Balance is such an important part of life, yet it’s something I’ve always found challenging. Whether it’s juggling work and rest, movement and recovery, or nutrient-dense meals and indulgent treats, finding a way to make everything fit together can be tricky.
One of the areas where I’ve struggled most is planning ahead when it comes to food. I can’t count the number of times I’ve finished teaching a class, suddenly realized I was starving, and ended up grabbing something quick and easy—usually not the most nutritious option. (I’m looking at you, Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Quesadilla!)
A bit of honesty here: I tend to forget to eat for long periods at a time (thanks, ADHD) and can go from hungry to hangry QUICKLY.
But recently, my wonderful future mother-in-law gifted me a new lunch bag, and it’s been a game-changer! Instead of scrambling to find something last minute, I’ve started bringing food with me to the studio, which means I’m actually hitting my eating goals most days without relying on fast food. Don’t get me wrong—I still let myself indulge in my favorites.
Once a week, I just have to stop next door at Freida’s for one of their fresh, absolutely delicious donuts (seriously, if you haven’t gone yet, go!). But having balanced, nourishing meals on hand has helped me feel better, keep my energy up, and not let hunger make my choices for me.
Most days, I pack simple, protein-dense wraps with lean lunch meat and veggies (balanced out with a Coke Zero or Monster, of course!). But lately, I’ve been remembering just how much I love overnight oats. They’re quick, easy, filling, and can be prepped in bulk—perfect for those days when I’m bouncing between classes and need something reliable. Plus, they’re packed with protein, fiber, and complex carbs to keep me going!
Here’s my current favorite overnight oats recipe—a mocha-inspired version that combines cocoa powder and instant coffee for a creamy, energizing breakfast (or snack!). I always make multiple batches at once and store them in jars or Tupperware for a quick grab-and-go meal for those 6am mornings when i don't feel like making a lunch I forgot to make the night before.
You can even freeze overnight oats, though if you plan to do that, I recommend using a little less liquid to prevent them from getting too watery after thawing.
Mocha Overnight Oats
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
¼ cup Greek yogurt (My latest batch I used a vanilla greek yogurt and skipped adding extra sweetener)
1 tsp cocoa powder
½ tsp instant coffee (adjust for more or less coffee flavor)
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:1 tbsp nut butter (for extra protein and healthy fats)
1 tbsp chocolate chips (for a little indulgence!)
1 tbsp chopped nuts (for crunch and added nutrients)
Instructions: Mix oats, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and salt. (I like to make several servings at once)
Add milk, Greek yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract, then stir well.
Put in your jars or small, portable storage containers of choice and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
When you're ready to eat, give it a good stir and add toppings if you want.
Enjoy straight from the fridge or warm it up if you don't like cold oats!
The key takeaway? Balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about sustainability. Bringing food with me to the studio helps me meet my nutrition needs without feeling deprived or restricted. I still let myself enjoy the foods I love, but I also make sure to have easy, nourishing options available so I’m not caught off guard by hunger.
Planning ahead, even just a little, can make all the difference in feeling fueled, satisfied, and ready to take on the day.
So if you’re like me and struggle with last-minute food decisions, try prepping something like these Mocha Overnight Oats ahead of time. Your future hangry self will thank you!
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