One of the things I am rebuilding this year is my approach to health & fitness. I have the foundation set, but it's time to better understand the 'how's' and 'why's' of nutrition and biology so that I can figure out what works best for my lifestyle at any given moment.

Another thing that's cool is observing a fellow lady badass growing into her own skin as she creates a business around exactly what I'm looking for!

I met JJ Muenz a couple of years ago and have had a girl crush on her ever since. I asked for some insight into her new biz, Fit Girl Seattle, and the sugar detox she's launching on Monday. It's not too late to join, by the way! Read on below.

What got you into pursuing a healthy lifestyle? 

Four years ago I was almost 25 pounds heavier, struggling with food allergies and an eating disorder.  I think we all have issues with food.  Admitting the problem is stage 1.  Then you begin to heal and understand the deep rooted issues surrounding food.  I had had enough of food controlling every thought in my mind and signed up for nutrition school in 2012.  I went to heal myself and ended up finding a real passion for health.

How did Fit Girl Seattle come about?  

That's a great question Jess.  There was no plan, it just happened. I'm pretty "go with the flow" and loved how Fit Girl sounded.  My first company was walkntalkwellness, but decided it sounded grandma-y, whereas Fit Girl Seattle had a classy vibe.  I created Fit Girl classes in Upper Queen Anne, led my first retreat and am about to lead my second in April!  

Favorite workouts?  

MOST DEF booty barre + yoga.  FO' SURE. I love speed walking with some dirty rap and hip hop in my ears, dancing to Beyonce, Drizzy and Chris Breezy.  Basically if there's good music, a group class and sweat, I'm there.

What are some of your most necessary self-care routines?

Sleep is a BIG one for me. If I don't get enough sleep I get vertigo.  I drink tons of water all day long. You'll almost never see me without a water bottle.  I eat greens in at least 2 meals every day. I know they are key to vitality and energy. Chocolate is a daily must. Movement. Every day. Writing. I have to work my ass off to stay uplifted, my mind likes to bash me, so I listen to a lot of motivating speeches, videos and read books that empower me to believe in my worth.

When you aren't training, what are some of your hobbies?  

Music. I could spend hours and hours on making playlists. I also LOVE to create sugar free desserts.  As a former sugarholic, I love creating recipes that people like me can eat and feel good about.  I love taking walks with my hub and eating his delicious food. I hang out with my family as much as I can.  I've developed a new addiction to face timing with girlfriends!!  Last fave thing is writing and receiving cards.

Who inspires you?

I'm inspired by people who are kind, people who stand up for what they believe in and people who empower others to SAY YES to their dreams.  That being said, Oprah, Beyonce, Ellen, Marie Forleo, Rachel Feldman, JL Chiemingo and Elizabeth Gilbert. Those are my big inspirations for living authentically with kindness and sensitivity.

What are you currently reading?

Year of Yes by Shonda Rhymes!! She's a crack up. Also, a dirty little novel I ordered off Amazon, but can't remember the title and I haven't started yet, so maybe I shouldn't include this. 

Any favorite songs currently on repeat?

• Bryson Tiller "Don't"

• Beyonce "Formation"

• Rihanna + Drake "Work"

• The Weeknd/Future "Low Life"

• Wale/Tiara Thomas "Bad"

• Meek Mill "Gave Em Hope"

• Mali Music/Jhene Aiko "Contradiction"

Tell us about your upcoming sugar detox & why we should join?

It's FREE!  It'll definitely get you in a healthier direction after VDay and you'll get free dessert recipes that you won't feel guilty about.  Plus, you'll be the first to hear about my new program.  Perhaps a bonus will be revealed, but you'll have to join the other 50+ people starting on Monday to find out!

What else are you most looking forward to this year?

Ya know Jess, I'm really looking forward to this detox, my Spring Retreat AND teaching health classes at Tacoma Community College starting in April.  I want to help people get off the diet roller coaster, it's such a miserable place to be and no one deserves to be on it.  I'm also looking forward to working with other successful, health-minded soul sisters who want to join forces to empower women.  

LOVE what you do, WHO you are and WHAT you represent Jess. Thank you!!!

The feeling is so mutual, my dear. Learn more about JJ, Fit Girl Seattle and the Sugar Detox at fitgirlseattle.com.

Read all of my interviews here.