325 // A Season of Preparation | What Advent Really Means for Your Faith & Fitness

Pause & prayer — two simple holy habits that can transform the way you move through your day.In this week’s episode, we lean into the power of stopping, breathing, and reconnecting with the One who gives us strength, guidance, and peace.If you’ve been feeling rushed, scattered, tired, or spiritually dry… this is your gentle invitation to slow down and come back home to prayer.Inside today’s episode:✨ Why “pause” is the hinge for ALL your holy habits✨ How prayer builds spiritual and emotional resilience✨ The connection between stillness, hormones, stress, and energy✨ A simple Pause & Prayer routine you can use anytime✨ How this holy habit sets the foundation for movement, nutrition, and Scripture✨ Why silence, breath, and presence can deepen your walk with God in minutesThis is your reminder that spiritual growth doesn’t require perfection — just a pause, a breath, and a willing heart.Fit & Fueled by Faith — where prayer, purpose, and holy habits meet.Download The Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

Welcome to the first episode of 2026!Today we’re starting the New Year with a Christ-centered mindset — focusing on purpose, clarity, and holy habits that transform your body, mind, and soul.Inside this episode:✨ How to invite God into your new year✨ Choosing a word + verse for 2026✨ Healthy habits that honor your body✨ How to build faith-filled routines✨ Why intention > resolution✨ A prayer to begin the year strongLet’s step into 2026 with discipline, peace, and God’s plan at the center.Scripture:Proverbs 16:3Proverbs 3:5–6Psalm 37:5Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits https://bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

💜 Faithfully Fit Through Advent | Episode 5: Gratitude, Growth and Renewal!  In this final episode of the Advent & Christmas series, we’re ending the year with a heart full of gratitude, growth, and renewal. Together we’ll: ✨ Look back with thankfulness ✨ Recognize the spiritual growth God brought this year ✨ Release old weight and embrace spiritual renewal ✨ Tie in the hope, love, joy, and peace of the Advent season ✨ Prepare our hearts for the fresh start ahead Take a deep breath, pause, and reflect with me as we close this year with intention and faith. Bible verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:16 Philippians 1:6 Romans 12:2 Download Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits https://bit.ly/7holyhabits 📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

💜 Faithfully Fit Through Advent | Episode 4: The True meaning of Christmas This episode ties the entire Advent journey together — and prepares us for the celebration of Jesus, the Light of the World, born to bring peace to our hearts and hope to our lives. Take a breath. Light your candle. Let’s finish Advent with purpose, presence, and peace. 🕯️✨💝 📖 Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” 🎙️ This is Episode 4 in our Advent series: The true meaning of Christmas | How to Keep your Peace for the Season! Next Week: Reflecting on the Year — Gratitude, Growth, and New Beginnings. 👉 Subscribe + turn on notifications so you don’t miss the final episode of the year and series! 📌 Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits 📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

💜 Faithfully Fit Through Advent | Episode 3: Healthy & Holy Holidays This week, we’re diving into how to nourish your body and spirit during the holiday season without guilt or overwhelm. Learn practical tips for maintaining balance, enjoying holiday treats mindfully, and embracing wellness with grace and faith. 📖 Scripture: Philippians 4:4 — “Rejoice in the Lord always. 💜 What You’ll Learn: •How to enjoy holiday treats mindfully and without guilt. •Practical wellness tips to stay balanced and healthy. •Integrating faith and gratitude into your holiday wellness. •Encouragement to embrace the season with joy and peace. 🎙️ This is Episode 3 in our Advent series: Healthy & Holy Holidays — Nourish Your Body Without Guilt or Overwhelm. 🕯️ Next Week: How to Keep your Peace for the Season! 👉 Subscribe + turn on notifications so you don’t miss the rest of this Advent series! 📌 Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits 📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

💜 Faithfully Fit Through Advent | Episode 2: Finding Hope When You Feel Weary This week of Advent is all about HOPE — the kind that doesn’t depend on circumstances but rests in the promises of God.   In this episode, Stacey shares how to find renewal for your body, mind, and spirit when you’re feeling tired, stressed, or spiritually empty. Discover how faith, rest, and small daily habits can bring peace back to your soul this Advent season.   📖 Scripture: Romans 15:13 — “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.”   💜 What You’ll Learn:  • How to find hope when you’re weary or discouraged  • Faith-based self-care through rest and renewal  • How to restore your body and spirit this Advent  • Encouragement for Christian women 40+ seeking peace and balance   🎙️ This is Episode 2 in my Advent series: Faithfully Fit Through Advent — Prepare Your Heart, Nourish Your Body, Renew Your Spirit. 🕯️ Next Week: Nourish Your Body Without Guilt or Overwhelm! 👉 Subscribe + turn on notifications so you don’t miss the rest of this Advent series! 📌 Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits 📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

✨ Faithfully Fit Through Advent | Episode 1: A Season of Preparation ✨ Advent isn’t just about waiting for Christmas — it’s about preparing your heart, body, and soul for the coming of Jesus. In this episode, I’m sharing how to enter this season with peace, purpose, and presence — instead of stress and hustle. Together, we’ll talk about what Advent really means, how to prepare spiritually and physically, and how to create simple, holy habits that help you feel grounded and renewed. 💜 What You’ll Learn: •The real meaning of Advent and why it matters •How to prepare your heart and habits for Jesus •Simple faith + fitness practices to bring peace this season •A gentle mindset reset for your body and soul 📖 Scripture: Mark 1:3 — “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths.” 🎙️ This episode kicks off my new 5-part series: Faithfully Fit Through Advent — Prepare Your Heart, Nourish Your Body, Renew Your Spirit. 🕯️ Next Week: Finding Hope When You Feel Weary — Rest, Renewal, and God’s Promises 👉 Subscribe + turn on notifications so you don’t miss the rest of this Advent series! 📌 Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits 📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries 📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfu... 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

Feeling like your hair, brows, or skin just aren’t the same lately? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, I’m sharing what’s been working for me — from my favorite clean beauty products to faith-based reminders that help you feel confident in the skin God gave you. 💕 We’ll talk about what’s really happening to our hair, skin, and nails in our 40s and 50s, how to nourish them from the inside out, and why confidence isn’t about perfection — it’s about purpose. ✨ Topics Covered: • Midlife hair and brow thinning (and what helps them grow back) • Skin care that supports healthy aging, naturally • My daily confidence + faith routine • The connection between hormones, stress, and beauty • Why your worth is never tied to appearance — but to who you are in Christ 💫 Scripture Inspiration: “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” — Psalm 139:14 💖 Products Mentioned: • Shea Moisture - Walgreens Castor oil for brows + lashes    • Briogeo - Sephora Clean shampoo + conditioner hair https://www.briogeohair.com/products/briogeo-superfoods-mango-cherry-superfoods-hair-packSky organics coconut oil for skin https://amzn.to/4qcdxVHMagnesium BIOptimizers https://shrb.io/home/euaaqkdqSilk bonnet - lily silk https://amzn.to/3WKjMSSYuka app - Yuka - Food & Cosmetic ScannerDownload Free Guide- https://bit.ly/Hairplusmoreguide🎧 Listen now and be reminded that your beauty, confidence, and glow all start from a place of faith and self-care.📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

Are you ready to create success the God-centered way? 🌸 In this episode of Fit and Fueled by Faith, I share how to align your morning routine, habits, and heart with God’s plan so you can live a life full of purpose, peace, and productivity. We dive into my 7 Holy Habits — a faith-filled framework designed to help Catholic women:✨ Start your day with gratitude and praise✨ Pray, meditate, and listen to God’s voice✨ Move your body in worship and thanksgiving✨ Read Scripture and reflect on God’s Word✨ Journal your prayers, reflections, and inspirations✨ Fill your environment with uplifting sound✨ Eat mindfully and invite God into every part of your day Every small step you take in the morning builds spiritual discipline, confidence, and momentum to achieve your goals, dreams, and desires — all while staying rooted in Christ. 💛 Whether you’re seeking more focus, balance, or daily peace, this episode will give you practical tips and spiritual guidance to start living your best life God’s way. 📌 Resources Mentioned in This Episode: • Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https://bit.ly/7holyhabits ⸻ 💡 Key Takeaways You’ll Learn: • How to redefine success as a Catholic woman • The 7 Holy Habits to start your morning with God • How daily practices build faith, discipline, and purpose • Steps to stay consistent even when life gets busy ⸻ 🙏 Scripture & Inspiration: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3 “Be still and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries 📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.

Feeling drained no matter how much sleep you get? 😴 In this episode, we’re breaking down the real reasons perimenopause can leave you exhausted — from hormone shifts to hidden lifestyle triggers. You’ll also get simple, faith-fueled steps to restore your energy and feel more like yourself again.✨ What you’ll learn:- The 3 biggest hormone shifts that cause fatigue- How nutrition + daily movement help fight energy dips- A faith-based mindset shift that renews your strength💌 Free Resource: Grab your copy of 7 Holy Habits for Catholic Women here ➝ [insert link]📲 Stay connected:Instagram ➝ @FitAndFueledByFaith 👉 If this episode helped you, hit like, subscribe, and share it with a friend who needs encouragement today!📬 Get devotionals + encouragement every week: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Follow along on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithDownload the Free 7 Holy Habits Guide: https:// bit.ly/7holyhabits📬 Read more reflections on Church Girl diaries: https://substack.com/@thechurchgirldiaries  📸 Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fitandfueledbyfaith  📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fitandfueledbyfaithFit and Fueled by Faith is a faith and wellness podcast for women over 40 who want to feel strong, energized, and rooted in faith. Hosted by Stacey Ziegler, NASM-CPT, Certified Holistic Health and Life Coach.