When it comes to fitness, most of us focus on intense workouts, strict routines, and pushing ourselves to new limits. But there’s an essential piece of the puzzle we often neglect: rest and recovery. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply trying to stay consistent with your workouts, recovery is the foundation that helps you perform at your best.

I really protect my sleep, and even with two toddlers at home, I still get a solid 7-9 hours each night. The demands of parenting can make it feel like quality sleep is out of reach. However, with some careful planning and deliberate strategies, it is entirely possible.

For over a decade, I’ve made exercise a top priority in my life. But it wasn’t always this way. In my early 20s, I was living the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, playing in a band and making some pretty unhealthy choices. Late nights, junk food, and little to no exercise were the norms for me. I wasn’t focused on my health, and it showed.