self-pity for a little while of course) is start planning out my first care package. Curating all the different things I will send to him helps me feel a little closer to him even when he’s thousands of miles away. And,
- [Sun Protection Demystified](https://in-dependent.org/sun-protection-demystified/) - Sun protection is a topic near and dear to my heart. My skin tone falls somewhere between “Twilight vampire” and “ghost haunting an abandoned subway station,” so if I don’t wear sunscreen I get a farmer’s tan while walking from my front door to my mailbox. Any prolonged sun exposure results in a burn unless
- [Finding your Purpose: A Strength-Based Approach | The MilSpo's Guide to Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/self-care-finding-your-purpose/) - with Katie Christy | Activate Your TalentAs military spouses, we often have a hard time figuring out exactly what we do best, especially as we’re asked to constantly volunteer for various military-related events, causes, and functions year-round. But being able to find your strengths are important. Why wouldn't you want to be doing something that
- [Finding your Purpose: A Strength-Based Approach](https://in-dependent.org/milsposelfcare-finding-purpose/) - Hi, my name is Katie Christy and I’m a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach. I get serious energy from helping people and organizations discover and utilize their strengths. As military spouses, we often have a hard time figuring out exactly what we do best, especially as we’re asked to constantly volunteer for various military-related events, causes, and
- [Why: Tara's Story](https://in-dependent.org/why-taras-story/) - As a young girl growing up, it never crossed my mind to think about what I ate or what I put on my skin. I was an active child who was always outside or playing the sport that was in season. I never worried about my weight or health. Twenty years later, I found myself
- [10 Things I Learned from an Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis](https://in-dependent.org/10-things-i-learned-from-ovarian-cancer-diagnosis/) - Ovarian cancer is referred to as a silent killer. Often, women with this particular kind of cancer don’t know they have it until they start having significant symptoms. I know this firsthand, because I was diagnosed last month with Stage Four Ovarian Cancer. I had very few symptoms of cancer, and the symptoms I did
- [When a Homecoming is Far from Perfect](https://in-dependent.org/homecoming-far-from-perfect/) - So we made it! Through our latest deployment, that is. My husband very recently returned from nine months away. He missed birthdays, holidays, and approximately half our toddler’s life. There was a lot of stress and loneliness, but now he’s back!I’d love to say that everything has been perfect, but of course it hasn’t. If
- [Food + Feelings: The Relationship Between Eating and Emotions | The MilSpo's Guide to Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/self-care-food-feelings/) - with Abi Ray, M.S., MFT | AbiRay.orgStepping on the scale almost twice daily, it was hard for me to comprehend that dropping 5 to 10 pounds so easily meant it would be just as easy, if not easier, to gain it back. That is, until I began to understand the relationship between food and feelings. [Click
- [Food + Feelings: The Relationship Between Eating and Emotions | The MilSpo's Guide to Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/milsposelfcare-food-feelings/) - We all know that person. The one obsessively counting calories to look good for their spouse’s return home. Or, the one binge eating pizza pockets out of convenience and loneliness. Confession — I’ve been there. Maybe you have too.So what is the deal with food and emotions, anyway?Let me start by telling you a little
- [Tea as Part of Your Wellness Routine: An Introduction](https://in-dependent.org/tea-as-part-of-wellness-routine-introduction/) - Next to water, tea is the most consumed beverage on the planet... and for good reasons! Besides the fact that tea is DELICIOUS, experts and enthusiasts have been spouting the health benefits of tea for a very long time. And let me be clear...I'm not talking about that sugary, iced drink that my family in
- [Wellness Through my Daughter's Eyes](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-through-my-daughters-eyes/) - Here at InDependent, we talk a lot about wellness and self-care. Those things can mean a lot of different things to different people. Fitness and exercise, nutrition and healthy eating, and focusing on mental health all come to mind. Prioritizing your own well-being takes a lot of forms, especially in a group as diverse as
- [InDependent But Not Alone: A New Program for Ft. Riley Military Spouses
](https://in-dependent.org/independent-but-not-alone-program-announcement/) - “Today was a f***ing terrible day,” said my friend.Despite what was visible on her Facebook page, reality was filled with tears and tantrums from three little boys. Each one of them pushing her closer to the edge and testing her patience as a solo parent.She was enduring her fifth deployment in 10 years.“I’m so over
- [Three Tips to Be an InDependent Traveler While Stationed Abroad](https://in-dependent.org/three-tips-independent-traveler-stationed-abroad/) - You just got orders for your next duty station: Europe.You are most likely in one of two camps. You can't wait to pack your bags, see the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and drink a Guinness in Dublin.You are wondering how you are going to fare so far from the comfort and conveniences of home, family,
- [How to Connect with Mom Friends to Avoid Cabin Fever](https://in-dependent.org/mom-friends-cabin-fever/) - So it’s here. Winter. Well, obviously it’s been around for a while, but the holidays are long gone and now we’ve reached the seemingly endless, Game of Thrones-style frozen portion of the season. I enjoy winter a lot. I like cold weather, I have a winter birthday, I look great in scarves, and I’m always
- [The Art of Advocating for Yourself | The MilSpo's Guide to Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/milsposelfcare-the-art-of-advocating/) - “Sometimes the hardest part of the journey is believing you are worthy of the trip." -Maya AngelouDo you ever feel anxious because you are being pulled in many directions, but none of these directions take you to where you would like to go?At the end of a busy day, do you feel like you’ve accomplished
- [Unwind with These 15 Stress-Busting Stretches](https://in-dependent.org/unwind-15-stress-busting-stretches/) - Overwhelmed by your latest PCS? Life is demanding for us all… and, arguably, it’s even more difficult when you factor in the on-the-go, on-demand requirements of a military family making a PCS change. But you don’t have to let it stress you out. Instead, try banishing any negative vibes with a few strategic stretches that
- [Rethink Your Resolutions](https://in-dependent.org/rethink-your-resolutions/) - For most of us, the end of the year is a time to take stock and think about what we want in the future, which brings us to the infamous idea of New Year’s resolutions. I typically don’t make any resolutions at the beginning of the year, because honestly they sort of make me feel
- [The Power of Choice | The MilSpo's Guide to Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/milsposelfcare-the-power-of-choice/) - It started with the ring of a hotel room phone. I didn’t think anyone even knew who I was yet. Apparently my all-star-volunteer reputation had preceded me to Fort Bragg. Before we were even settled, someone from post was calling to ask for my help — again, without pay. Normally, I would have said yes.
- [Six Steps to Happy, Healthy Holidays](https://in-dependent.org/6-steps-happy-healthy-holidays/) - The holidays are here! For the next few weeks, the barrage of food, alcohol, parties, and stress is constant. We are insanely busy so workouts, healthy eating, and normal routines take a back seat. By the time January rolls around, we're up a pound or two, our muscle mass has decreased a bit, and we
- [A Big Announcement and a Giveaway](https://in-dependent.org/a-big-announcement-and-a-giveaway/) - Remember as a kid blowing out your birthday candles with a BIG WISH in mind, hoping with all your might it would come true?Well, InDependent’s wish came true! Two months after our first birthday, we began collaborating with Tara Crooks from Army Wife Network on a cutting-edge event designed to meet the specific needs of
- [How to Make the Holidays Feel Special During Deployment](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-make-the-holidays-feel-special-during-deployment/) - It’s the most wonderful time of the year!I have a confession to make: I am a holiday enthusiast. Winter is my favorite season. Thanksgiving makes me gleeful. Santa cannot compete with my love of Christmas. I even enjoy stomping around in the snow and ice on New Year’s Eve and complaining about how uncomfortable my
- [Cancer and Change](https://in-dependent.org/cancer-and-change/) - It’s funny how one event can have such a profound effect on your life. As I was recovering in the hospital, a sense of calm came over me. I started reflecting on my life and what is truly important to me. A simple, yet very powerful statement came to mind, “life is short”. My bout
- [Military Spouse Life: Getting out of your Comfort Zone](https://in-dependent.org/military-spouse-life-getting-out-of-your-comfort-zone/) - As military spouses, most of us pride ourselves on our ability to adapt and cope with change. An overseas move doesn’t faze us. We take deployment orders in stride. Expect the unexpected, we tell ourselves. Life as a military spouse is an adventure! We experience the unknown on behalf of our spouses and families pretty
- [MilSpo Wellness Summit Spreading Like Wildfire](https://in-dependent.org/milspo-wellness-summit-spreading-like-wildfire/) - CAUTION: The wellness bug is contagious and is spreading throughout the military spouse community like wildfire. U.S. military spouses from every branch, stationed all over the world, are banding together in support of personal health. The exact number who have chosen to frequent gyms and read ingredient labels isn't known, but approximately 2,000 have already
- [Easy Routine to Invest in Yourself](https://in-dependent.org/easy-routine-to-invest-in-yourself/) - At first, I dreaded my 4:50 a.m. alarm and wished I could just roll-over and go back to sleep. Now, as I sit in my chair sipping tea and watching the sunrise, I cherish this early morning me time while my husband and dog sleep soundly in the next room.I started this routine about a
- [Military Spouse Wellness Summit 2015: Invest in Yourself](https://in-dependent.org/military-spouse-wellness-summit-2015-invest-in-yourself/) - When I was 25-years-old, I packed up my life in Idaho and moved to Germany. Alone. I arrived in Frankfurt with no phone, no computer, no car, and a big ol’ knot in my stomach, hoping the gal who said she’d drive two hours to get me would actually show up. I had never met
- [Solo Parenting: Alone But Not Alone](https://in-dependent.org/solo-parenting-alone-but-not-alone-during-deployment/) - I never wanted to be a military spouse. I wanted a husband who came home every night before dinner, just as my father did. I wanted my kids to play with their cousins every weekend, just as I did. As a young adult I had naively wished for a different life than what I have
- [Five Ways to Celebrate National Dog Day](https://in-dependent.org/5-ways-to-celebrate-national-dog-day/) - "I want to talk to Darcy now. Put her on for me!" Every morning while my husband and I are on FaceTime, I hear these same words. He insists on talking to our baby, even while he's stationed in Korea. She may not be human, but she is our baby all the same – Darcy
- [National Relaxation Day: Three Ways to Relax](https://in-dependent.org/three-ways-to-relax/) - Summer is coming to an end – PCS season is wrapping up, kids are going back to school, long days are getting shorter, and the hustle and bustle of this new season is beginning. Annually, on August 15, National Relaxation Day can’t seem to come at a more perfect time.Research proves that daily stress can
- [How to Get the Stench Out of Your Smelliest Clothes](https://in-dependent.org/how-to-get-the-stench-out-of-your-smelliest-clothes/) - Have you ever encountered clothes so smelly you considered just throwing them out because they continued to smell even after washing? My daughter has been really great about helping out with laundry by hanging delicates, folding, and putting everything away. It's a job she tends to enjoy, which is an extra bonus. However, something went
- [Home Organization Checklist: Guest Room](https://in-dependent.org/home-organization-checklist-guest-room/) - I believe that a guest room is one of the most important rooms in a military home. Sometimes you might be lucky enough to have an extra bedroom. Other times, another room will have to do double duty. Often we are so far from family and friends that visits usually include an overnight stay. Having
- [Three Secrets to Recognizing When Your MilSpouse Dreams Come True](https://in-dependent.org/3-secrets-to-recognizing-when-your-milspouse-dreams-come-true/) - A milspouse friend messaged me recently, “I really feel like you are living your dream right now.”My first response to myself was, “Wait, what? I am?” My next thought was, “What a waste. Your dreams are coming true and it takes your friends to recognize it.” I have a history of not being very good
- [How to Maintain Healthy Living Momentum During Vacation](https://in-dependent.org/maintain-healthy-living-during-vacation/) - As the crowd was celebrating, cheering, and drinking champagne on New Year's Eve, you made a firm, private declaration that this year you were finally going to make a change and take control of your health and fitness. "Sure," an inner voice whispered. "Didn't you say the same thing last year....and the year before that?"
- [A Message for MilSpouse Entrepreneurs](https://in-dependent.org/a-message-for-milspouse-entrepreneurs/) - In our journeys as military spouses we experience a transition every 2.9 years on average. As an extremely persistent and determined bunch, many of us choose the entrepreneur path almost by default. I know and respect many military spouses that consider themselves makers and pursue income on a multitude of levels and on all different
- [The Deployment Chronicles: Four Ways to Prioritize Wellness During Deployments](https://in-dependent.org/four-ways-to-prioritize-wellness-during-deployments/) - Military spouses always say their deployment journeys come in waves of different emotions and challenges. For my first deployment, I definitely experienced times of both highs and lows. In hindsight (it’s always clearer!) I can see a direct correlation between my study habits, stress levels, diet, and emotions.I took on a particularly difficult course load
- [The Deployment Chronicles: Five Ways to Combat Loneliness](https://in-dependent.org/five-ways-to-combat-loneliness/) - We have all been through rough times, especially when dealing with military life. There are disappointments, fears, and the all too common feeling of loneliness.Recently, the idea of loneliness has crept into my thoughts on a daily basis. You see, right now my husband is deployed, making me feel a little out on a limb.
- [MilSpouse Unpacking Strategies Translated to Life](https://in-dependent.org/unpackingstrategies/) - It’s PCS season again. Thankfully the only traveling I’m doing this summer is related to vacation. I’m always up for a good adventure, but when I saw this post on Facebook from a friend whose husband just retired, I felt pretty good about not having to deal with moving this year:Feeling at loose ends while
- [Composting for Beginners](https://in-dependent.org/compostingforbeginners/) - Unfortunately there is no easy way to put this. Composting is so ridiculously easy, you may have very few excuses not to get started.First, what is composting? Does a big pile of smelly trash and flies come into your head when someone tells you they compost at home? Well you, my friend, are wrong. Composting
- [The Less Awkward Way to Find Mom Friends](https://in-dependent.org/findmomfriends/) - The loneliest I have ever been during my time as an Army wife was when my daughter was a baby. She was a barracuda of an eater and a disaster of a sleeper and I couldn’t believe that my husband got to go to work and abandon me at home, exhausted and very much alone.
- [How to Find Joy in a Rental Kitchen](https://in-dependent.org/findjoyinarentalkitchen/) - Sometimes in military life, we get assigned housing. Sometimes we get to choose a rental house. And sometimes, when all the stars align, we get to buy a house. But for me anyway, none of these are forever homes. We’ve never been stationed in a place where we would consider retiring.If you read InDependent’s newsletter,
- [Self-Reflection: Who Are You Really?](https://in-dependent.org/whoareyou/) - It was Bhava Ram’s job to interview me recently for a two-minute video about yoga, being a military spouse, InDependent, and why I think his new organization, Warriors for Healing, is so great. Still, I came away from our conversation with one huge takeaway. After I threw an acronym at him, he talked about how strong
- [Warriors for Healing - A Pathway for Coping with PTSD](https://in-dependent.org/warriorsforhealing-copingwithptsd/) - It was December of 1999. My son had just turned two years old. He was my entire life. The only soft spot I had left. I was dying of stage four cancer from exposure to depleted uranium years earlier while on the front lines of the Persian Gulf War. My back was broken and a
- [Seven Reasons to Rent Your Ball Gown](https://in-dependent.org/rentyourballgown/) - After over fourteen years as an Army spouse, I did something new and rented my ball gown for the very first time. I loved the whole experience and would definitely do it again. Here are seven reasons why you should rent your next ball gown. It saves money. We’ve had a walk-in closet for only
- [How to Escape the "I Have it Harder Than You" Trap](https://in-dependent.org/escapeharderthanyoutrap/) - Have you ever had a friend complain about her husband being gone for a week on a business trip while yours was deployed for a year? Have you ever felt like you and a coworker were equally pressed for time only to find out she was getting nine hours of sleep every night and you
- [Retreat Wish List](https://in-dependent.org/retreat-wish-list/) - Spending a long weekend with the rest of the InDependent team was truly inspiring. We all have a passion for healthy living so we were able to learn a ton from each other in just a few days simply by observing each other’s habits. We all came away with a list of things we’d like
- [Growing InDependent: Healthy Looks Good On You](https://in-dependent.org/growingindependent-healthylooksgood/) - “I just want to be healthy,” Meg said, gently placing her hand on her pregnant belly. Her message resonated loud and clear with the four friends who surrounded her at the InDependent leaders’ retreat in North Carolina last weekend. We spent four days in the Appalachian mountains, making plans for InDependent and getting to know
- [How to Effectively Handle Reintegration and Post-Combat Stress](https://in-dependent.org/reintegrationandpostcombatstress/) - Reintegration can often be just as difficult as the deployment itself. Through experiencing two deployments and reintegrations with my soldier, I have learned some key lessons firsthand. I am not an expert by any stretch of the imagination and still have much to learn, but my intention is to share some nuggets that will hopefully
- [Top 16 Healthy Life Apps For Military Spouses](https://in-dependent.org/16healthyappsformilitaryspouses/) - There’s no doubt, in many ways smartphones can be really invasive and counterproductive, as Kimberly Bacso pointed out in Smartphones: Doing Everything, Accomplishing Nothing. But if used properly, they do have a place. With their help being a smart, savvy consumer has never been easier. After three years without a smartphone overseas, I finally got
- [Six Ways To Match Your Energy To Your Responsibilities](https://in-dependent.org/matchingenergytoresponsibilities/) - Do you ever assess your responsibilities for the day and feel like you would rather retreat back under the covers than try to tackle it all? With a full load of expectations on your military spouse shoulders, I don’t blame you! I have a lot of interests and responsibilities plus an innate desire to be
- [Lando: Our Family’s Canine War Hero](https://in-dependent.org/caninewarhero/) - What better way to celebrate K-9 Veteran’s Day than to share our war hero’s story with you? Two years ago, my family attended a retirement ceremony for Military Working Dog (MWD) Lando. We had made the decision several months earlier to adopt him as part of our family. During the ceremony, MWD Lando was presented
- [The Deployment Chronicles: Finding Your DIY Improvement Project](https://in-dependent.org/deploymentchronicles-diyproject/) - Every deployment presents a choice for military spouses: either be consumed with the loneliness and isolation a long-term separation often brings, or use the time apart as an opportunity to grow. I know both choices first hand. During my husband’s first post-marriage deployment four years ago, I found myself isolated and depressed. I chronicled that
- [A Milspouse’s Greatest Health Investment: Her Dog](https://in-dependent.org/milspouseinvestment-herdog/) - He swaggers over and looks at me with those big brown eyes and without having to say a word he knows. So, he gently nuzzles his head into my lap and as I lay there stoking his fur, the emotions start to slowly drift away. Before I know it, I’m bent over, foreheads touching, kissing
- [Why: Johanna's Story](https://in-dependent.org/johannasstory/) - Have you been asked why you live, or why you do things a certain way and you realize you have no idea? When I was asked why I strive to live a healthy lifestyle, I surprised myself when I didn’t have a quick and easy answer. I grew up with an active and athletic lifestyle.
- [Three Military Spouse Survival Tips for Valentine's Day](https://in-dependent.org/survivingvalentinesday/) - In military life, it’s not unusual to find yourself having to make dinner for one when just the day before you had grocery shopped for a small army. It’s part of the life we live. Sometimes, it’s a blessing in disguise to have some alone time. Other times it feels like just as you begin
- [The Year of Me](https://in-dependent.org/yearofme/) - Two weeks ago my world came crashing down. Well, actually it was the shelf in the hall closet that collapsed. It was the straw that broke this camel’s back. This time last year I was the fittest and healthiest I had been in years, competing on a German soccer team that practiced three nights a
- [Three Ways to Feed Your Heart on Cold Winter Days](https://in-dependent.org/feedyourheart/) - Yep, it’s official. It’s February. We are smack dab in the worst part of winter. Our days are getting slightly longer by the second, but that doesn’t stop the snow from piling, the rain from freezing, and the bellies from being bottomless. At least in my house. It’s like an unspoken rule that if it’s
- [Words Will Break My Heart](https://in-dependent.org/wordswillbreakmyheart/) - When I was in fifth or sixth grade, my dad took me to a 2nd Chapter of Acts concert. It was a special night for the two of us because my sister was too young be out late and the music in all of its 80s glory was too heavy for mom. We enjoyed the
- [Military Spouse Communities, Join the Fun!](https://in-dependent.org/milspousecommunities/) - Drum roll please…InDependent Communities have arrived! If you’re a military spouse looking for an evening out with like-minded people, wanting to replace a running partner you left behind, or just looking for somebody who eats like you, then an InDependent (ID) community is a good place to start. Check out our five local communities: InDependent
- [Healthy Valentine’s Day Care Package Ideas](https://in-dependent.org/valentinesdaycarepackage/) - Deployments are tough all the way around. While I think it is tough here maintaining the home front with our first baby on the way and the typical new homeowner issues, I know that my husband is dealing with his own issues of adjusting to a new environment and his new job down range
- [How To Make Non-Toxic Cleaners with Commissary Products](https://in-dependent.org/nontoxiccleaners/) - Luckily, you can easily rid your home of toxic cleaners with an affordable trip to the commissary. I began switching from common commercial cleaners to non-toxic substitutes a few years ago and have learned many of the best alternatives commissaries offer.
- [How Sugar Affects Gut Health](https://in-dependent.org/sugaraffectsguthealth/) - Sugar. It’s almost a dirty word these days. Frequently admonished for its empty calories, this highly-palatable, sweet substance is also associated with an increased risk of diabetes, obesity,poor oral health,cardiovascular disease, and a number of other unfavorable health outcomes. But is sugar really the nutritional demon we’ve come to fear?We could address this question from
- [Our Top 14 Blog Posts of 2014](https://in-dependent.org/top14of2014/) - Military life showed up in full force for the InDependent team last year with PCS moves, deployments and long separations, promotions, pregnancy, and many other ups and downs. Through it all, we shared and collected stories to inspire you to stay healthy and well through all of the twists and turns of your lives. It’s
- [How to Detox Time Wasters](https://in-dependent.org/detoxtime/) - You know it’s the New Year when your newsfeed is flooded with self-proclamations of everything everyone is going to do differently. Whether it be health, money, or career related, we all know the drill. Admit it. In your head you catch yourself doing the exact same thing this time of year. Isn’t it ironic how
- [Four Ways to Make Your Resolutions Stick](https://in-dependent.org/make-resolutions-stick/) - It's the time of year that everyone believes they are going to make big changes. New Year’s resolutions are upon us. Everyone is having that supposed last cupcake before clogging up the gyms and filling their fridges with green vegetables. As good as our intentions always are, it seems that no one can make that
- [Twenty-Eight Day Sugar Savvy Challenge](https://in-dependent.org/sugarsavvychallenge/) - It is nearly impossible to reach January unscathed from the sheer amount of goodies we treat ourselves to from Halloween to New Year’s. Cocktails at parties, rich meals at potlucks, the Christmas cookie-making parties, the eggnog on Christmas Eve—they are all staples of the traditions that fill the season. But, those traditions can leave us
- [Healthy Holiday Gifts](https://in-dependent.org/healthyholidaygifts/)
- [Pearl Harbor Day: Reflections of a Vet’s Daughter](https://in-dependent.org/pearlharborday/) - As the daughter of a World War II vet, Pearl Harbor Day holds a special significance to me. It means a bridge to the past, specifically my father's past. It means celebrating the courage and valor of the men and women who fought against tyranny. Sadly, it also means a fading piece of history as
- [’Tis the Season to Give Back](https://in-dependent.org/givingback/) - After two months of preparation, I pulled into Moon Lake recreational site at 6:30 a.m. on a frigid November morning. Joining me were 18 volunteers from our Army community. We arrived bright and early to help set up the backdrops and the props for the first annual Very Merry Military Mini photography session at Fort
- [Steal These 3 Holiday Traditions](https://in-dependent.org/threeholidaytraditions/) - When you ask your kids what your family holiday traditions are, do they give you a blank stare? If so, don’t feel bad. You aren’t the only one who may have forgotten to be purposeful about creating memorable traditions. In fact, creating family traditions is something I’ve been working on for the past year. But
- [The Thanksgiving Grinch](https://in-dependent.org/thanksgivinggrinch/) - Think about the word gratitude for a moment. Let it roll around on your tongue. Is it sweet and well-received? Or, is it overdone? As we approach Thanksgiving, there are gratitude references everywhere. Even in my yoga class this morning, the instructor offered gratitude as an intention for our practice. I’m a big believer in
- [Three Things to Consider When Planning a Thanksgiving Menu](https://in-dependent.org/thanksgiving/) - Military families celebrate Thanksgiving in many different ways, but no matter where you are or whom you’re with, food is probably involved.In my family, menu planning falls to me because I’m the one who likes to scour Pinterest and magazines and blogs for new recipes. I now have a few favorites that I fall back
- [Why: Sharon’s Story](https://in-dependent.org/sharonsstory/) - When did it happen? That is what I asked myself one day. When did I stop taking care of myself? In July 2012, we went on a family vacation to Croatia. I knew I had gained weight, but I would tell myself, “Hey, I look okay. I have always been this size.” Funny how I
- [Coping with Loss: Softening Grief with Gratitude](https://in-dependent.org/copingwithloss/) - I initially jumped at the opportunity to write a gratitude post. The queen of silver linings shines bright within me and I thought it would be a quick, painless submission. Then, life happened. And then it continued to happen. Admittedly, the past month has been challenging to say the least. I lost my grandmother whom
- [The Joy of a Pen and Paper Letter](https://in-dependent.org/penandpaper/) - When was the last time that you sat down and wrote a letter? A true pen and paper letter? When was the last time you received one? There is nothing better than finding something in the mail that isn’t a bill or an advertisement. When I was little, there as always a letter or package
- [How to Dress for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball](https://in-dependent.org/marinecorpsball/) - Weekends full of celebrations, family get togethers, and potlucks start right about now.And if you’re in cohabitation with a big bad devil dog, it also means the frantic run around preparing for the annual Marine Corps ball. Let the panic commence! First ball? In the dark about what to even be looking for? Has your
- [You’re Invited to our Virtual Gratitude Retreat](https://in-dependent.org/gratituderetreat/) - You won’t want to miss out on our Virtual Gratitude Retreat happening during the month of November. All you have to do is subscribe to our mailing list. Then check your inbox on Sundays to find a newsletter packed with gratitude-themed quotes, articles, videos, and activities that you can complete on your own time during
- [Halloween DIY Party: Pumpkin Delight without the Fright](https://in-dependent.org/halloweendiy/) - If you’re looking for a fun party idea between now and Thanksgiving, we’ve got you covered. This DIY party idea can be adapted for a large FRG function or a small gathering with friends. Either way, it’s the perfect excuse to surround yourself with people when you’re missing home or enduring a field rotation or
- [Why: Nicole’s Story](https://in-dependent.org/nicolesstory/) - I strive to live a healthy lifestyle because it took a long time to get where I am today. There was a lot of struggle before success, but I fought through it all, and I am still working hard to reach my health and fitness goals. These are the top three reasons why I live
- [My Date with Breast Cancer](https://in-dependent.org/breastcancer/) - Dates. Our lives are full of important ones - our birthday, our wedding anniversary, our children’s birthdays. In the military, promotion dates and deployment dates are also important. I never thought THESE dates would forever change my life:February 5th: I’d never been happier to go to a routine physical. I needed it for our family
- [Fourteen Emotional Stages of Deployment](https://in-dependent.org/emotionsofdeployment/) - As any military spouse will tell you, one of the hardest things on a marriage is being away from your spouse for long periods of time due to deployments, field rotations, unaccompanied tours, extended TDYs, or even voluntary geographic bachelorhood made necessary by unique family circumstances. Being separated is an emotional roller coaster that we
- [Happy Birthday InDependent: One Year Review](https://in-dependent.org/happybirthday1/) - What if you were offered a job that required you to work many hours —primarily during the evenings, weekends, holidays, and major life transitions —under the condition that you may or may not receive a paycheck. Ever. Would you accept? For our InDependent team, this question is a reality. On the eve of our one-year
- [How to Develop a Personal Mission Statement](https://in-dependent.org/developmissionstatement/) - Overwhelmed with life? Developing a personal mission statement can help you break through the chaos of life by organizing your priorities and creating a plan to balance your responsibilities so you can meet goals and continue to grow in ways that are important to you. Have you ever had one of those days when you
- [Smartphones: Doing Everything, Accomplishing Nothing](https://in-dependent.org/smartphones/) - “If only we had a smartphone we would…” used to be a joke between my husband and me as we traveled around Europe while stationed in Germany. I wanted one and he didn’t. He objected mostly due to the cost and the hassle factor of dealing with mobile phone contracts as a military family that
- [Tell Your Tribe Giveaway](https://in-dependent.org/tellyourtribe/) - At InDependent, we believe that by making healthy choices we positively impact not only our own health, but the health of our families and peers as well. We launched our website nearly a year ago to share positive inspiration to help military spouses thrive, and we are truly thankful for each and every supporter who
- [Why You Should Participate in Kansas State University’s MilSpouse Survey](https://in-dependent.org/kstatesurvey/) - Did you know that 60 percent of military spouses were reported as being overweight or obese in 2013? Like me, you’re probably not surprised by this number. Not because it isn’t alarming. But rather because you are, or know of someone who is, this statistic. And you can’t help but be offended when well-intentioned health
- [How to Buy the Perfect Boots](https://in-dependent.org/perfectboots/) - Guess what ladies? It’s officially fall. The pumpkin spice lattes are flowing, the sun is setting a little earlier every night, and it’s time for copious amounts of slow cooker soups waiting to warm us up after a long day of picking apples and carving pumpkins. Our flip flops are slowly migrating themselves to the
- [4 Stretches to Fix the Pain in Your Neck](https://in-dependent.org/stretchesforneckpain/) - Nothing puts a damper on your day like having a stiff or sore neck, sometimes to the point where you can’t look over your shoulder to drive or you have to go to bed with an excruciating tension headache.Something as innocent as cradling a phone or sleeping the wrong way can cause neck pain, or
- [Dealing With the Distracted Nurser](https://in-dependent.org/distractednurser/) - Nursing is on the minds of many new mothers. No matter if it’s their first child or their fourth, it tends to be at the forefront of their concerns about raising their little one because we feel either strongly in support or adamantly opposed to it and continuously remain concerned about whether we are making
- [Three Beauty Problems Solved with Kitchen Ingredients](https://in-dependent.org/homemadebeautyproducts/) - “What is THAT?” my Marine asked me as he opened up the medicine cabinet to find a tiny plastic container full of dark golden liquid. Much to his surprise, it was not in fact a backup urine sample that I keep, ya know, just in case. It was actually a new facial toner that I
- [Milspouse Problems: Cooking for One](https://in-dependent.org/cookingforone/) - So there I was, alone on the couch for the second Friday in a row watching the Bachelorette and eating pancakes and ice cream for dinner. Yup, this was a record low during a recent long-term separation from my spouse. A delicious treat indeed, but a meal I would have never made had my husband
- [3 Yoga Poses for Better Sleep](https://in-dependent.org/3yogaposesforsleep/) - Ah sleep. When we get enough of it, it can help us maintain a healthy weight, lower stress and anxiety, and even boost creativity and athletic performance. I think we’d all like to get in on those benefits! Unfortunately, there’s a vicious cycle. Stress, anxiety, poor eating habits, and changes in schedule can cause insomnia. As
- [A few of our favorite things: August](https://in-dependent.org/favethingsaug/) - Michele: Aubrey Organics| Utility Bag | Epson Salt Bath Kimberly: Hot Yoga | Mason Jars | Walnut Taco Filling Leslie: Sardines | Belle Chèvre Goat Cheese Emira:Dallas Mania | Mint Nail Polish | Teraswhey Whey Protein Meg:Cards Against Humanity | Phase 10 | Sequence Game
- [They Call Them Military Brats](https://in-dependent.org/militarybrats/) - My daughter just started her senior year of high school. She is a track star, known for exceptional soccer skills and her nutty sense of humor. She has a calm strength about her that is effortlessly beautiful from the inside out. And, as an honor roll student, she has earned an early graduation if she
- [Tips for Transitioning Into Your Fall 2014 Wardrobe](https://in-dependent.org/fall2014wardrobe/) - If you’re anything like me, the end of August always feels a little bittersweet. We start sleeping with the windows open and slowly start abandoning our summer wardrobe. In fact, a small tear might be shed when the thought of putting on real shoes slowly becomes a reality. Ultimately, the “I have no clothes” phase
- [Children and Nature: Outdoor Activities for Kids and Families](https://in-dependent.org/childrenandnaturepart2/) - In my last blog post, Children and Nature: Raising a Nature Conscious Child, I referenced “nature deficit disorder,” a term coined by Richard Louv in his book, Last Child in the Woods. The concept helps us understand how nature affects our children’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Scientific studies confirm the many benefits of getting
- [Survey + Manduka Yoga Mat Giveaway](https://in-dependent.org/survey/) - We need your help! We’re currently building local communities to take InDependent to you so that you can meet like-minded military spouses and participate in local activities. We would love to get these communities funded so that we have more to offer. We’ve put together a 13-question survey that should take about 10 minutes of
- [Building Your Military Network](https://in-dependent.org/milnetwork/) - We have all been there — that uncomfortable position where we don’t know anyone at the next duty station. The thought of moving and having no one there to help or answer questions starts our hearts racing faster and faster. We not only want to find like-minded people, but we also want our families to
- [How to Organize Office Supplies with Mason Jars](https://in-dependent.org/masonjars/) - As I PCS from house to house, I’m starting to realize that sometimes organization solutions can become clutter that I have to figure out how to store. Going forward, I’m looking for things that can be used in multiple ways. Mason jars are one of the most versatile storage containers I’ve found. When we lived
- [Five Back-to-School Activities for Grown-Ups](https://in-dependent.org/backtoschool/) - Back-to-school season isn’t just for children. It’s a time when people return from vacation, activities on military installations start back up, and schedules start to take on more structure after the laid-back days of summer. Here are five activities to bring fun and focus into this time of year. Buy something to freshen your wardrobe.
- [How to Plan a Fall Vegetable Garden](https://in-dependent.org/fallvegetablegarden/) - Recently, I have had the pleasure of tasting the fruits of my labor. Let me explain. My husband and I planted tomato plants earlier this summer and they have been providing us with their deliciousness for a few weeks now. I can’t tell you how exciting it is to see something grow, and then to
- [A few of our favorite things: July](https://in-dependent.org/favethingsjuly/) - Michele:Online Yoga Series | Cow Share (Kansas) | Zucchini Kimberly: Home Practice Mat | Sweaty Bands | Non-Scratch Scour Pads Leslie:Berkey Water Filter | Stanley intelliLaser Stud Sensor Joy:Meditation for Moms | How to Talk So Kids Will Listen | Presto Griddle Meg:Pickle Pot | Loppers Emira:Dr. Jart’s BB Cream | Doggy Bags | Foam
- [Focusing on the Now](https://in-dependent.org/focusonnow/) - It's the perfect, lazy afternoon and my husband and I are chatting about nothing in particular at the table. We chat about the kids, the garden, and the landscaping projects. Then, he brings up his next TDY. “What are you planning on doing when I leave again next week,” he asked casually. I reassured him
- [Preparing for Deployment:  Weathering the Storm](https://in-dependent.org/weatherthestorm/) - No, I’m not speaking metaphorically. I’m talking about when Mother Nature goes all girl power all over your car, your house, your street, your everything, and you’re left cleaning up that b-word’s mess. I recently lost my car due to a total freak hail storm that hit while I was at work. You know, the
- [Brianna’s Story](https://in-dependent.org/briannasstory/) - Why do I strive to live a healthy lifestyle? This was a question that I didn’t really have to face until 18 months ago. In my childhood, teens, and early 20s, I never struggled with weight. I’d always had a slim build and high metabolism and could eat pretty much anything I wanted. I didn’t
- [Children and Nature: Raising a Nature Conscious Child](https://in-dependent.org/childrenandnature/) - This afternoon I went on a jog at my family’s farm in south Texas – along a trail through a piece of land that we affectionately call the Pecan Bottom. As Daisy (my Weimaraner) and I ran past the grazing cows, I noticed one of the trees that I used to play under as a
- [Book Review: Skintervention Guide](https://in-dependent.org/skintervention/) - Remember the old saying, you are what you eat. When did we stop believing this? Probably around the same time miracle pills became the easy replacement for whole foods, natural light, and beauty rest. What if, instead of pills, modern doctors prescribed a six-ounce steak, 15 minutes in the sun, and eight hours of sleep?
- [Four Airport Travel Tips](https://in-dependent.org/airporttips/) - I fly a lot. Seriously, I have already been on six air travel round trips this year and have another four planned. With the convenience of flying, many of us have turned from hours logged in the car to hours logged in the airport. For me, the worst part of flying is that it sometimes
- [How You Start Your Mornings](https://in-dependent.org/startyourmornings/) - Starting your morning off on the right foot can mean the difference between a good day and a bad one. To be honest, some of my mornings are better than others. I recently started trying to use Kimberly’s morning preparation advice to get my day started right. Sometimes you just need a little advice to
- [How To Paint Your Home Interior](https://in-dependent.org/paintyourhomeinterior/) - Being in the military has advantages like living in different places and going on new adventures all over the world. My husband and I have always had in the back of our minds that we would buy a place if we got stationed in a city that we thought would be a good investment or
- [Three Must-Haves for Surviving a PCS in Skinny Jeans](https://in-dependent.org/survivepcsinskinnyjeans/) - The dreaded permanent-change-of-station season is upon us. It’s a time when military spouses put on a brave face and say goodbye to friends, do a deep cleaning and purge of their houses and lives (again), and wait for the movers to whisk everything to their next duty stations. This time is accompanied with:“I can’t wait
- [Father’s Day When Dad is Away](https://in-dependent.org/fathersdaywhendadisaway/) - Just like with most holidays, the military can make celebrating Father’s Day difficult. Many times you are not stationed anywhere near your hometown to celebrate with your own dad. Things could be even more complicated than distance when you are trying to celebrate Father’s Day with your husband who could be anywhere once Father’s Day
- [Preparing for Deployment: Creating a Financial Strategy](https://in-dependent.org/prepfinances/) - As with many things during deployment, the way you handle finances has to change right along with the change in circumstances. There is more money coming in, responsibilities for paying bills may shift, you have to make sure you have a power of attorney so you can act on behalf of your spouse, and your
- [Four Tips to Start Geocaching](https://in-dependent.org/geocaching/) - I call geocaching hiking with a purpose. It’s a worldwide, GPS-enabled scavenger hunt that is fun for the whole family. Most recently, my daughter and I spent an afternoon with my parents exploring a cemetery, a road leading to a campsite that doesn’t exist anymore, and an interesting tree formation in the mountains. The challenge
- [Meet Meg](https://in-dependent.org/meetmeg/)
- [A few of our favorite things: May](https://in-dependent.org/favethingsmay/) - Make sure to use PopNod first before clicking the links indicated below to see if you can get cash back while contributing to your favorite causes (Including InDependent). Michele: Planner | Thrive (via PopNod) | Tick Twister (via PopNod) Kimberly: Leggings | Office in a Bag Leslie: The Hormone Cure (via PopNod) | Water Bottle
- [Introducing: Instagram Summer Motivation Series - Eat Well](https://in-dependent.org/instagramsummer/) - Summer can be a particularly tricky time to create or maintain healthy habits with kids out of school, vacations, PCS season in full swing, and lots of warm weather socializing. At InDependent, we know that it’s easier to stay on track when you have to be accountable to somebody. So, we created the Instagram Summer
- [Why: Brooke's Story](https://in-dependent.org/brookesstory/) - Why I strive to live healthfully: Hello InDependent readers! I am so excited to be able to write this piece and share a little of my journey with you. I want to be super honest and candid in this post so let me give you some really personal background. I was depressed and overweight most
- [Five Style Tips for Expecting Moms](https://in-dependent.org/expectingtips/) - I am 23 weeks along in my third pregnancy. Like everything with children, this pregnancy has been much different than my others. From my cravings, to my moods, to my clothes, to my duty stations, everything is different with each pregnancy.My first pregnancy I remember living in leggings and a large shirt. I felt cute,
- [Three Ways to Wear Yoga Pants for Travel](https://in-dependent.org/yogapantsfashion/) - What girl doesn’t want yoga pants to be acceptable fashion for everyday wear? They are comfy and versatile – they can even be fashionable. Although you may not want to wear your yoga pants to your next hail and farewell, they are perfect for travel. With minimal effort yoga pants can be comfortable sitting in
- [Conquer a Military Move with Refurbished Furniture](https://in-dependent.org/refurbfurniture/) - As a military spouse, I know that moving is a part of the deal. For the immediate future, I know that I may never live in the home of my dreams. But, that doesn’t mean that I can’t make a few adjustments to tailor my house to my needs. You may be asking yourself, is
- [Log Off for Genuine Friendship](https://in-dependent.org/logoff/) - How are your in-person friendships lately? Admit it, you just got done checking Facebook, tweeting someone back, totally liking someone’s feel good vibe they posted on Instagram. You want to know how I know…because you’re reading this. Okay, so maybe (big, fat maybe) you don’t have a social media account and you didn’t follow a
- [Support InDependent through PopNod.com](https://in-dependent.org/popnod/) - We are excited to announce that InDependent is now on PopNod.com! This is a wonderful site where you select a cause that you would like to support, like InDependent, and then shop at your favorite stores like Amazon, Best Buy, Target and so many others. PopNod provides you with coupons for participating stores. And, for
- [Home Organization Checklist:  Master Closet](https://in-dependent.org/mastercloset/) - Full-disclosure: In prepping for our upcoming PCS, I’m having a really hard time purging my closet this time around. Usually, I go through my organization process before I write something like this, but this time around, I’m writing before I’m all done. Perhaps I can motivate myself!In my current house that was built well over
- [Strike a Pose During Your Travels](https://in-dependent.org/strikeapose/) - Before leaving Germany, I was able to spend a beautiful Saturday hiking through the hills near Bamberg with several of our friends. Kimberly and her husband organized the event and I was so excited to be a part of it. One of my favorite moments while roaming those beautiful hills was being egged on by
- [Military Life Lessons Learned From Our Mothers](https://in-dependent.org/lessonsfrommom/) - I’ve never been much of a homebody. I’ve always wanted to go see what else there is out there. I begged my parents to go to boarding school at the tender age of 13. They refused, saying I was too young. At 15, my dad consented and convinced my mom to let me go. I
- [My Healthy Inspiration, My Mom](https://in-dependent.org/healthyinspirationmom/) - I am not sure why, but I am not the type of person who loves working out. I don’t crave it, but I (and everyone around me!) know when I need to get my butt in gear and get to a gym. I always feel better after I work out. And in saying and reading
- [Introvert’s Morning Out: 4 Strategies for Meeting New People](https://in-dependent.org/introvert/) - Frequently moving as part of military life means a having a constantly rotating social circle. For introverts like me, this can be the most daunting part of Army life. Pack up all of our things and move halfway around the globe? That’s a piece of cake compared to the awkward getting-to-know-you dance that happens once
- [Ways to Use Coconut Oil](https://in-dependent.org/coconutoil/) - How many people do you know that use coconut oil? Last year, my answer would have been one. I didn’t even know what someone would use it for, much less why they would want to use it. I mean, wouldn’t everything taste like coconut? Then in January, some of my friends and I were doing
- [Preparing for Deployment:  The Key to Success](https://in-dependent.org/keytosuccess/) - Being around the Army for almost 30 years has taught me two very important things: The only constant is change. Murphy’s Law exists throughout all the changes. Being an Army wife and mom are the greatest experiences that I have ever had. With that said, there is one big key to success to ensure being
- [Seven Sun Safety Tips](https://in-dependent.org/sunsafety/) - May is just around the corner, which means warmer weather and loads of outdoor fun! May is also skin cancer awareness month, so let’s talk about ways you can safely have fun in the sun without sacrificing style.I have a very personal experience with skin cancer. I’m a survivor of stage 3 melanoma. I’ve learned
- [Working the Wellness Plan: Getting Started](https://in-dependent.org/wellnessplan/) - Six weeks following the birth of my new baby, I had two medical appointments at the local Army medical clinic. The first was the typical six-week post-partum check-up. The second appointment, however, was far from typical for me. I had a nutrition and fitness assessment at the Army Wellness Center. Upon showing up for my
- [Six Ways to Use Lavender](https://in-dependent.org/lavender/) - While visiting the lavender fields on Hvar Island in Croatia during our last trip before my husband and I PCSed from Europe, we stopped to buy some lavender products for gifts. I know the salespeople were trying to sell their products, but from their descriptions, lavender could cure all that ails you. After we returned
- [Meet Emira](https://in-dependent.org/meetemira/)
- [Why:  Lauren’s Story](https://in-dependent.org/laurensstory/) - Why do I strive to live a healthy life style? It’s the Army Way As a military spouse, what we do at home reflects on our soldier. If we serve them unhealthy foods full of bad fat and sugar, their performance will suffer greatly. That’s why I love to cook healthy meals full of protein,
- [Spring Into Action Giveaway Winner](https://in-dependent.org/giveawaywinner/) - And the WINNER of InDependent’s spring giveaway is Bonnie Pritchard. You are an inspiration! Thrive on in your new Asics® Performance Running Shoes courtesy of Deena Kastor, U.S. Olympian. To help us celebrate our 6-month anniversary, we wanted to know what makes you Spring Into Action and many of you shared your inspiring stories. The
- [How to Organize Jewelry](https://in-dependent.org/organizejewelry/) - Have you ever had to untangle knots of necklaces to get the one you wanted? Have you ever forgotten about nice pieces of jewelry because they were out of sight? Have you ever lost precious time getting dressed because you couldn’t find what you were looking for? Have you ever wondered what to do with
- [DIY:  Painted Dresser](https://in-dependent.org/diypainteddresser/) - When we got married, my husband and I inherited a dresser and chest of drawers that had been in his childhood bedroom. I really just kind of disliked them. They were highly-polished, medium-colored wood that didn’t suit my taste. Not to mention that the drawers were too shallow to be practical. But since we are
- [Preparing for Deployment: Emotional Support](https://in-dependent.org/deploymentemotionalsupport/) - I am not going to lie. This was a tough blog for me to write. I kept asking myself “Why is it important to have an emotional support system?” The only answer I could initially come up with was, “Cause, it is!” Since that would do no one any good, I had to dig a
- [How to Begin Accepting Your Body’s Story](https://in-dependent.org/acceptingyourbody/) - “Every single body has a story to tell and no one is judging you for yours, except maybe you.” --Desiree Rumbaugh I’m going to let you in on a dirty little secret. When I saw the photo that was going to run with the Leavenworth community highlight, I had unkind thoughts toward myself. I was
- [How to organize like a pro during your next PCS move](https://in-dependent.org/pcslikeapro/) - Anxiety started to flood my body as I watched the moving truck -- full of our entire life -- pull away from our German house. This was the home we had built together as newlyweds on our first tour. Would our most valuable possessions make it across the Atlantic Ocean on a one-month voyage via
- [Spring Into Action Giveaway](https://in-dependent.org/giveaway/) - We are celebrating InDependent’s six-month anniversary and we want to hear from you! We’re curious and want to know what motivates you to live more healthfully. What is causing you to spring into action? Be specific, and remember that there are all kinds of ways to improve your health by making yourself a priority. What’s
- [A few of our March favorite things](https://in-dependent.org/favoritethingsmarch/) - Michele: The Skimm | Buff UV Headband | The Virgin Diet Cookbook Kimberly : Ezekiel 4:9 Cinnamon Raisin Bread | The Baker's Daughter | Raw Pad Thai Leslie: Paderno Spiralizer | Zillow Rentals iPhone App | Stitch Fix Joy: CaliBowl Mixing Bowl Set Meg: Cuisinart Mini Prep Food Processor | Outer 6 Cup Blender
- [Meet Leslie](https://in-dependent.org/meetleslie/)
- [Cloth vs Disposable: The Diaper Dilemma](https://in-dependent.org/diaperdilemma/) - Of all the decisions we have to make as new moms, I thought diapering a baby would be an easy one. But, I got drawn into the cloth diapering/disposable debate. Cloth diapering has the allure of being environmentally friendly, easier on the budget, and better for baby. But figuring out how to get started with
- [Book Review: Women’s Health Big Book of Yoga](https://in-dependent.org/bigbookofyoga/) - Women’s Health Big Book of Yoga by Kathryn Budig is exactly how it sounds. It is a big book that guides you through the practice of yoga. With that said, it is just a guide. It isn’t supposed to be the end all be all yoga book. However, this book is easy to read and
- [Eleven Ways to Help in a Crisis](https://in-dependent.org/helpinacrisis/) - As a military spouse, I have experienced a crisis or two over the years. Even though we are moving into a post-war time, military families still deal with challenges. My definition of crisis is any problem that is pressing enough for someone to believe they must call for help. There will be people who will
- [Kami's Story](https://in-dependent.org/kamisstory/) - Why I strive to live healthfully: I’m Finally Doing It for the Right Reasons For a long time, I struggled with WHY I wanted to lose weight. It might seem easy enough to answer: to be healthier and fit. Hello! It wasn’t that easy for me though. I’m not even going to sugar coat it
- [Organizing Recipes with Paprika and Pinterest](https://in-dependent.org/organizingrecipes/) - I love collecting and trying new recipes. After years of adding to my collection, the sheer mass of recipes just grew too big. They were taking up a whole long drawer in my china cabinet. Everything was nicely organized by new and tried and true, and then by category from there. Still, it took an
- [DIY:  Organized Spices = Chalkboard Paint + Glass Jars](https://in-dependent.org/organizedspices/) - More than ten years ago, at our first duty station, after experimenting with several systems for dealing with my herbs and spices, I finally found a method that stuck. This method helped me quickly find what I needed and it was versatile enough to allow me to easily add or subtract from my collection. I
- [Preparing for Deployment: Home and Auto Toolbox](https://in-dependent.org/deploymenttoolbox/) - You stand there and say goodbye to your spouse, arms wrapped around each other, knowing that it will be the last hug you’ll share for the next several long months. You somehow manage to get yourself together enough to make your way home. And then it happens…something breaks besides your heart -- like the toilet,
- [A few of our February favorite things](https://in-dependent.org/favoritethingsfeb/) - Michele: REI® Balance Gym Bag | PROfreshionals® Citrus Keeper | Soup Thermos® Kimberly: Vibrantly® App | Clutterfree with Kids | FitBit Flex® Wristband Leslie: VillageTea® Mobile Teapot | The 21-Day Sugar Detox | 100% Raw Shea Butter Joy: Taasky® App | Organic Throat Coat Herbal Tea | Nathan® Tritan Graphic Bottle Meg: The Women’s Health
- [Me and My High Horse](https://in-dependent.org/highhorse/) - I always get a little offended when I find that I am no different than a statistic. I have always prided myself on being different than everybody else…I have always marched to the beat of my own drum. Consequently, when I find that I have the same thoughts, feelings, and frustrations as other women my
- [Meet Michele](https://in-dependent.org/meetmichele/)
- [Three Questions to Help You Find Your Dream](https://in-dependent.org/findyourdream/) - I am on a path to do what I love and the best part is that it involves being in a partnership with my husband. Together, we imagined a dream for our post-military lives. Then we systematically set and worked toward goals leading us to that dream. I’m sharing my story in an effort to
- [Sleep: Advice from a U.S. Olympian](https://in-dependent.org/servingsleep/) - Last week, I offered you running as the first ingredient in a recipe to success for serving your country by starting a positive ripple effect with your family, co-workers, and neighbors. This ripple effect starts with healthy decisions that you make for yourself. The second ingredient is getting an adequate amount of sleep. Getting a
- [Book Review: The Power of Full Engagement](https://in-dependent.org/poweroffullengagement/) - The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Perofrmance and Personal Renewal by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz is a game changer. So often we think we need to manage our time better or learn how to control stress more effectively. But what if we’re focusing on the wrong
- [Why: Tina's Story](https://in-dependent.org/tinasstory/) - Why do I strive for a healthy lifestyle? I worked past a moment of tragedy and saw an opportunity for growth. The small changes I made along the way helped me to bounce back and set standards for a positive outcome. The “big change” in my health routine came after we lost our preterm son
- [Four Ways to Update Your Wardrobe on a Budget](https://in-dependent.org/updateonabudget/) - When the Army uprooted my sister Meg from the South and planted her in Germany, she was not prepared for the cold winters and she found that her wardrobe was out of date. Since I’m more interested in shopping than she is, I acted as her personal shopper and filled a few gaps in her
- [Finding a Place to Call Home](https://in-dependent.org/placetocallhome/) - “Please feel welcome to worship with us.” These were the words spoken to my husband and me as we visited our first church in our new town. Are there any more welcoming words? You are welcome here. You are welcome to worship with us. You are wanted here. We have a place for you. You
- [How to Start Beating the Blues in Five Minutes](https://in-dependent.org/beattheblues/) - When my daughter was a baby, I used to cry at the top of the stairs when I said goodbye to my husband. I couldn’t believe that he got to put on a spit-up free uniform and go to work where there would be no crying baby. How I longed to escape! We were new
- [Homemade Baby Food: Good for Baby, Good for Me](https://in-dependent.org/homemadebabyfood/) - We’ve been making our own baby food for our 7-month-old from fresh produce and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how easy and inexpensive it is. Even though my dinner routine is cooking while juggling the attention of both an active toddler and a baby who wants to snuggle all the time, I’ve been able to
- [Three Strategies to Drink More Water](https://in-dependent.org/threewaystodrinkmorewater/) - You’re a tall drink of water is just another way to say someone’s hot. But what if the literal glass of water isn’t nearly as attractive? We all know we need to drink at least 64 ounces of water a day. Getting that much down is second nature to some people and seemingly impossible for
- [Five Valentine’s Day Activities for You and Your Friends](https://in-dependent.org/valentinesfriends/) - Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Like many military spouses, I have sometimes had to spend this lovey-dovey holiday without my spouse. So what do you do when you can’t spend a romantic day or evening with your loved one? Well, that is simple. Grab your best friends and spend it together.There is something
- [four essentials for date night with your spouse](https://in-dependent.org/datenight/) - As a military spouse, I know that quality time with my husband can sometimes be limited. Many times our service members are in the field, deployed, or going TDY, making it difficult to spend the time we want or need with our loved ones. One of the best ways that I have found to get
- [Why Campaign: Elizabeth’s story](https://in-dependent.org/elizabethsstory/) - Why do I exercise? Simply for well-being. Every workout is time, effort, and energy devoted to my fitness and my psyche. If I can regularly carve out time for myself, I feel better, am more productive, and am a nicer person. The act of exercising makes me feel good about myself. I'm expending energy, but
- [Three Ways to Boost Immunity](https://in-dependent.org/boostimmunity/) - Have you ever made it through a particularly stressful time only to fall sick when it’s all over? Maybe it was after completing finals at school, finishing a big project at work, welcoming your spouse home after deployment, or playing hostess for the holidays. Any one of these stressful events can cause your normal healthy
- [Instant Relief for Dry Winter Skin](https://in-dependent.org/drywinterskin/) - We PCSed to Kansas last summer, and one thing that I’ve really noticed is that my skin isn’t as dry as it had been in Germany. I used to have to put lotion on every day but I got out of the habit here in Kansas because it just isn’t necessary.My crocodile skin resurfaced in
- [Four Stages of Culture Shock Every Military Spouse Should Know](https://in-dependent.org/cultureshock/) - “I’ll take a large water with lemon and no ice.” My new friend, whom I’ve known for three hours, looks at me perplexed and asks, “Anna, we are in Georgia. It’s over 100 degrees. Why are you ordering a drink without ice?” My response, “Due to the cool climate in Russia, I prefer not to
- [Two Ways to Help Time In the Car Melt Away](https://in-dependent.org/timeinthecar/) - Many of us here at InDependent traveled over the holidays. Kimberly recently returned from a 4,000-mile road trip, Michele just recently PCSed and visited family, and Joy traveled with her young ones to visit family on the West Coast this holiday season. So, if we have been traveling, we know that you have been on
- [One Healthy Activity a Day](https://in-dependent.org/onehealthyactivity/) - Life is hard enough as it is and throwing in a curve ball, like completely changing your eating and workout habits, can be difficult. For me, living a healthy lifestyle has been difficult. So, to battle the difficulties, I tell myself to take baby steps. Eventually I know that I will get the hang of
- [Working the Wellness Plan: The Magic Number that gets me Moving](https://in-dependent.org/magicnumberbodyfat/) - There’s a number that’s been indelibly etched into my brain. I think of it every time I make a decision at a restaurant. It comes to mind when I think, “elevator or stairs?” When I plan my week and try to decide when I’m going to go to the gym, this number always floats to
- [One Great Military Benefit that Gets You Moving](https://in-dependent.org/benefitgetsyoumoving/) - Did you know that military members and their dependents get the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass free? That’s an $80 value! Find all of the details here. The biggest thing you need to be aware of is that the sponsor needs to pick up the card in person unless deployed. After that, the
- [Eight Books to Help Fulfill Your New Year’s Resolutions](https://in-dependent.org/resolutionbooks/) - There's a lot of talk about whether we should even bother making New Year's resolutions. There are so few of us who actually keep them for longer than a week or two. Why bother? Have no fear - we have some ideas that can help. If you want to have a fighting shot at fulfilling
- [Baking Soda Shampoo & Apple Mint Conditioner : DIY Beauty Arsenal](https://in-dependent.org/diybeautyarsenal4/) - I was never a girl that could go days without washing her hair. A lifelong athlete, I grew up having to wash my hair once and sometimes even twice daily. I was convinced I had greasy, oily hair and bought shampoos to help combat it. I believed that the more I washed my hair, the
- [Military Spouse Manifesto](https://in-dependent.org/manifesto/) - Because military spouses are awesome.
- [Our Resolutions 2014](https://in-dependent.org/resolutions2014/) - Kimberly 1. Learn to manage stress better.2. Keep a wellness journal.3. Run again.4. Practice yoga inversions regularly. Michele 1. Make friends at new duty station2. Start a yoga practice3. Keep a gratitude journal Meg 1. Become stronger and more flexible in my yoga practice.2. Try something new at least once a month.3. Learn and practice
- [Four Tips for Shaking Up Your Wardrobe](https://in-dependent.org/shakeupyourwardrobe/) - Before my husband left for deployment, I thought I dressed pretty cute. Looking back, I was in survival mode after just having had a baby and didn't really know what I liked or wanted to wear. After my husband deployed, everything changed. I entered a new kind of survival mode. Instead of sinking into sweats and
- [Honey Olive Oil Body Wash & Shea Butter Deodorant : DIY Beauty Arsenal](https://in-dependent.org/diybeautyarsenal3/) - I found both of these recipes unintentionally. Having sensitive skin and an aversion to irritating ingredients, I was thrilled to find the deodorant and body wash that I had been using for a few years in the small commissary at our overseas base. But after a few months, my family curse kicked in - if
- [Connecting With Kids Through Running](https://in-dependent.org/runningwithkids/) - My 9-year-old daughter is at that age when she watches what I do and wants to copy me, but at the same time is starting to be embarrassed of me. She asks to go out for a run or try her hand at yoga arm balances just like me. But stand around while I try
- [Why Campaign: Jessica's Story](https://in-dependent.org/whyjessica/) - Why do I strive to live a healthy lifestyle? Throughout my life, maintaining a healthy weight has been a constant challenge. From the time I was young, I was always the “big girl.” When my husband joined the military I was determined to “get skinny.” Getting healthy didn't even cross my mind. I just wanted
- [Making a List and Checking it Twice](https://in-dependent.org/makingalist/) - Recently in my yoga practice I have been listening to lessons on progress. The overall message had me focusing on my accomplishments rather than my failures as a beginner yogini. Sometimes as a military spouse it is hard to focus on MY accomplishments. Case in point, my spouse has received several awards of which I
- [How to Tie an Easy, Eye-Catching Bow](https://in-dependent.org/tieabow/) - Whether you’re finishing up your wrapping to get everything under the tree, or getting ready to buy supplies at a discount later this week, this tutorial is for you. I’ve had a variety of jobs as we’ve moved around with the military. One of them was working at the Gussy Goose Craft Store on Patch
- [Ghost of Christmas Past : How Military Spouses are Never Alone](https://in-dependent.org/ghostofchristmaspast/) - Surrounded by children’s winter clothing, I sifted through the opened suitcase with my friend, an Air Force spouse, seated at my side. “I thought you might need some of these since you were dropped here in the middle of winter!” She laughed lightly, folding a tiny green sweater.Dropped here we were, from the beginnings of a
- [Honey Lemon Face Wash & Face Toner: DIY Beauty Arsenal](https://in-dependent.org/diybeautyarsenal2/) - I can categorize the years between middle school and post-college by the acne medication I was taking at the time. Middle school: Retinol and antibiotics. High school: Retin-A and, finally one round of Accutane. That six-month treatment of Accutane took me through my college years, when by the time I graduated I thought I had
- [Kitchen Gadget Wish List](https://in-dependent.org/kitchengadgetwishlist/) - I always find that during the holiday season I spend more time in the kitchen than any other time of the year. It’s also when I use that weird kitchen gadget I never thought I’d use. Ramekins? Mandolin? Double boiler? I use them one time a year and it’s always during Christmas. It’s also during
- [DIY Beauty Arsenal](https://in-dependent.org/diybeautyarsenal/) - Making your own beauty products from items found in your kitchen seems a little nuts. If you had told me three years ago that I’d be washing my hair with baking soda or using the rough equivalent of salad dressing as a facial toner, I’d have thought you were crazy. Who on earth has the

## Pages

- [Home Page](https://in-dependent.org/) - InDependent is the space for military spouse wellness. You belong here. For all spouses of the U.S. military. Active duty, veteran, reserve, national guard.
- [R&R DIY Orders](https://in-dependent.org/rr-diy-orders/) - HERE’S HOW Download the free printable and create an R&R gift bag of your own. Gift one or two and soon we’ll all be a little bit more relaxed! 3-Step DIY “R&R Orders” Gift Package Fill in the form and automatically download the R&R Orders printable for the person you choose to gift R&R Orders
- [About Us](https://in-dependent.org/about-us/) - get to know us Mission | Vision | Roots MissionInDependent makes wellness accessible and creates opportunities for all military spouses to connect for friendship, accountability, and inspiration. VisionWe envision a time when all military spouses thrive through connection to community and resources that results in healthy decision-making for themselves and their families. RootsInDependent is a
- [Food and Financial Resources](https://in-dependent.org/food-and-financial-resources/) - Here at InDependent, we are committed to making wellness accessible and finding resources that are available to military spouses and military families. If you know of a resource that we should add, please email our Fuel the Homefront team. Military: Air Force Aid Society- emergency assistance to Air Force and Space Force families when unexpected financial
- [Printable Resources](https://in-dependent.org/printable-resources/) - Parenting and Military Life Get it here Bring Clarity to PCS Emotions Get it here Gaining Clarity Flow Chart Get it here Hotel Microwave Meals: Easy & Simple Food Ideas for Your Trip Get it here Wellness Holiday Gift Guide Get it here Hotel Yoga Routine: Simple Steps to Wellness on the Road Get it
- [How to Extend the Life of Your Produce and Find Storage Space in any Pantry Printable](https://in-dependent.org/foodstorage-printable/) - THANK YOU, and welcome to our wellness family! Please download your Food Storage at-a-Glance printable below!
- [Resources](https://in-dependent.org/resources/) - Wellness Professionals Military spouse professionals with expertise in mental health. More specialties coming soon. See them here Printable Resources Printables, e-Books, workbooks, and infographics See them here Our Favorite Things Healthly living products inspiring military spouse to thrive Shop here Food and Financial Assistance Civilian, private, and military resources available to military families See them
- [IWS25 GA Dashboard](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-summit/iws25-general-admission-dashboard/) - Interviews Summit Essentials Featured Resources Summit Shop Virtual Swag Bag Summit Essentials WorkbookSchedule of events, areas for note-taking, recipes, and more! This is a fillable PDF where you can type in your notes, or you can print it and write them in. ConnectThis is our gathering place for socializing, giveaways, and in-depth summit content. The
- [Contact](https://in-dependent.org/contact/) - Say hello! Send us a message to get in touch with someone from our team. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Name *FirstLastEmail *SubjectI have a question aboutSponsorshipsTeam OpeningsContributingProgramsOtherMessageSubmit Need to get in touch? Click the buttons below to connect with the appropriate
- [Fuel the Homefront](https://in-dependent.org/fuel-the-homefront/) - “Provide easy, family-friendly meals that help you maximize your budget without sacrificing your time or sanity.” Enroll for free today Fuel the Homefront™ Workshop Feeling overwhelmed by meal planning, staying within budget, and keeping your family healthy? Does grocery shopping stress you out?You are not alone! Who ALL MILITARY SPOUSES past, present, or future. Where
- [Partnerships](https://in-dependent.org/partnerships/) - Support military spouse wellness by partnering with InDependent. Become a Partner Our Partners Donate Today Why does military spouse wellness matter? Military spouse well-being directly impacts the well-being of the entire military family, including service members. By supporting spouses, we bolster the strength and resilience of the entire military community. Pick your Partnership The majority
- [Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/wellness-summit/) - A premier virtual wellness retreat. The only free week of wellness that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home or anywhere in the world.
- [Team Openings](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/)
- [Get Involved](https://in-dependent.org/get-involved/) - How you can help At InDependent, we believe that with the right structure and environment, healthy behavior can be contagious. The platform we’ve created is designed for military spouses, by military spouses, in the hope of supporting individual change. Michele Bradfield, Co-Founder Donate Make a one-time or monthly gift via PayPal. InDependent is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
- [Terms of Service](https://in-dependent.org/terms-of-service/) - THE GIST: We (the folks at InDependent) run a website called In-Dependent.org and would love for you to use it. Our service is free and is designed to provide you with valuable health and wellness resources and support for military spouses worldwide. TERMS OF SERVICE The following terms and conditions govern all use of the In-Dependent.org website
- [Privacy Policy](https://in-dependent.org/privacy-policy/) - Your privacy is critically important to us. At InDependent we have a few fundamental principles:We don’t ask you for personal information unless we truly need it. (We can’t stand services that ask you for things like your gender or income level for no apparent reason.)We don’t share your personal information with anyone except to comply
- [Recommended Reading](https://in-dependent.org/recommended-reading/) - This library of wellness reading is comprised of some of our favorite and highly recommended reads for military spouses.Check out the list below! Purchase 10% Happier Topics: Self-Care Nightline anchor Dan Harris embarks on an unexpected, hilarious, and deeply skeptical odyssey through the strange worlds of spirituality and self-help, and discovers a way to get
- [Contributor Guidelines](https://in-dependent.org/contributor-guidelines/) - Are you looking to share your story or advice with our community of military spouses? Please follow the guidelines below to ensure that your submission is a perfect fit for our blog Although we are delighted to collaborate with individuals and organizations that want to champion the wellness of military spouses, we do not accept guest
- [Shop](https://in-dependent.org/shop/)
- [Press](https://in-dependent.org/press/) - July 22, 2024 InDependent and The USAA Educational Foundation Join Forces to Expand Reach of Financial Resources for Military Spouses October 10, 2023 InDependent Celebrates a Decade of Empowering and Supporting Military Spouses Through Wellness and Mental Health Initiatives Contact our press team Email: marketing@in-dependent.org
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## My Templates

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- [Our Program Section](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=our-program-section) - Fuel your wellness Military spouses supporting military spouses Workshop Fuel the Homefront A virtual workshop to help you provide easy, family-friendly meals that maximize your budget. Register for Free Coming Soon Wellness Directory A directory of wellness experts in different areas of health, wellness, nutrition, and more. Launching in 2026! coming soon Wellness Summit An
- [Elementor Single Post #224225](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-224225) - Elementor Single Post #224225 By InDependent April 19, 2025 With June being men’s health month, we decided to put together a short list of considerations for the boys. Most of these things men hear all the time. And even though we hear them all the time, countless guys continue to ignore these important aspects of
- [Resource Loop](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=resource-loop) - Resource Loop Get it here
- [Job Opening Archive](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=job-opening-archive) - Open Positions Wellness Education Chair POSITION SUMMARY: In this role, you will play a crucial role within InDependent. You will lead the development and creation of Read More » Treasurer POSITION SUMMARY: InDependent is looking for a Treasurer who is excited about helping a nonprofit prepare financially for funding growth. The Read More » Research and Data
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- [Summit](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=summit) - Interviews Workbooks Summit Essentials Featured Resources Summit Shop Virtual Swag Bag Summit Essentials WorkbookThis handy, fillable PDF is your all-in-one event planner. It includes sections for schedules, note-taking, recipes, and more. Fill it in digitally or print it for handwritten notes. ConnectThis is our gathering place for socializing, in-depth summit content, wellness challenges, and more,
- [Virtual Swag Bag](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=virtual-swag-bag)
- [Team Template](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=team-template) - Team Template Evie is a former Army Brat who said she would never marry into the military. Well, after 3 years of long-distance dating, she married her soldier in 2011. They have gone through 3 deployments together, moved to 4 different duty stations, and had 1 overseas assignment to South Korea. Evie was named the
- [Posts Archive](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-224338) - Template: Posts Archive The Men’s Health Guide for Military Spouses From resistance training to nutrition, discover 4 critical health and fitness considerations for male military spouses taking charge of their Read More » How One Military Spouse Used a Perspective Shift to Unlock Creativity and Wellness Creativity Beyond the Canvas: The Power of a Perspective
- [Printable Resource](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-224895) - Resource Downloadable Resource Printable Resource According to the DoD, in 2020 there were about 1.3 million active-duty personnel, and 36% of them have children. Military life constantly presents them with change – new homes, new friends, and new experiences. Did they recently move across the country or the world? Are they starting in a completely
- [Full Partner Logo Section](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=full-partner-logo-section) - Our partners and sponsors in wellness
- [Elementor Footer #224221](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=elementor-footer-224221) - Content Area
- [Default Kit](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=default-kit)
- [Elementor Single Page #224273](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-page-224273) - Elementor Single Page #224273 Interviews Summit Essentials Featured Resources Summit Shop Virtual Swag Bag Summit Essentials WorkbookSchedule of events, areas for note-taking, recipes, and more! This is a fillable PDF where you can type in your notes, or you can print it and write them in. ConnectThis is our gathering place for socializing, giveaways, and
- [Recommended Reading Loop](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item) - Purchase Recommended Reading Loop
- [Partner Loop Grid](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=partner-loop-grid)
- [Partners Slider](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=partners-slider) - Our Partners View Partnerships
- [Board Member Loop](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=board-member-loop) - Board Member Loop
- [Partner Slider Loop](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=partner-slider-loop)
- [Press Article Loop](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=press-article-loop) - May 8, 2025 Press Article Loop
- [Testimonial Loop](https://in-dependent.org/?elementor_library=testimonial-loop) - I love the mission behind InDependent! The focus on wellness is so important in the military community, and they provide wonderful encouragement from their content. You will find kindness, connection, and inspiration!

## Events

- [Wellness Summit '25](https://in-dependent.org/events/wellness-summit-25/) - 9th Annual InDependent Wellness Summit Cultivate Connections A virtual anytime, anywhere retreat for military spouses — past, present, and future. Stay tuned for next year‘s event! Service life can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to. The 2025 Independent Wellness Summit (IWS25) is the virtual wellness retreat designed exclusively for military & veteran spouses to help you cultivate connections, strengthen your well-being, and thrive in

## Job Openings

- [Social Media Intern](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/social-media-intern/) - POSITION SUMMARY: In this role, InDependent’s Social Media Intern will have the opportunity to contribute to our organization’s social media presence while receiving real-world experience, professional development, and various support benefits. This position will report to the Storytelling & Marketing Chair. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist in managing and scheduling social media content across multiple platforms. Collaborate with
- [Email Marketing Specialist](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/email-marketing-specialist/) - POSITION SUMMARY: We are seeking an individual to join our team as a volunteer Email Marketing Specialist. In this role, you will develop and execute effective email marketing campaigns to engage and inspire our target audience. This position is ideal for individuals who are interested in digital marketing, want to develop or hone practical experience, and
- [Wellness Education Chair](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/wellness-education-chair/) - POSITION SUMMARY: In this role, you will play a crucial role within InDependent. You will lead the development and creation of content that is educational, relatable, and practical for supporting and encouraging military spouse wellness. Through your leadership, you will empower military spouses by providing them with valuable resources and insights to enhance their overall well-being
- [Treasurer](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/treasurer/) - POSITION SUMMARY: InDependent is looking for a Treasurer who is excited about helping a nonprofit prepare financially for funding growth. The Treasurer shall ensure there is timely and adequate management of financial resources and reporting to enable the Board to monitor the organization’s financial resources. The Treasurer shall advise the Board of any significant financial matters
- [Research and Data Chair](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/research-and-data-chair/) - POSITION SUMMARY: The Research and Data Chair is responsible for the design and implementation of the organization’s data gathering initiatives. They will develop systems, research data funding prospects and ‘set the table’ for the organization to cultivate prospects. They will also work to develop systems to measure program and organizational effectiveness to determine growth and
- [Web and IT Chair](https://in-dependent.org/team-openings/web-and-it-chair/) - POSITION SUMMARY: The Web and IT Chair serves as the primary contact for all aspects of the organization’s website(s), software, and IT. They will handle a range of responsibilities that may include web design and development, routine site and content maintenance, and various updates to ensure sites align with the goals and objectives of InDependent.

## Resources

- [Hotel Microwave Meals: Easy & Simple Food Ideas for Your Trip](https://in-dependent.org/resource/tlf-microwave-meals-printable/) - Keeping your family healthy during a PCS is tough. It’s even harder when "home" is a temporary hotel room. Between the tiny microwave and zero counter space, cooking feels impossible. Fortunately, you don't have to resort to fast food or expensive takeout. That’s exactly why we created the Hotel Microwave Meals Guide. Inside our Hotel
- [Hotel Yoga Routine: Simple Steps to Wellness on the Road](https://in-dependent.org/resource/hotel-yoga/) - Stuck in a tiny hotel room or chained to your desk? We’ve got you. Tension doesn't care about your zip code, so your relief shouldn't either. Whether you’re traveling or PCSing, this hotel yoga routine is your wellness toolkit for a quick mental and physical reset. Why you’ll love this routine: Zero Equipment: No mat?
- [Alcohol Free Holidays E-Book](https://in-dependent.org/resource/alcohol-free-holidays-e-book/) - Includes a delicious mocktail recipe and tips for hosts and guests to thrive this holiday season. Enjoy our free e-book by filling out this quick form for your instant download.
- [Healthy Life Starter Kit](https://in-dependent.org/resource/healthy-life-starter-kit/) - Enjoy the Healthy Life Starter Kit e-book. We’ll journey through grit + resilience, healthy boundaries, gratitude prompts, and more! Fill out this quick form for your instant download.
- [Women with Money](https://in-dependent.org/resource/women-with-money/)
- [The Year of Less](https://in-dependent.org/resource/the-year-of-less/)
- [How Bad Do You Want It?](https://in-dependent.org/resource/how-bad-do-you-want-it/)
- [10% Happier](https://in-dependent.org/resource/10-happier/)
- [The Women's Health Big Book of Yoga](https://in-dependent.org/resource/the-womens-health-big-book-of-yoga/)
- [The New Rules of Lifting for Women](https://in-dependent.org/resource/the-new-rules-of-lifting-for-women/)
- [Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead](https://in-dependent.org/resource/lean-in-women-work-and-the-will-to-lead/)
- [Eat the Yolks](https://in-dependent.org/resource/eat-the-yolks/)
- [Sacred Spaces](https://in-dependent.org/resource/sacred-spaces/)
- [Friendships Don't Just Happen!](https://in-dependent.org/resource/friendships-dont-just-happen/)
- [Better Than Before](https://in-dependent.org/resource/better-than-before/)
- [Talk to the Teacher](https://in-dependent.org/resource/talk-to-the-teacher/)
- [The Power of Full Engagement](https://in-dependent.org/resource/the-power-of-full-engagement/)
- [Overwhelmed: Work, Love, and Play When no one has the Time](https://in-dependent.org/resource/overwhelmed-work-love-and-play-when-no-one-has-the-time/)
- [Year of Yes](https://in-dependent.org/resource/year-of-yes/)
- [Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life](https://in-dependent.org/resource/animal-vegetable-miracle-a-year-of-food-life/)
- [Rapport: The Art of Connecting with People and Building Relationships](https://in-dependent.org/resource/rapport-the-art-of-connecting-with-people-and-building-relationships/)
- [The Art of Neighboring](https://in-dependent.org/resource/the-art-of-neighboring/)
- [Farewell, My Subaru](https://in-dependent.org/resource/farewell-my-subaru/)
- [Kintsugi Wellness: The Japanese Art of Nourishing Mind, Body, and Spirit](https://in-dependent.org/resource/kintsugi-wellness-the-japanese-art-of-nourishing-mind-body-and-spirit/)
- [The Nesting Place](https://in-dependent.org/resource/the-nesting-place/)
- [This is where you belong](https://in-dependent.org/resource/this-is-where-you-belong/)
- [Wellness Holiday Gift Guide](https://in-dependent.org/resource/wellness-holiday-gift-guide/) - THANK YOU and welcome to our wellness family! Please download your Wellness Holiday Gift Guide printable below!
- [Gaining Clarity Flow Chart](https://in-dependent.org/resource/gaining-clarity-flow-chart/) - Rev. Dr. Amber Mattingly shared 3 ways to engage with your military pre-teen. One of those ways is the Clarity Flow Chart.
- [Bring Clarity to PCS Emotions](https://in-dependent.org/resource/bring-clarity-to-pcs-emotions/) - THANK YOU, and welcome to our wellness family! Download your Bring Clarity to PCS Emotions printable below!
- [Parenting and Military Life](https://in-dependent.org/resource/parenting-and-military-life/) - According to the DoD, in 2020 there were about 1.3 million active-duty personnel, and 36% of them have children. Military life constantly presents them with change – new homes, new friends, and new experiences. Did they recently move across the country or the world? Are they starting in a completely new school? Is one of

## Team Members

- [Melanie Simon](https://in-dependent.org/team-member/melanie-simon/) - Hailing from South Carolina, Melanie clings to her southern roots with pride. Since falling in love with her Air Force sweetheart, she has lived all over the United States with her husband and three children. She received her education in Business Management and Writing for Print and Digital Media and graduated from the Tillman School
- [Evie King](https://in-dependent.org/team-member/evie-king/) - Evie is a former Army Brat who said she would never marry into the military. Well, after 3 years of long-distance dating, she married her soldier in 2011. They have gone through 3 deployments together, moved to 4 different duty stations, and had 1 overseas assignment to South Korea. Evie was named the 2017 Armed

## Products

- [InDependent Logo Hat](https://in-dependent.org/product/independent-logo-hat/) - Add to your collection with this fashionable hat. The fabric on its brim and crown is distressed and the logo is embroidered in white thread. Free Shipping included. Product Specifications: 100% pre-shrunk cotton twill Soft crown 6-panel unstructured cap with a low profile Seamed front panel without buckram Adjustable hook and loop closure *All proceeds
- [Military Spouse Wellness Matters](https://in-dependent.org/product/military-spouse-wellness-matters-shirt/) - MILITARY SPOUSE WELLNESS MATTERS™. Wear this t-shirt as a reminder that military spouse wellness matters and that together we are stronger. We understand that by supporting military spouse wellness, we are supporting the entire military community and future generations. Free Shipping included. Product Specifications: 100% ring-spun cotton Unisex Sizing Pre-shrunk for extra durability Quarter-turned to
- [Wellness Matters](https://in-dependent.org/product/wellness-matters-shirts/) - Show your support that wellness matters to everyone when you wear this t-shirt. Free Shipping included. Product Specifications: 100% ring-spun cotton Unisex Sizing Pre-shrunk for extra durability Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center *All proceeds go to developing wellness programs for service spouses
- [Strength Mug](https://in-dependent.org/product/strength-mug/) - Feed all the different facets of your strength with this color mug that is perfect for your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or whatever hot beverage you enjoy. It’s a comforting reminder that your wellness matters. InDependent Wellness Summit™: Dimensions of Strength 2020 leaf design. Ceramic 15 oz. Dishwasher and microwave safe

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://in-dependent.org/category/uncategorized/)
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- [Stress Relief](https://in-dependent.org/category/stress-relief/)
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- [Team Members](https://in-dependent.org/category/team-members/)
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- [Retirement](https://in-dependent.org/category/retirement/)
- [Sleep](https://in-dependent.org/category/sleep/)
- [IWS21](https://in-dependent.org/category/iws21/)
- [IWS23](https://in-dependent.org/category/iws23/)
- [Parenting](https://in-dependent.org/category/articles/parenting/)
- [Press](https://in-dependent.org/category/press/)
- [Preparedness](https://in-dependent.org/category/preparedness/)

## Tags

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- [CKFF](https://in-dependent.org/tag/ckff/)
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- [military infertility resources](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-infertility-resources/)
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- [transitions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/transitions/)
- [Married to the military: cue the insomnia](https://in-dependent.org/tag/married-to-the-military-cue-the-insomnia/)
- [study: military spouses are sleep deprived](https://in-dependent.org/tag/study-military-spouses-are-sleep-deprived/)
- [sleep problems in military families](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sleep-problems-in-military-families/)
- [improving sleep health for US servicemembers](https://in-dependent.org/tag/improving-sleep-health-for-us-servicemembers/)
- [rest well: 5 paths to better sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/rest-well-5-paths-to-better-sleep/)
- [8 unique sleep challenges military families face](https://in-dependent.org/tag/8-unique-sleep-challenges-military-families-face/)
- [5 bedroom hacks for a good nights sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5-bedroom-hacks-for-a-good-nights-sleep/)
- [5 bedroom hacks for better sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5-bedroom-hacks-for-better-sleep/)
- [5 bedroom hacks that have the power to transform your sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5-bedroom-hacks-that-have-the-power-to-transform-your-sleep/)
- [redesign your bedroom for a better night's sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/redesign-your-bedroom-for-a-better-nights-sleep/)
- [how to sleep better](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-sleep-better/)
- [how to set up your bedroom for better sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-set-up-your-bedroom-for-better-sleep/)
- [tips for beating anxiety to get a better night's sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tips-for-beating-anxiety-to-get-a-better-nights-sleep/)
- [tools and tricks to calm your anxiety and get you to sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tools-and-tricks-to-calm-your-anxiety-and-get-you-to-sleep/)
- [6 tips to improve sleep and manage anxiety](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-tips-to-improve-sleep-and-manage-anxiety/)
- [11 sleep anxiety tips](https://in-dependent.org/tag/11-sleep-anxiety-tips/)
- [how to sleep when anxiety is keeping you awake](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-sleep-when-anxiety-is-keeping-you-awake/)
- [the emotional benefits of sleeping outside](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-emotional-benefits-of-sleeping-outside/)
- [five reasons you should sleep outside](https://in-dependent.org/tag/five-reasons-you-should-sleep-outside/)
- [earthing: the joy and health benefits of sleeping outside](https://in-dependent.org/tag/earthing-the-joy-and-health-benefits-of-sleeping-outside/)
- [7 amazing things that happen to you when you sleep outdoors](https://in-dependent.org/tag/7-amazing-things-that-happen-to-you-when-you-sleep-outdoors/)
- [benefits of spending time in nature](https://in-dependent.org/tag/benefits-of-spending-time-in-nature/)
- [nurtured of nature](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nurtured-of-nature/)
- [5 health benefits of spending time in nature](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5-health-benefits-of-spending-time-in-nature/)
- [how immersion in nature benefits your health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-immersion-in-nature-benefits-your-health/)
- [9 tips for choosing a hiking trail](https://in-dependent.org/tag/9-tips-for-choosing-a-hiking-trail/)
- [how to choose a hiking trail](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-choose-a-hiking-trail/)
- [hiking for beginners](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hiking-for-beginners/)
- [hiking 101](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hiking-101/)
- [hiking tips and tricks](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hiking-tips-and-tricks/)
- [military wild](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-wild/)
- [in the great outdoors with military wild](https://in-dependent.org/tag/in-the-great-outdoors-with-military-wild/)
- [here's what being outside can do for your health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/heres-what-being-outside-can-do-for-your-health/)
- [how nature benefits mental health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-nature-benefits-mental-health/)
- [spending time alone in nature is good for your mental and physical health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/spending-time-alone-in-nature-is-good-for-your-mental-and-physical-health/)
- [how to spend more time outside](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-spend-more-time-outside/)
- [eatwithpurpose](https://in-dependent.org/tag/eatwithpurpose/)
- [militarywellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/militarywellness/)
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- [food](https://in-dependent.org/tag/food/)
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- [Packing for an OCONUS move: tips and lists](https://in-dependent.org/tag/packing-for-an-oconus-move-tips-and-lists/)
- [Your OCONUS move: planning](https://in-dependent.org/tag/your-oconus-move-planning/)
- [resources](https://in-dependent.org/tag/resources/)
- [and tips](https://in-dependent.org/tag/and-tips/)
- [OCONUS PCS move: an in-depth guide and 15 expert tips](https://in-dependent.org/tag/oconus-pcs-move-an-in-depth-guide-and-15-expert-tips/)
- [the complete guide to OCONUS military moves](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-complete-guide-to-oconus-military-moves/)
- [PCS overseas checklist](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pcs-overseas-checklist/)
- [OCONUS PCS prep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/oconus-pcs-prep/)
- [support for military personnel and families](https://in-dependent.org/tag/support-for-military-personnel-and-families/)
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- [national military family association](https://in-dependent.org/tag/national-military-family-association/)
- [mindful movement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mindful-movement/)
- [mindfulness and the military](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mindfulness-and-the-military/)
- [de-stress and relax with chill drills from military onesource](https://in-dependent.org/tag/de-stress-and-relax-with-chill-drills-from-military-onesource/)
- [supporting military families with mindfulness and movement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/supporting-military-families-with-mindfulness-and-movement/)
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- [blog](https://in-dependent.org/tag/blog/)
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- [pantry](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pantry/)
- [nutrition](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nutrition/)
- [food waste](https://in-dependent.org/tag/food-waste/)
- [A Calmer Life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/a-calmer-life/)
- [free printable](https://in-dependent.org/tag/free-printable/)
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- [Milspouse checklist](https://in-dependent.org/tag/milspouse-checklist/)
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- [11 tips for living with allergies on base](https://in-dependent.org/tag/11-tips-for-living-with-allergies-on-base/)
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- [10 allergy triggers lurking in your home](https://in-dependent.org/tag/10-allergy-triggers-lurking-in-your-home/)
- [what triggers seasonal allergies](https://in-dependent.org/tag/what-triggers-seasonal-allergies/)
- [10 foods that may curb seasonal allergies](https://in-dependent.org/tag/10-foods-that-may-curb-seasonal-allergies/)
- [InDependent Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/tag/independent-wellness-summit/)
- [nutritional health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nutritional-health/)
- [Thanksgiving](https://in-dependent.org/tag/thanksgiving/)
- [pumpkin](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pumpkin/)
- [eat healthy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/eat-healthy/)
- [Healthy Eating](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy-eating/)
- [sexual intimacy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sexual-intimacy/)
- [sex](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sex/)
- [military life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-life/)
- [military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-spouse/)
- [yoga](https://in-dependent.org/tag/yoga/)
- [well-being](https://in-dependent.org/tag/well-being/)
- [mental health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mental-health/)
- [military](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military/)
- [military onesource](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-onesource/)
- [free mental health resources for veterans](https://in-dependent.org/tag/free-mental-health-resources-for-veterans/)
- [reach.gov](https://in-dependent.org/tag/reachgov/)
- [military mental health resources](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-mental-health-resources/)
- [Tricare crisis hotlines](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tricare-crisis-hotlines/)
- [free and low-cost counseling for military/veterans](https://in-dependent.org/tag/free-and-low-cost-counseling-for-militaryveterans/)
- [military couples](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-couples/)
- [military relationships](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-relationships/)
- [strong military marriage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/strong-military-marriage/)
- [military couple communication](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-couple-communication/)
- [PCS financial tips for military families](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pcs-financial-tips-for-military-families/)
- [financial checklist for a PCS move](https://in-dependent.org/tag/financial-checklist-for-a-pcs-move/)
- [money](https://in-dependent.org/tag/money/)
- [moving](https://in-dependent.org/tag/moving/)
- [home](https://in-dependent.org/tag/home/)
- [top tips for surviving military moving season](https://in-dependent.org/tag/top-tips-for-surviving-military-moving-season/)
- [decorating](https://in-dependent.org/tag/decorating/)
- [housing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/housing/)
- [military housing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-housing/)
- [Male Military Spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/male-military-spouse/)
- [health & wellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/health-wellness/)
- [movement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/movement/)
- [outdoor activities](https://in-dependent.org/tag/outdoor-activities/)
- [deployment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/deployment/)
- [goal setting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/goal-setting/)
- [diy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/diy/)
- [gift](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gift/)
- [forgiveness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/forgiveness/)
- [holiday season](https://in-dependent.org/tag/holiday-season/)
- [gratitude](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gratitude/)
- [thank yous](https://in-dependent.org/tag/thank-yous/)
- [get connected- military spouses and significant others](https://in-dependent.org/tag/get-connected-military-spouses-and-significant-others/)
- [how do you make friends as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-do-you-make-friends-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [defining your identity as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/defining-your-identity-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [who am I: thinking beyond military spouse identity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/who-am-i-thinking-beyond-military-spouse-identity/)
- [6 ways for military spouses to keep their own identities](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-ways-for-military-spouses-to-keep-their-own-identities/)
- [connecting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/connecting/)
- [personal growth](https://in-dependent.org/tag/personal-growth/)
- [holiday traditions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/holiday-traditions/)
- [traditions during deployment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/traditions-during-deployment/)
- [creative traditions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/creative-traditions/)
- [creating your own traditions as a military family](https://in-dependent.org/tag/creating-your-own-traditions-as-a-military-family/)
- [military family](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-family/)
- [Facebook Live](https://in-dependent.org/tag/facebook-live/)
- [fitness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fitness/)
- [homeschool](https://in-dependent.org/tag/homeschool/)
- [intuitive eating](https://in-dependent.org/tag/intuitive-eating/)
- [success](https://in-dependent.org/tag/success/)
- [working mom](https://in-dependent.org/tag/working-mom/)
- [know when to say yes and how to say no](https://in-dependent.org/tag/know-when-to-say-yes-and-how-to-say-no/)
- [how to stop saying yes when you want to say no](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-stop-saying-yes-when-you-want-to-say-no/)
- [say no often to say yes to what matters](https://in-dependent.org/tag/say-no-often-to-say-yes-to-what-matters/)
- [saying no](https://in-dependent.org/tag/saying-no/)
- [saying yes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/saying-yes/)
- [volunteering](https://in-dependent.org/tag/volunteering/)
- [COVID-19](https://in-dependent.org/tag/covid-19/)
- [separation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/separation/)
- [coronavirus](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coronavirus/)
- [quarantine](https://in-dependent.org/tag/quarantine/)
- [registered dietitian](https://in-dependent.org/tag/registered-dietitian/)
- [healthy pizza night](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy-pizza-night/)
- [pizza night](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pizza-night/)
- [feeding kids](https://in-dependent.org/tag/feeding-kids/)
- [prebiotics](https://in-dependent.org/tag/prebiotics/)
- [probiotics](https://in-dependent.org/tag/probiotics/)
- [gut health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gut-health/)
- [clothing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/clothing/)
- [No Spend](https://in-dependent.org/tag/no-spend/)
- [challenge](https://in-dependent.org/tag/challenge/)
- [what military spouses should know about base fitness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/what-military-spouses-should-know-about-base-fitness/)
- [committing to fitness together](https://in-dependent.org/tag/committing-to-fitness-together/)
- [InDependent](https://in-dependent.org/tag/independent/)
- [military spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-spouses/)
- [strong](https://in-dependent.org/tag/strong/)
- [misconceptions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/misconceptions/)
- [myths](https://in-dependent.org/tag/myths/)
- [military spouse friendships](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-spouse-friendships/)
- [how to find friends](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-find-friends/)
- [friendship and deployment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/friendship-and-deployment/)
- [women's health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/womens-health/)
- [healing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healing/)
- [making connections](https://in-dependent.org/tag/making-connections/)
- [prior proper planning prevents poor performance](https://in-dependent.org/tag/prior-proper-planning-prevents-poor-performance/)
- [7Ps](https://in-dependent.org/tag/7ps/)
- [6Ps](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6ps/)
- [5Ps](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5ps/)
- [6 Things to Do in the Morning to Have a Successful Day](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-things-to-do-in-the-morning-to-have-a-successful-day/)
- [6 things happy people do every morning](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-things-happy-people-do-every-morning/)
- [create a morning routine](https://in-dependent.org/tag/create-a-morning-routine/)
- [6 things you should do during the first hour of your day](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-things-you-should-do-during-the-first-hour-of-your-day/)
- [the best half marathon training plan](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-best-half-marathon-training-plan/)
- [18 things I wish I'd known before my first half marathon](https://in-dependent.org/tag/18-things-i-wish-id-known-before-my-first-half-marathon/)
- [how to train for a half marathon](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-train-for-a-half-marathon/)
- [13.1 strange things that happen when you run a half marathon](https://in-dependent.org/tag/131-strange-things-that-happen-when-you-run-a-half-marathon/)
- [you should travel solo while your spouse is deployed](https://in-dependent.org/tag/you-should-travel-solo-while-your-spouse-is-deployed/)
- [flying space A without your sponsor](https://in-dependent.org/tag/flying-space-a-without-your-sponsor/)
- [6 military mom tips for flying solo](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-military-mom-tips-for-flying-solo/)
- [my process of planning a solo trip as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/my-process-of-planning-a-solo-trip-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [how military spouses can travel solo](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-military-spouses-can-travel-solo/)
- [Plants](https://in-dependent.org/tag/plants/)
- [gardening](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gardening/)
- [military spouse your story is important](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-spouse-your-story-is-important/)
- [how to write your story in 6 steps](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-write-your-story-in-6-steps/)
- [write the story of your life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/write-the-story-of-your-life/)
- [why writing your story is important](https://in-dependent.org/tag/why-writing-your-story-is-important/)
- [tell your story and transform your life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tell-your-story-and-transform-your-life/)
- [artful storytelling](https://in-dependent.org/tag/artful-storytelling/)
- [best military spouse memes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/best-military-spouse-memes/)
- [13 hilarious ways to prepare for military life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/13-hilarious-ways-to-prepare-for-military-life/)
- [complete idiots guide to life as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/complete-idiots-guide-to-life-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [coping with military life through humor and writing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coping-with-military-life-through-humor-and-writing/)
- [remote work](https://in-dependent.org/tag/remote-work/)
- [dietician](https://in-dependent.org/tag/dietician/)
- [strollerstrongmoms](https://in-dependent.org/tag/strollerstrongmoms/)
- [southernpines](https://in-dependent.org/tag/southernpines/)
- [how to live authentically](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-live-authentically/)
- [recovering the I in wife](https://in-dependent.org/tag/recovering-the-i-in-wife/)
- [adapting to life as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/adapting-to-life-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [ETSing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/etsing/)
- [tips for surviving a military PCS](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tips-for-surviving-a-military-pcs/)
- [top 10 PCS mistakes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/top-10-pcs-mistakes/)
- [preparing emotionally for a PCS](https://in-dependent.org/tag/preparing-emotionally-for-a-pcs/)
- [embracing the winds of change](https://in-dependent.org/tag/embracing-the-winds-of-change/)
- [adapting to change in the military](https://in-dependent.org/tag/adapting-to-change-in-the-military/)
- [making the move and embracing change](https://in-dependent.org/tag/making-the-move-and-embracing-change/)
- [racisim](https://in-dependent.org/tag/racisim/)
- [wellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness/)
- [military transition](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-transition/)
- [milspouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/milspouse/)
- [MilSpo](https://in-dependent.org/tag/milspo/)
- [yoga teachers](https://in-dependent.org/tag/yoga-teachers/)
- [6 ways for military spouses to keep their own identity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-ways-for-military-spouses-to-keep-their-own-identity/)
- [to the spouse who's losing their sense of self](https://in-dependent.org/tag/to-the-spouse-whos-losing-their-sense-of-self/)
- [identity self and the military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/identity-self-and-the-military-spouse/)
- [how to maintain your sense of self as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-maintain-your-sense-of-self-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [having a baby overseas](https://in-dependent.org/tag/having-a-baby-overseas/)
- [giving birth overseas](https://in-dependent.org/tag/giving-birth-overseas/)
- [slow living](https://in-dependent.org/tag/slow-living/)
- [OCONUS](https://in-dependent.org/tag/oconus/)
- [military travel](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-travel/)
- [military FRGs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-frgs/)
- [military community](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-community/)
- [finding your tribe as a military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/finding-your-tribe-as-a-military-spouse/)
- [how to pcs like a boss](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-pcs-like-a-boss/)
- [what its like to pcs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/what-its-like-to-pcs/)
- [pcs basics](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pcs-basics/)
- [national domestic violence hotline](https://in-dependent.org/tag/national-domestic-violence-hotline/)
- [violence and abuse-national center for PTSD](https://in-dependent.org/tag/violence-and-abuse-national-center-for-ptsd/)
- [domestic abuse and forgiveness among military spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/domestic-abuse-and-forgiveness-among-military-spouses/)
- [how to report domestic violence-military one source](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-report-domestic-violence-military-one-source/)
- [domestic violence in the military](https://in-dependent.org/tag/domestic-violence-in-the-military/)
- [is military domestic violence a forgotten crisis?](https://in-dependent.org/tag/is-military-domestic-violence-a-forgotten-crisis/)
- [military families and intimate partner violence](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-families-and-intimate-partner-violence/)
- [taking yoga off the mat](https://in-dependent.org/tag/taking-yoga-off-the-mat/)
- [five steps for taking yoga off the mat](https://in-dependent.org/tag/five-steps-for-taking-yoga-off-the-mat/)
- [off the mat into the world](https://in-dependent.org/tag/off-the-mat-into-the-world/)
- [off the mat into life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/off-the-mat-into-life/)
- [live yoga off the mat](https://in-dependent.org/tag/live-yoga-off-the-mat/)
- [alcoholism](https://in-dependent.org/tag/alcoholism/)
- [alcoholic](https://in-dependent.org/tag/alcoholic/)
- [alcohol](https://in-dependent.org/tag/alcohol/)
- [recovery](https://in-dependent.org/tag/recovery/)
- [stage 2 alcoholism](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stage-2-alcoholism/)
- [sober](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sober/)
- [self-care is not selfish](https://in-dependent.org/tag/self-care-is-not-selfish/)
- [self-care is not an indulgence](https://in-dependent.org/tag/self-care-is-not-an-indulgence/)
- [self-care for the milso](https://in-dependent.org/tag/self-care-for-the-milso/)
- [6 simple self-care habits milsos should start now](https://in-dependent.org/tag/6-simple-self-care-habits-milsos-should-start-now/)
- [health and wellness coaching](https://in-dependent.org/tag/health-and-wellness-coaching/)
- [(also a number of the top hits are for the ID wellness summit!)](https://in-dependent.org/tag/also-a-number-of-the-top-hits-are-for-the-id-wellness-summit/)
- [supporting the military means supporting spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/supporting-the-military-means-supporting-spouses/)
- [adventures in isolation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/adventures-in-isolation/)
- [strategies against boredom](https://in-dependent.org/tag/strategies-against-boredom/)
- [your guide to outdoor recreation during social isolation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/your-guide-to-outdoor-recreation-during-social-isolation/)
- [20 things to do while social distancing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/20-things-to-do-while-social-distancing/)
- [cyberbullying](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cyberbullying/)
- [military bullies beware](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-bullies-beware/)
- [cyberbullying within the military community](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cyberbullying-within-the-military-community/)
- [5 ways to handle a mil spouse bully](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5-ways-to-handle-a-mil-spouse-bully/)
- [studying chess with a partner](https://in-dependent.org/tag/studying-chess-with-a-partner/)
- [how to play chess with your spouse and stay married](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-play-chess-with-your-spouse-and-stay-married/)
- [a fun way to play chess with my wife](https://in-dependent.org/tag/a-fun-way-to-play-chess-with-my-wife/)
- [should your better half play chess](https://in-dependent.org/tag/should-your-better-half-play-chess/)
- [geocaching](https://in-dependent.org/tag/geocaching/)
- [germany](https://in-dependent.org/tag/germany/)
- [adventure](https://in-dependent.org/tag/adventure/)
- [family activities](https://in-dependent.org/tag/family-activities/)
- [family time](https://in-dependent.org/tag/family-time/)
- [harnessing grit](https://in-dependent.org/tag/harnessing-grit/)
- [just being resilient isn't enough: why you need to get gritty](https://in-dependent.org/tag/just-being-resilient-isnt-enough-why-you-need-to-get-gritty/)
- [the power of military spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-power-of-military-spouses/)
- [how to tackle military spouse life with grit and grace](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-tackle-military-spouse-life-with-grit-and-grace/)
- [stress reduction](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stress-reduction/)
- [unplug](https://in-dependent.org/tag/unplug/)
- [strength](https://in-dependent.org/tag/strength/)
- [disconnect](https://in-dependent.org/tag/disconnect/)
- [simplicity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/simplicity/)
- [work-life balance](https://in-dependent.org/tag/work-life-balance/)
- [IWS20](https://in-dependent.org/tag/iws20/)
- [sleep](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sleep/)
- [core beliefs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/core-beliefs/)
- [beliefs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/beliefs/)
- [beliefs drive choices](https://in-dependent.org/tag/beliefs-drive-choices/)
- [values drive choices](https://in-dependent.org/tag/values-drive-choices/)
- [decisions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/decisions/)
- [decision-making skills](https://in-dependent.org/tag/decision-making-skills/)
- [self-acceptance](https://in-dependent.org/tag/self-acceptance/)
- [online communities](https://in-dependent.org/tag/online-communities/)
- [facebook groups](https://in-dependent.org/tag/facebook-groups/)
- [empathy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/empathy/)
- [cultivate empathy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cultivate-empathy/)
- [negativity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/negativity/)
- [hurtful words](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hurtful-words/)
- [bullying](https://in-dependent.org/tag/bullying/)
- [safe spaces](https://in-dependent.org/tag/safe-spaces/)
- [kindness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/kindness/)
- [U.S. Military](https://in-dependent.org/tag/us-military/)
- [how coronavirus spreads](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-coronavirus-spreads/)
- [symptoms of coronavirus](https://in-dependent.org/tag/symptoms-of-coronavirus/)
- [coronavirus prevention](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coronavirus-prevention/)
- [coronavirus military](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coronavirus-military/)
- [coronavirus emergency kit](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coronavirus-emergency-kit/)
- [coronavirus guidelines](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coronavirus-guidelines/)
- [pandemic](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pandemic/)
- [3 lessons on the value of commitment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/3-lessons-on-the-value-of-commitment/)
- [commitment builds character so stop giving up on yourself](https://in-dependent.org/tag/commitment-builds-character-so-stop-giving-up-on-yourself/)
- [building character commitment and camaraderie](https://in-dependent.org/tag/building-character-commitment-and-camaraderie/)
- [commitment builds character](https://in-dependent.org/tag/commitment-builds-character/)
- [community](https://in-dependent.org/tag/community/)
- [running](https://in-dependent.org/tag/running/)
- [beginner running](https://in-dependent.org/tag/beginner-running/)
- [5k](https://in-dependent.org/tag/5k/)
- [how to start running](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-start-running/)
- [exercise during pregnancy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/exercise-during-pregnancy/)
- [safety](https://in-dependent.org/tag/safety/)
- [benefits](https://in-dependent.org/tag/benefits/)
- [and guidelines](https://in-dependent.org/tag/and-guidelines/)
- [best exercises](https://in-dependent.org/tag/best-exercises/)
- [exercises to avoid](https://in-dependent.org/tag/exercises-to-avoid/)
- [exercise tips](https://in-dependent.org/tag/exercise-tips/)
- [what is safe](https://in-dependent.org/tag/what-is-safe/)
- [check-in](https://in-dependent.org/tag/check-in/)
- [conscious living](https://in-dependent.org/tag/conscious-living/)
- [awareness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/awareness/)
- [health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/health/)
- [fresh start](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fresh-start/)
- [health assessment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/health-assessment/)
- [health quiz](https://in-dependent.org/tag/health-quiz/)
- [what do dieticians recommend?](https://in-dependent.org/tag/what-do-dieticians-recommend/)
- [10 healthy eating rules from a nutritionist](https://in-dependent.org/tag/10-healthy-eating-rules-from-a-nutritionist/)
- [healthy eating tips from RDs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy-eating-tips-from-rds/)
- [how to eat like a dietician](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-eat-like-a-dietician/)
- [gain control over emotional eating](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gain-control-over-emotional-eating/)
- [curb cravings](https://in-dependent.org/tag/curb-cravings/)
- [how to stop binge eating](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-stop-binge-eating/)
- [smart ways to curb cravings](https://in-dependent.org/tag/smart-ways-to-curb-cravings/)
- [control](https://in-dependent.org/tag/control/)
- [stop](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stop/)
- [emotional](https://in-dependent.org/tag/emotional/)
- [stage 1 alcoholism](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stage-1-alcoholism/)
- [breathing techniques for stress](https://in-dependent.org/tag/breathing-techniques-for-stress/)
- [deep breathing exercises](https://in-dependent.org/tag/deep-breathing-exercises/)
- [breathing for anxiety](https://in-dependent.org/tag/breathing-for-anxiety/)
- [how to take a deep breath when stressed](https://in-dependent.org/tag/how-to-take-a-deep-breath-when-stressed/)
- [breathing exercises for relaxation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/breathing-exercises-for-relaxation/)
- [habits](https://in-dependent.org/tag/habits/)
- [strategies](https://in-dependent.org/tag/strategies/)
- [healthier relationship with food](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthier-relationship-with-food/)
- [cure unhealthy relationship](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cure-unhealthy-relationship/)
- [nutritionist](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nutritionist/)
- [normal relationship](https://in-dependent.org/tag/normal-relationship/)
- [chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/chili-recipes/)
- [best chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/best-chili-recipes/)
- [crockpot chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/crockpot-chili-recipes/)
- [slow cooker chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/slow-cooker-chili-recipes/)
- [beef chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/beef-chili-recipes/)
- [vegetarian chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/vegetarian-chili-recipes/)
- [vegetarian](https://in-dependent.org/tag/vegetarian/)
- [favorite chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/favorite-chili-recipes/)
- [quick chili recipe](https://in-dependent.org/tag/quick-chili-recipe/)
- [chili recipes with beans](https://in-dependent.org/tag/chili-recipes-with-beans/)
- [beans](https://in-dependent.org/tag/beans/)
- [easy chili recipes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/easy-chili-recipes/)
- [comfort food](https://in-dependent.org/tag/comfort-food/)
- [chili](https://in-dependent.org/tag/chili/)
- [countdown](https://in-dependent.org/tag/countdown/)
- [thrive](https://in-dependent.org/tag/thrive/)
- [injury](https://in-dependent.org/tag/injury/)
- [physical therapy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/physical-therapy/)
- [winter](https://in-dependent.org/tag/winter/)
- [solstice](https://in-dependent.org/tag/solstice/)
- [yule](https://in-dependent.org/tag/yule/)
- [rituels](https://in-dependent.org/tag/rituels/)
- [reflection](https://in-dependent.org/tag/reflection/)
- [release](https://in-dependent.org/tag/release/)
- [pregnancy loss](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pregnancy-loss/)
- [loss and grief in pregnancy and postpartum](https://in-dependent.org/tag/loss-and-grief-in-pregnancy-and-postpartum/)
- [pregnancy loss organizations](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pregnancy-loss-organizations/)
- [pregnancy loss support](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pregnancy-loss-support/)
- [moms](https://in-dependent.org/tag/moms/)
- [motherhood](https://in-dependent.org/tag/motherhood/)
- [stay at home mom](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stay-at-home-mom/)
- [resolutions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/resolutions/)
- [parenting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/parenting/)
- [gift ideas](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gift-ideas/)
- [gift guide](https://in-dependent.org/tag/gift-guide/)
- [holidays](https://in-dependent.org/tag/holidays/)
- [Christmas](https://in-dependent.org/tag/christmas/)
- [presents](https://in-dependent.org/tag/presents/)
- [SmileMail](https://in-dependent.org/tag/smilemail/)
- [snail mail](https://in-dependent.org/tag/snail-mail/)
- [letters](https://in-dependent.org/tag/letters/)
- [Wellness Happy Hour](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness-happy-hour/)
- [holiday](https://in-dependent.org/tag/holiday/)
- [mocktail](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mocktail/)
- [alcohol free](https://in-dependent.org/tag/alcohol-free/)
- [recipe](https://in-dependent.org/tag/recipe/)
- [healthy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy/)
- [wellness unfiltered](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness-unfiltered/)
- [host](https://in-dependent.org/tag/host/)
- [substance use](https://in-dependent.org/tag/substance-use/)
- [conversations](https://in-dependent.org/tag/conversations/)
- [stories](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stories/)
- [isolation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/isolation/)
- [suicide](https://in-dependent.org/tag/suicide/)
- [trauma](https://in-dependent.org/tag/trauma/)
- [postpartum depression](https://in-dependent.org/tag/postpartum-depression/)
- [miscarriage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/miscarriage/)
- [eating disorders](https://in-dependent.org/tag/eating-disorders/)
- [terminal illness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/terminal-illness/)
- [chronic illness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/chronic-illness/)
- [death](https://in-dependent.org/tag/death/)
- [commitment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/commitment/)
- [hope](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hope/)
- [support](https://in-dependent.org/tag/support/)
- [business conference](https://in-dependent.org/tag/business-conference/)
- [work conference](https://in-dependent.org/tag/work-conference/)
- [healthy drinking](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy-drinking/)
- [introverts](https://in-dependent.org/tag/introverts/)
- [extroverts](https://in-dependent.org/tag/extroverts/)
- [work](https://in-dependent.org/tag/work/)
- [improve](https://in-dependent.org/tag/improve/)
- [pain](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pain/)
- [chronic pain](https://in-dependent.org/tag/chronic-pain/)
- [office](https://in-dependent.org/tag/office/)
- [routines](https://in-dependent.org/tag/routines/)
- [harmony](https://in-dependent.org/tag/harmony/)
- [micro-vacations](https://in-dependent.org/tag/micro-vacations/)
- [hustle](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hustle/)
- [burnout](https://in-dependent.org/tag/burnout/)
- [creativity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/creativity/)
- [productivity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/productivity/)
- [travel](https://in-dependent.org/tag/travel/)
- [micro trips](https://in-dependent.org/tag/micro-trips/)
- [travel trends](https://in-dependent.org/tag/travel-trends/)
- [micro-cation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/micro-cation/)
- [hopelessness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hopelessness/)
- [home front](https://in-dependent.org/tag/home-front/)
- [depression](https://in-dependent.org/tag/depression/)
- [silence](https://in-dependent.org/tag/silence/)
- [suffering](https://in-dependent.org/tag/suffering/)
- [anxiety](https://in-dependent.org/tag/anxiety/)
- [sacrifice](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sacrifice/)
- [overwhelm](https://in-dependent.org/tag/overwhelm/)
- [postpartum stress](https://in-dependent.org/tag/postpartum-stress/)
- [postpartum anxiety](https://in-dependent.org/tag/postpartum-anxiety/)
- [panic attack](https://in-dependent.org/tag/panic-attack/)
- [Multi-tasking](https://in-dependent.org/tag/multi-tasking/)
- [fear](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fear/)
- [insecurity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/insecurity/)
- [surrender](https://in-dependent.org/tag/surrender/)
- [courage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/courage/)
- [reiki](https://in-dependent.org/tag/reiki/)
- [clarity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/clarity/)
- [focus](https://in-dependent.org/tag/focus/)
- [spiritual growth](https://in-dependent.org/tag/spiritual-growth/)
- [alternative healing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/alternative-healing/)
- [coping mechanisms](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coping-mechanisms/)
- [PCS stress](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pcs-stress/)
- [natural healing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/natural-healing/)
- [PTSD](https://in-dependent.org/tag/ptsd/)
- [meals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/meals/)
- [core muscles](https://in-dependent.org/tag/core-muscles/)
- [breathing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/breathing/)
- [exercise](https://in-dependent.org/tag/exercise/)
- [PCSing](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pcsing/)
- [motivation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/motivation/)
- [coach](https://in-dependent.org/tag/coach/)
- [progress](https://in-dependent.org/tag/progress/)
- [Eat with Purpose](https://in-dependent.org/tag/eat-with-purpose/)
- [Grace](https://in-dependent.org/tag/grace/)
- [msws19](https://in-dependent.org/tag/msws19/)
- [Military Spouse Wellness Summit](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-spouse-wellness-summit/)
- [happiness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/happiness/)
- [lessons](https://in-dependent.org/tag/lessons/)
- [pelvic floor health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pelvic-floor-health/)
- [diastasic recti](https://in-dependent.org/tag/diastasic-recti/)
- [pregnancy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pregnancy/)
- [postpartum](https://in-dependent.org/tag/postpartum/)
- [incontinence](https://in-dependent.org/tag/incontinence/)
- [statistics](https://in-dependent.org/tag/statistics/)
- [military hometown](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-hometown/)
- [Farmer's Market Finds](https://in-dependent.org/tag/farmers-market-finds/)
- [farmers market](https://in-dependent.org/tag/farmers-market/)
- [hospitality](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hospitality/)
- [roadtrip](https://in-dependent.org/tag/roadtrip/)
- [PCS](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pcs/)
- [road trip](https://in-dependent.org/tag/road-trip/)
- [new year](https://in-dependent.org/tag/new-year/)
- [healthy habits](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy-habits/)
- [Halloween](https://in-dependent.org/tag/halloween/)
- [Entrees](https://in-dependent.org/tag/entrees/)
- [United Through Reading](https://in-dependent.org/tag/united-through-reading/)
- [#MilSpoSelfCare](https://in-dependent.org/tag/milsposelfcare/)
- [wellness wednesday](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness-wednesday/)
- [kids](https://in-dependent.org/tag/kids/)
- [sun protection](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sun-protection/)
- [tanning](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tanning/)
- [spray tan](https://in-dependent.org/tag/spray-tan/)
- [detox](https://in-dependent.org/tag/detox/)
- [April Fools](https://in-dependent.org/tag/april-fools/)
- [makeup](https://in-dependent.org/tag/makeup/)
- [happily ever after](https://in-dependent.org/tag/happily-ever-after/)
- [msws16](https://in-dependent.org/tag/msws16/)
- [backtoschool](https://in-dependent.org/tag/backtoschool/)
- [breakfast](https://in-dependent.org/tag/breakfast/)
- [school](https://in-dependent.org/tag/school/)
- [The MilSpo's Guide to SelfCare](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-milspos-guide-to-selfcare/)
- [#IDRunARace](https://in-dependent.org/tag/idrunarace/)
- [running challenge](https://in-dependent.org/tag/running-challenge/)
- [changing body](https://in-dependent.org/tag/changing-body/)
- [fashion](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fashion/)
- [wardobe](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wardobe/)
- [self-esteem](https://in-dependent.org/tag/self-esteem/)
- [beach](https://in-dependent.org/tag/beach/)
- [book club](https://in-dependent.org/tag/book-club/)
- [reading](https://in-dependent.org/tag/reading/)
- [reading list](https://in-dependent.org/tag/reading-list/)
- [summer](https://in-dependent.org/tag/summer/)
- [care package](https://in-dependent.org/tag/care-package/)
- [carepackage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/carepackage/)
- [downrange](https://in-dependent.org/tag/downrange/)
- [EWG](https://in-dependent.org/tag/ewg/)
- [skin care](https://in-dependent.org/tag/skin-care/)
- [why campaign](https://in-dependent.org/tag/why-campaign/)
- [advocating](https://in-dependent.org/tag/advocating/)
- [cancer](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cancer/)
- [healthcare](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthcare/)
- [ovarian cancer](https://in-dependent.org/tag/ovarian-cancer/)
- [Tricare](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tricare/)
- [tea](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tea/)
- [wellness routine](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness-routine/)
- [Hello Mamas](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hello-mamas/)
- [Ft Riley](https://in-dependent.org/tag/ft-riley/)
- [InDependent But Not Alone](https://in-dependent.org/tag/independent-but-not-alone/)
- [Programs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/programs/)
- [europe](https://in-dependent.org/tag/europe/)
- [Fitness for Everybody](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fitness-for-everybody/)
- [stretching](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stretching/)
- [Kathy Stoddard Torrey](https://in-dependent.org/tag/kathy-stoddard-torrey/)
- [SelfCare Program](https://in-dependent.org/tag/selfcare-program/)
- [The Power of Choice](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-power-of-choice/)
- [Big Announcement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/big-announcement/)
- [Giveaway](https://in-dependent.org/tag/giveaway/)
- [Tapfer Consulting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/tapfer-consulting/)
- [Milso](https://in-dependent.org/tag/milso/)
- [comfort zone](https://in-dependent.org/tag/comfort-zone/)
- [MSWS15](https://in-dependent.org/tag/msws15/)
- [Invest in Yourself](https://in-dependent.org/tag/invest-in-yourself/)
- [the calmer life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/the-calmer-life/)
- [Deployment Chronicles](https://in-dependent.org/tag/deployment-chronicles/)
- [deployment/mission related stress](https://in-dependent.org/tag/deploymentmission-related-stress/)
- [during deployment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/during-deployment/)
- [National Dog Day](https://in-dependent.org/tag/national-dog-day/)
- [Pet friendly](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pet-friendly/)
- [nature](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nature/)
- [cleaning](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cleaning/)
- [Every Day LIfe](https://in-dependent.org/tag/every-day-life/)
- [celebrate success](https://in-dependent.org/tag/celebrate-success/)
- [longterm goals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/longterm-goals/)
- [shortterm goals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/shortterm-goals/)
- [Army Wife](https://in-dependent.org/tag/army-wife/)
- [entrepreneur](https://in-dependent.org/tag/entrepreneur/)
- [R Riveter](https://in-dependent.org/tag/r-riveter/)
- [Priorities](https://in-dependent.org/tag/priorities/)
- [Feeling Isolated](https://in-dependent.org/tag/feeling-isolated/)
- [Loneliness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/loneliness/)
- [physical health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/physical-health/)
- [real life](https://in-dependent.org/tag/real-life/)
- [Composting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/composting/)
- [Environment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/environment/)
- [rental homesteading](https://in-dependent.org/tag/rental-homesteading/)
- [kitchen](https://in-dependent.org/tag/kitchen/)
- [renting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/renting/)
- [reintegration](https://in-dependent.org/tag/reintegration/)
- [Dress to Impress](https://in-dependent.org/tag/dress-to-impress/)
- [military balls](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-balls/)
- [comparison](https://in-dependent.org/tag/comparison/)
- [favorite things](https://in-dependent.org/tag/favorite-things/)
- [weekend inspiration](https://in-dependent.org/tag/weekend-inspiration/)
- [wish list](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wish-list/)
- [apps](https://in-dependent.org/tag/apps/)
- [dogs](https://in-dependent.org/tag/dogs/)
- [valentine's day](https://in-dependent.org/tag/valentines-day/)
- [communities](https://in-dependent.org/tag/communities/)
- [commissary](https://in-dependent.org/tag/commissary/)
- [nontoxic](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nontoxic/)
- [shopping list](https://in-dependent.org/tag/shopping-list/)
- [digestion](https://in-dependent.org/tag/digestion/)
- [guthealth](https://in-dependent.org/tag/guthealth/)
- [best of](https://in-dependent.org/tag/best-of/)
- [top posts](https://in-dependent.org/tag/top-posts/)
- [menu](https://in-dependent.org/tag/menu/)
- [grief](https://in-dependent.org/tag/grief/)
- [loss](https://in-dependent.org/tag/loss/)
- [virtual retreat](https://in-dependent.org/tag/virtual-retreat/)
- [Make It Your Own](https://in-dependent.org/tag/make-it-your-own/)
- [breast cancer](https://in-dependent.org/tag/breast-cancer/)
- [mission statement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mission-statement/)
- [Making It Your Own](https://in-dependent.org/tag/making-it-your-own/)
- [Preparing for Deployment](https://in-dependent.org/tag/preparing-for-deployment/)
- [book review](https://in-dependent.org/tag/book-review/)
- [Hiking](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hiking/)
- [#summermotivation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/summermotivation/)
- [Saturday special](https://in-dependent.org/tag/saturday-special/)
- [wellness plan](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness-plan/)
- [our favorite things](https://in-dependent.org/tag/our-favorite-things/)
- [Serving Your Country, Serving Yourself](https://in-dependent.org/tag/serving-your-country-serving-yourself/)
- [DIY Beauty Arsenal](https://in-dependent.org/tag/diy-beauty-arsenal/)
- [manifesto](https://in-dependent.org/tag/manifesto/)
- [smart goals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/smart-goals/)
- [sugar savvy challenge](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sugar-savvy-challenge-2/)
- [fitness goals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fitness-goals/)
- [nutrition goals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/nutrition-goals/)
- [sleep goals](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sleep-goals/)
- [men's health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mens-health/)
- [maintain fitness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/maintain-fitness/)
- [military child](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-child/)
- [advocate for child](https://in-dependent.org/tag/advocate-for-child/)
- [painful sex](https://in-dependent.org/tag/painful-sex/)
- [pelvic floor therapist](https://in-dependent.org/tag/pelvic-floor-therapist/)
- [dyspareunia](https://in-dependent.org/tag/dyspareunia/)
- [communicate with your partner](https://in-dependent.org/tag/communicate-with-your-partner/)
- [cope](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cope/)
- [diversity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/diversity/)
- [finances](https://in-dependent.org/tag/finances/)
- [automotive expenses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/automotive-expenses/)
- [life insurance](https://in-dependent.org/tag/life-insurance/)
- [wills](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wills/)
- [power of attorney](https://in-dependent.org/tag/power-of-attorney/)
- [military retirement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-retirement/)
- [modern military spouse](https://in-dependent.org/tag/modern-military-spouse/)
- [encouragement military spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/encouragement-military-spouses/)
- [motivation military spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/motivation-military-spouses/)
- [Lack of control](https://in-dependent.org/tag/lack-of-control/)
- [Finding motivation](https://in-dependent.org/tag/finding-motivation/)
- [Decision fatigue](https://in-dependent.org/tag/decision-fatigue/)
- [Challenge yourself](https://in-dependent.org/tag/challenge-yourself/)
- [healthy transition](https://in-dependent.org/tag/healthy-transition/)
- [Retirement](https://in-dependent.org/tag/retirement/)
- [IWS21](https://in-dependent.org/tag/iws21/)
- [moving with children](https://in-dependent.org/tag/moving-with-children/)
- [communicating with children](https://in-dependent.org/tag/communicating-with-children/)
- [military teen](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-teen/)
- [military parenting](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-parenting/)
- [military healthcare](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-healthcare/)
- [Doula](https://in-dependent.org/tag/doula/)
- [Military parent](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-parent/)
- [childbirth](https://in-dependent.org/tag/childbirth/)
- [blended family](https://in-dependent.org/tag/blended-family/)
- [blended military family](https://in-dependent.org/tag/blended-military-family/)
- [military stepparent](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-stepparent/)
- [aging parents](https://in-dependent.org/tag/aging-parents/)
- [Holistic Wellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/holistic-wellness/)
- [DBT](https://in-dependent.org/tag/dbt/)
- [Physical Wellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/physical-wellness/)
- [postpartum psychosis](https://in-dependent.org/tag/postpartum-psychosis/)
- [therapy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/therapy/)
- [mental health therapy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mental-health-therapy/)
- [support network](https://in-dependent.org/tag/support-network/)
- [Dry January](https://in-dependent.org/tag/dry-january/)
- [celebrate everyday moments](https://in-dependent.org/tag/celebrate-everyday-moments/)
- [inspiration](https://in-dependent.org/tag/inspiration/)
- [vision board](https://in-dependent.org/tag/vision-board/)
- [routine](https://in-dependent.org/tag/routine/)
- [stress relief](https://in-dependent.org/tag/stress-relief/)
- [hiking in winter](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hiking-in-winter/)
- [family adventure](https://in-dependent.org/tag/family-adventure/)
- [family hikes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/family-hikes/)
- [cold weather preparedness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/cold-weather-preparedness/)
- [trail safety](https://in-dependent.org/tag/trail-safety/)
- [hiking snacks](https://in-dependent.org/tag/hiking-snacks/)
- [military PCS](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-pcs/)
- [winter roadtrip](https://in-dependent.org/tag/winter-roadtrip/)
- [Marriage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/marriage/)
- [Intimacy](https://in-dependent.org/tag/intimacy/)
- [ISW23 recap](https://in-dependent.org/tag/isw23-recap/)
- [ISW23](https://in-dependent.org/tag/isw23/)
- [FSGLI](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fsgli/)
- [SBP](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sbp/)
- [Post 9-11 GI Bill](https://in-dependent.org/tag/post-9-11-gi-bill/)
- [emergency preparedness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/emergency-preparedness/)
- [IWS23](https://in-dependent.org/tag/iws23/)
- [IWS23 recap](https://in-dependent.org/tag/iws23-recap/)
- [sexual health](https://in-dependent.org/tag/sexual-health/)
- [disaster supplies](https://in-dependent.org/tag/disaster-supplies/)
- [laughter](https://in-dependent.org/tag/laughter/)
- [adversity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/adversity/)
- [financial wellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/financial-wellness/)
- [IRA](https://in-dependent.org/tag/ira/)
- [military benefits](https://in-dependent.org/tag/military-benefits/)
- [food storage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/food-storage/)
- [produce storage](https://in-dependent.org/tag/produce-storage/)
- [Month of the Military Child](https://in-dependent.org/tag/month-of-the-military-child/)
- [aging](https://in-dependent.org/tag/aging/)
- [age and fitness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/age-and-fitness/)
- [Fitness transitions](https://in-dependent.org/tag/fitness-transitions/)
- [exercise recovery](https://in-dependent.org/tag/exercise-recovery/)
- [age and exercise](https://in-dependent.org/tag/age-and-exercise/)
- [belonging](https://in-dependent.org/tag/belonging/)
- [challenges](https://in-dependent.org/tag/challenges/)
- [self-discovery](https://in-dependent.org/tag/self-discovery/)
- [Enneagram](https://in-dependent.org/tag/enneagram/)
- [open communication](https://in-dependent.org/tag/open-communication/)
- [wellness summit](https://in-dependent.org/tag/wellness-summit/)
- [financial habits](https://in-dependent.org/tag/financial-habits/)
- [first responder spouses](https://in-dependent.org/tag/first-responder-spouses/)
- [relationship](https://in-dependent.org/tag/relationship/)
- [friendship](https://in-dependent.org/tag/friendship/)
- [connections](https://in-dependent.org/tag/connections/)
- [interviews](https://in-dependent.org/tag/interviews/)
- [resilience](https://in-dependent.org/tag/resilience/)
- [authenticity](https://in-dependent.org/tag/authenticity/)
- [interview](https://in-dependent.org/tag/interview/)
- [entrepreneurship](https://in-dependent.org/tag/entrepreneurship/)
- [mindfullness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/mindfullness/)
- [changes](https://in-dependent.org/tag/changes/)
- [occupational wellness](https://in-dependent.org/tag/occupational-wellness/)
- [declutter](https://in-dependent.org/tag/declutter/)
- [network](https://in-dependent.org/tag/network/)
- [struggle](https://in-dependent.org/tag/struggle/)
- [Perspective](https://in-dependent.org/tag/perspective/)

## Resource Types

- [Download](https://in-dependent.org/resource-type/download/)
- [E-Book](https://in-dependent.org/resource-type/e-book/)
- [Book](https://in-dependent.org/resource-type/book/)

## Topics

- [PCSing](https://in-dependent.org/topic/pcsing/)
- [Home](https://in-dependent.org/topic/home/)
- [Health](https://in-dependent.org/topic/health/)
- [Wellness](https://in-dependent.org/topic/wellness/)
- [Environmental](https://in-dependent.org/topic/environmental/)
- [Green](https://in-dependent.org/topic/green/)
- [Relationships](https://in-dependent.org/topic/relationships/)
- [Self-Care](https://in-dependent.org/topic/self-care/)
- [Time Management](https://in-dependent.org/topic/time-management/)
- [Parenting](https://in-dependent.org/topic/parenting/)
- [Military Marriage](https://in-dependent.org/topic/military-marriage/)
- [Deployment](https://in-dependent.org/topic/deployment/)
- [Friendships](https://in-dependent.org/topic/friendships/)
- [Eating](https://in-dependent.org/topic/eating/)
- [Women](https://in-dependent.org/topic/women/)
- [Fitness](https://in-dependent.org/topic/fitness/)
- [Simplicity](https://in-dependent.org/topic/simplicity/)
- [Money Management](https://in-dependent.org/topic/money-management/)
- [Yoga](https://in-dependent.org/topic/yoga/)
- [meals](https://in-dependent.org/topic/meals/)
- [pcs](https://in-dependent.org/topic/pcs/)
- [nutrition](https://in-dependent.org/topic/nutrition/)

## Product categories

- [T-Shirts](https://in-dependent.org/product-category/t-shirts/)
- [Mugs](https://in-dependent.org/product-category/mugs/)