Tag Archives: self-care routines

What I Eat When I Don’t Feel Like Cooking (Easy Meals for One That Actually Work)

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What I Actually Eat on Low-Energy Days (When I Don’t Feel Like Cooking)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, including a partnership with DoorDash. If you use my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Cooking for one or two isn’t always as easy as it sounds.

If I go to the supermarket and make a full recipe, I feel like I’m eating the same thing for a week. Not everything freezes well, and don’t even get me started on ingredients. A recipe calls for one carrot… but I have to buy a whole bag. Or spend more money for pre-cut veggies just so they don’t sit in the fridge getting slimy.

So at one point, I decided I was going to try every meal delivery service out there. I’ve probably tried at least 10.

Some of them send fresh ingredients with the perfect portions – one carrot, two scallions – which sounds great in theory… but you still have to prep, chop, cook, and clean. And let’s be honest… not every day is a “I feel like cooking” kind of day.

Then I tried the fully prepackaged meals. Easy, yes… but it felt like I was eating a TV dinner every night.

So over time, I found what actually works for me – and now I rotate between three go-to options depending on my energy level.

1. When I Want Easy and Good: Tovala

I am genuinely obsessed with my Tovala oven. It’s a permanent fixture on my counter – I use it every single day.

Whether I’m making a Tovala meal or cooking something on my own, it’s just easy.

The meals themselves? You literally:

  • scan a code
  • press a button
  • and it cooks everything perfectly

No guesswork. No overcooking. No effort.

One night I made steak, crispy fries, and veggies and it came out like a restaurant meal, and I barely did anything.

What I love is that it’s not just for their meals. The oven itself has:

  • steam
  • air fry
  • bake
  • broil
  • toast
  • reheat

I’ve used it to reheat leftovers, toast bread, and I even made oatmeal using the steam function.

They also have 35+ chef-crafted meals each week, and most are perfectly portioned for one person (with some options for two).

After trying so many meal services… this is the one that actually stuck. I’ve been using it for over a year and have no desire to stop.

 You can check out Tovala here

2. When I Want Zero Effort: True Nature Meats

Another favorite of mine is True Nature Meats, and this one is all about heat and eat.

Everything comes:

  • fully cooked
  • chef-seasoned
  • flash-frozen

I recently heated up their pulled pork, threw it on a roll, made some sweet potato fries on the side… and it was SO good.

What I really like:

  • responsibly raised
  • antibiotic-free
  • hormone-free
  • gluten-free & soy-free

Plus, everything is vacuum-sealed and can stay frozen for up to 6 months, which makes it super convenient to keep on hand.

This is one of those options where I don’t have to think, I just grab something from the freezer and I’m good.

Check True Nature Meats here
Use Code: MUAYTHAIJODY15 for $15 off

3. When I Don’t Feel Like Doing Anything: DoorDash

I recently partnered with DoorDash and it honestly fits perfectly into how I already eat on low-energy days…I’m not even going to pretend… I use DoorDash… All. The. Time.

Some might call it lazy, I call it efficient

There are just days where:

  • I don’t want to cook
  • I don’t want to prep
  • I don’t want to leave the house

And DoorDash solves all of that.

Lately I’ve been obsessed with Wendy’s (bacon cheese baked potato), and honestly… Wawa is another go-to because they have everything, and their food is actually good.

But what I love most is that it’s not just fast food.

You can order from:

  • local restaurants
  • grocery stores
  • convenience stores
  • even last-minute essentials

So whether I need a full meal or just random things I forgot at the store… it’s all there.

You can get 40% off your first DoorDash order (up to $10 off $15+) & $0 delivery fees
Use code JODY40NEW 

My Real-Life System

At this point, I’ve stopped trying to force myself into one way of eating.

Instead, I rotate between what I need in the moment:

  • Tovala → when I want something easy but still feels like a real meal

  • True Nature Meats → when I want quick, no-prep food at home

  • DoorDash → when I don’t feel like doing anything at all

Some people might call it lazy…

I call it quick, easy, and realistic

And honestly, having options like this has made my life so much easier.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you’re someone who:

  • lives alone or cooks for two
  • gets tired of eating the same thing all week
  • doesn’t always have the energy to cook
  • …this kind of setup just makes sense.

It’s not about being perfect, it’s about finding what actually works for your life.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation : My Experience with the Zenowell Device

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A Beginner’s Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation : My Experience with the Zenowell Device

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use and believe in.

What Is the Vagus Nerve and Why Does It Matter?

The vagus nerve is one of the most important communication pathways between the brain and body. It helps regulate heart rate, digestion, relaxation, and the “rest-and-digest” side of the nervous system. Because of its role in calming the body, the vagus nerve has become a major focus in wellness conversations – especially for those looking to support stress management and create more grounding routines.

One of the ways people explore vagus nerve support is through vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), a technique that uses gentle electrical impulses, vibration, breathwork, or temperature changes to activate the calming side of the nervous system. While clinical VNS devices require medical supervision, consumer wellness devices offer a more accessible, at-home way to incorporate vagus-focused practices into daily routines.

Why I Wanted to Try a Vagus Nerve Device

I’ve been paying more attention to nervous system regulation, slow living, and tools that make my evenings feel calmer and more grounded. I kept seeing discussions about the vagus nerve paired with breathwork, cold exposure, and mindfulness, but I was curious about how a device might fit into my routine.

That curiosity led me to the Zenowell Vagus Nerve Stimulator, a handheld, premium wellness device designed to support vagus-focused practices at home.

What Is the Zenowell Vagus Nerve Stimulator?

The Zenowell device is a non-invasive handheld tool that uses electrical micro-pulses to gently stimulate areas commonly associated with vagus nerve access points. It’s designed for home use and allows you to explore vagus-supporting routines without medical equipment or complicated setups.

Key Features

  • Adjustable intensity settings

  • Handheld intuitive design

  • Targeted placement guided by reference points

  • Sleek, travel-friendly size

  • Rechargeable with multiple session modes

These kinds of features are helpful for people seeking a structured way to experiment with vagus-nerve–focused wellness tools.

How Vagus Nerve Stimulation Supports Relaxation

Vagus nerve stimulation isn’t about quick fixes – it’s about supporting the way the body transitions into a calmer state. Many people incorporate vagus stimulation into routines such as:

      • evening wind-down rituals
  • breathwork sessions
  • meditation or journaling
  • warm baths or low-light environments
  • morning grounding practices

The idea is to gently encourage the body into a more relaxed mode, similar to other mindfulness techniques like slow breathing, gentle stretching, or humming.

My Experience Using the Zenowell Device

I found the Zenowell device most helpful when I paired it with habits I already enjoy – like slow evening routines, dim lighting, and quiet moments before bed. The handheld design made it easy to use without overthinking it, and the adjustable settings allowed me to find a level that felt comfortable and soothing.

I used it consistently during calm moments of my day rather than expecting immediate changes or results. It’s more of a supportive tool, like a diffuser, a journaling practice, or a grounding ritual.

Who Might Enjoy a Vagus Nerve Wellness Device?

A high-end wellness device like this may appeal to:

  • people exploring nervous system regulation

  • those who enjoy structured wellness routines

  • individuals who prefer tech-based tools

  • people who want a guided approach to relaxation

  • anyone curious about new wellness innovations

It’s also a good option for people who already invest in wellness tools like red-light devices, massage guns, meditation apps, or breathwork practices.

More Accessible Ways to Support the Vagus Nerve

Not everyone wants or needs a high-end wellness device, and that’s okay. There are many simple, low-cost ways to support the vagus nerve and create a calming routine using tools you may already have or can easily add to your home.

Below are a few approachable practices, along with free options and affordable products that pair well with nervous-system-focused routines.

1. Breathwork

One of the simplest ways to stimulate a relaxation response is through slow, intentional breathing. Practices like extended exhales, box breathing, or paced breathing can help signal the body to slow down.

Free resource:

• Box breathing tutorial (YouTube has thousands of options)

Products to pair with breathwork:

• Breathwork Book – A beginner-friendly guide to simple techniques.

• Meditation Timer or App – Helps keep a steady pace during sessions.

• Aromatherapy Diffuser – Supports a calm environment during practice.

2. Cold or Temperature Contrast

Temperature changes can play a role in calming the body. Something as simple as cool water on the face or a chilled gel mask can help you reset.

Free options:

• Splashing cool water on your face

• Stepping outside into fresh air for a moment

Products to enhance this practice:

• Ice Roller – Great for face and neck cooling.

• Gel Eye Mask – Can be chilled or warmed for contrast.

• Stainless Steel Cooling Globes – Easy to store and use daily.

3. Gentle Vibration or Humming

Sound and vibration are often explored in nervous-system-supportive routines. Simple humming, chanting, or light vibration tools can create a soothing sensory experience.

Free options:

• Humming or singing softly

• Playing low-frequency calming music

Product add-ons:

• Mini Vibration Tool – A small, targeted vibration device.

• Sound Bowl or Tuning Fork – Creates gentle, calming tones.

4. Movement

Light movement is an easy way to support a calm body. Gentle stretching, yoga flows, or even short walks can help shift your energy.

Free options:

• A 10-minute stretching routine

• A short outdoor walk

Helpful products for a movement routine:

• Yoga Mat – For stretching or grounding practices.

• Acupressure Mat – Promotes relaxation post-stretch.

• Foam Roller – Helps release tension in the shoulders and back.

5. Mindfulness Rituals

Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple rituals like journaling, grounding exercises, or quiet reflection can help regulate daily stress.

Free options:

• 5-minute check-in journaling

• Guided meditations from YouTube

• A quiet moment with low lighting

Tools that complement mindfulness:

• “Don’t Let Anybody Dull  Your Sparkle” Journal – A dedicated space for reflections and calm routines.

• Meditation Cushion – Supports posture during mindfulness practices.

• Soft Lighting or Flameless Candle – Helps set a relaxing mood.

Why These Tools Matter

These approaches can complement device-based routines or stand completely on their own if you prefer non-tech options. Whether you’re experimenting with breathwork, exploring calming rituals, or simply creating a cozy environment, these small habits add up and support a more intentional, grounded state.

Final Thoughts

Exploring vagus nerve stimulation has been an interesting addition to my wellness routine. For me, the Zenowell device isn’t meant to “fix” anything – it’s more about creating a ritual that signals calm, grounding, and intentional rest. If you’re curious about vagus nerve practices or want a structured tool to support your relaxation routine, you can learn more about the Zenowell device here and use my code LIFEBYJODY for a 15% discount.

 

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