As is the case for so many wholefood foodies, Renae’s wellness journey started with poor health – nothing too drastic, but enough to take the shine off life. As a child, Renae suffered from several skin conditions which would flare up at the slightest provocation (too much sun, artificial foods, not enough sleep, the wrong soap, and so on). In adulthood, Renae developed digestive problems and then, at the age of 30, adult acne. Combined, these health challenges left Renae feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable in her body, and she experienced a lot of anxiety about what to eat, when and with whom.

Education proved to be fundamental to Renae’s healing process. Pharmaceutical prescriptions had given Renae little-to-no relief, so she began to investigate natural and ‘alternative’ products and treatments. In gaining her Bachelor of Science and becoming qualified as an Integrated Nutrition Health Coach, Renae began to see how mental and physical health were inextricably linked with range of factors like diet, exercise, sleep, and even whether or not you enjoy eating! Taking a more holistic view of her own health, Renae made incremental changes to her diet and lifestyle and began to heal. Her skin became more manageable, her digestion less problematic, and her acne cleared up. Best of all, Renae found that by treating body and mind with respect and compassion, she began to like herself a lot more, and she was better able to relate with others.

Renae’s healing journey has filled her to overflowing with enthusiasm for sharing the knowledge that she’s spent years collecting, testing, and curating. Through her coaching business Chews Life, Renae now empowers parents and their children to connect the dots between diet, lifestyle, and wellbeing. Renae’s family-orientated approach encompasses meal planning, lunchbox catering, cooking lessons and nutritional plans designed to address presenting conditions.