MAGNOLIA AESTHETICS AND WELLNESS
  • HOME
  • WELLNESS PROGRAMS
  • BLOG
  • NEWSLETTER

Harmony & Glow
A Magnolia Wellness Blog

Libido, Metabolism & Vitality: What Your Sex Drive Reveals About Your Health

3/18/2025

0 Comments

 
This month’s blog dives into the powerful connection between libido, metabolism, and overall well-being—because your sex drive is more than just desire; it’s a key indicator of health. Learn how hormonal balance, metabolic health, and lifestyle factors impact libido, why low desire can signal deeper imbalances, and what you can do to restore vitality.

Keep reading for expert insights and real solutions to help you feel your best—inside and out!

Beyond the Bedroom:

Why a Healthy Libido is a Sign of Overall Well-Being

Picture
Libido as a Window into Your Health
Many people think of libido as just a reflection of sexual desire, but in reality, it’s a key indicator of overall health. If your sex drive has taken a backseat, it may be your body’s way of signaling that something is off—whether it’s hormone imbalances, metabolic health, stress, or even sleep quality. 

At Magnolia, we take a whole-body approach to wellness, helping you uncover the root causes behind changes in libido and supporting you with personalized care.

The Connection Between Libido & Metabolic Health
Your metabolism and libido are more closely linked than you might think. When your body is in a state of balance—hormonally, nutritionally, and metabolically—your libido is more likely to be strong. But when something is out of sync, desire can diminish.
  • Blood Sugar & Hormones: Insulin resistance, blood sugar imbalances, and inflammation can throw off estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol levels—hormones that play a key role in sexual health.
  • Weight & Energy: Carrying excess weight, especially around the midsection, can contribute to hormone disregulation, fatigue, and sluggish metabolism—all of which can impact libido.
  • ​The Role of Micronutrients: Nutrient deficiencies (like zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins) can affect mood, energy, and hormone production, all critical for a healthy sex drive.

Libido as a Reflection of Energy, Mood & Vitality
Think of libido as a barometer for how well your body is functioning. When things are working optimally, you feel vibrant, energized, and connected to yourself and your partner. When they’re not, libido is often one of the first things to decline.
  • Fatigue & Stress: If you’re constantly drained, it’s no surprise that intimacy feels like a low priority. Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can suppress testosterone and estrogen, reducing libido.
  • Mental Health & Mood: Anxiety and depression can significantly impact desire, and in many cases, so can certain medications used to treat these conditions.
  • ​Inflammation & Chronic Conditions: Conditions like PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, and autoimmune disorders can all play a role in dampening libido. Addressing underlying inflammation and root causes can often help restore vitality and desire.

What to Do When Stress & Lifestyle Factors Are Affecting Your Intimacy
If you’re experiencing a drop in libido, the good news is that there are many ways to support your body and restore balance.
  • Addressing Hormonal Imbalances: If estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone are out of sync, personalized medical guidance can help bring them back into balance.
  • Optimizing Nutrition & Movement: Fueling your body with nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods and engaging in movement that feels good (without overdoing it) can improve metabolic health, energy, and libido.
  • Managing Stress & Sleep: Prioritizing stress management and getting quality sleep (at least 7–9 hours per night) is crucial for regulating hormones and improving overall well-being—including libido.
  • Seeking Holistic Support: Whether through hormone testing, functional medicine, or a personalized metabolic reset, Magnolia’s approach helps you uncover the root causes and find solutions that work for your body.

A Whole-Body Approach to Feeling Your Best
Your libido isn’t just about intimacy—it’s a reflection of your overall health. If you’ve noticed shifts in your desire, energy, or mood, it’s worth digging deeper. At Magnolia, we take a holistic approach to wellness, helping you uncover the root causes behind these changes and guiding you toward solutions that support your whole body.

At Magnolia, we recognize that every body is different, and that means every approach should be different too. We offer a variety of solutions tailored to your unique situation, ensuring that your care is as individualized as you are. Whether you’re looking for support through comprehensive lab testing, Magnolia's 12-Week Metabolic Reset, our Perimenopause & Hormone Optimization Program, Libido Program, supplements like Mixhers, and beyond, we have the tools to help you feel your best. Our goal is to provide a space where you feel heard, seen, and never dismissed—because your health deserves to be taken seriously.

Ready to get started? Book a consultation today and take the first step toward feeling your best.
book a consultation

Michelle's Soapbox

The Medical Gaslighting of Women’s Sexual Health

Too many women walk into their provider’s office, muster up the courage to talk about their declining libido, and leave with nothing but a dismissive response. "That’s just aging." "It’s normal." "Try to relax." Sound familiar?

Low libido is often waved away as an inevitable part of getting older, as if women should just accept the loss of connection, energy, and vitality as their new normal. But here’s the truth: Libido is not just about sex—it’s a sign of overall health, and when something feels off, it is off.

The dismissal of women’s sexual health concerns isn’t just frustrating—it’s harmful. It leaves women feeling unheard, unsupported, and stuck without real solutions. At Magnolia, we refuse to accept that narrative. Your concerns are valid, and they deserve more than a brush-off.

Your Symptoms Are Telling a Story—We Listen
If your libido has tanked, your body is trying to tell you something. Maybe it’s hormonal shifts, chronic stress, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies. Maybe it’s a combination of factors. Whatever the cause, you deserve a provider who will take the time to find out, not just tell you to "deal with it."

This is where the right approach makes all the difference. At Magnolia, we take a whole-body perspective—because a healthy libido isn’t just about one hormone or one quick fix. It’s about balance, vitality, and you feeling your best.

Real Solutions, Not Dismissals
If you’ve ever been told to “just relax” when you know something is off, we see you. And we’re here to help. Whether it’s optimizing hormones, addressing metabolic health, or supporting your nervous system, our approach is built on science, personalization, and most importantly—listening to you.
​

Your health, your vitality, and your libido deserve to be taken seriously. If you’re tired of being dismissed, let’s change the conversation.​
With Love!
Michelle

Nurse Practitioner & Founder, Magnolia
Book A Consultation

Michelle's Ride Or Die

Mixhers

Picture
Photo credit: mixhers.com

As a women’s health practitioner, I’m always seeking products that truly support women’s health—and Mixhers delivers. That’s why I’m thrilled to offer this all-natural supplement line at Magnolia! Formulated specifically for women, Mixhers supports hormone balance, energy, libido, and hydration.
I first discovered Mixhers on my bi-annual retreat in Utah, where I had the opportunity to meet the founder and hear firsthand how this company is revolutionizing women’s health. Their mission aligns so closely with what we do at Magnolia—providing real, effective solutions tailored to women’s unique needs.

I love that they’re clean, effective, and actually taste good—because let’s be real, if it doesn’t taste good, you won’t stick with it. Here are a few of my favorites (also available at Magnolia!):
  • Menopause - Supports hormone balance and alleviates common menopause symptoms.
  • Hertime PMS - Helps reduce bloating, mood swings, and discomfort during your cycle
  • Libido - Formulated to naturally enhance desire and hormonal harmony.

Why Mixhers?
  • Hormone Friendly - Formulated with clinically studied ingredients to support optimal hormone function. 
  • Highly Absorbable - Liquid delivery for accelerated nutrient uptake and maximum absorption. 
  • All Natural - Clean ingredients sourced from nature. Free from hormone-disrupting chemicals, additives, and fillers.

If you’ve been looking for a natural way to support your body, Mixhers is worth trying. Let’s chat about which one might be the best fit for you at your next visit!
Here’s to Feeling Your Best!
​Michelle
​
Nurse Practitioner & Founder, Magnolia
Order Mixhers
Book An Appointment
Picture
0 Comments

Radiance at Every Stage: Hormones, Habits, and Skin Confidence

1/21/2025

0 Comments

 
This month’s blog dives into three transformative topics to help you feel confident and radiant.
First, discover how perimenopause affects your skin and learn expert tips to adapt to its changing needs. Next, rethink New Year’s resolutions with a focus on sustainable habits that truly stick. Finally, explore why facials and a simple, effective skincare routine are your ultimate go-to for healthy, glowing skin. ​
Keep reading for insights and inspiration to support your wellness journey!

The Perimenopause-Skin Connection: 

​How Hormonal Changes Impact Your Glow

Picture
Perimenopause is a time of transformation, bringing unique changes to your body and mind—and an incredible opportunity to embrace your evolving beauty! As you navigate this phase, your skin tells part of the story, reflecting the shifts happening within. While much of the conversation around perimenopause focuses on internal symptoms like mood swings or hot flashes, its effects on your skin are just as significant.

How Hormonal Changes Affect Your Skin

During perimenopause, fluctuating hormone levels—especially declining estrogen—can profoundly impact your skin. Here’s how:
  • Dryness and Dehydration: Estrogen helps maintain the skin’s moisture levels. When levels drop, your skin may feel dry, tight, and less able to retain hydration.
  • Loss of Firmness and Elasticity: Estrogen also stimulates collagen and elastin production. With declining levels, the skin’s support structure weakens, leading to sagging and fine lines.
  • Thinner Skin: Reduced collagen levels can cause the skin to become thinner and more delicate, making it more prone to damage.
  • Dullness: A slower cell turnover rate means dead skin cells accumulate on the surface, resulting in a lackluster complexion.
  • Increased Sensitivity: Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, leaving it more prone to redness and irritation.
If your once-plump skin is starting to feel thinner or drier, know that you’re not alone. These changes are part of a natural process, and there are ways to nurture your skin through them.

Our Inside-Out Approach to Skincare
Hormonal changes, lifestyle, and daily habits all influence your skin’s health. At Magnolia, we address both internal and external factors to uncover the root causes of skin concerns—like hormonal imbalances, stress, or nutritional deficiencies. By looking beyond the surface, we create personalized, holistic plans that nurture your skin and overall wellness, empowering you with effective tools to achieve lasting results.

Solutions for Glowing Skin: Our Recommended Treatments
As your skin changes, regular, targeted treatments can help you feel refreshed, rejuvenated and GLOWING while addressing these challenges head-on. Some of our top recommendations include:
  • Magnolia Glow Facial: Deeply hydrates and revitalizes your skin with a powerful infusion of Vitamin C, Glutathione, and Hyaluronic Acid. This luxurious treatment uses 24k gold-tipped micro-needles to address dryness, dullness, and fine lines caused by declining estrogen. Optional Dysport/Botox can further refine pores and create a "glass skin" finish.
  • Magnolia Advanced Facial: Combines deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and targeted treatments to address concerns like aging, dullness, or dehydration. Tailored products from GlyMed Plus and Prakash Organics leave your skin refreshed and glowing.These treatments are designed not just to pamper but to deliver visible results, helping your skin adapt beautifully to this phase of life. We recommend regular facial treatments every 4-6 weeks to maintain your skin’s health and ensure long-lasting results.

Why Magnolia?
At Magnolia Aesthetics and Wellness, we understand that navigating perimenopause can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help you embrace this season with confidence and care through personalized solutions that address your unique needs.


Whether you want to address surface skin concerns with treatments like our Magnolia Glow or Advanced Facials, or explore a deeper understanding of your body through our Perimenopause Optimization Hormone Program, our holistic approach ensures your skin thrives in harmony with the rest of your body.

We combine advanced testing, targeted treatments, and compassionate guidance to help you feel radiant and empowered. Let us support you on your journey to glowing, healthy skin and overall wellness.

Book your Magnolia Glow or Advanced Facial today, or schedule a consultation to explore our hormone program and take the next step in your perimenopause journey.
Book An Appointment

Michelle's Soapbox

The Truth About New Years Resolutions

​Every January, many of us feel inspired to make changes. We set resolutions to improve our health, routines, or goals, hoping for a fresh start. While these intentions come from a place of hope and motivation, they can sometimes feel overwhelming when life gets in the way.

Rather than focusing on drastic overhauls, I encourage a gentler, more sustainable approach. True transformation happens when we focus on small, meaningful shifts that add up over time. As I often remind my clients, "Wellness is rooted in balance—it’s about creating a life that supports your goals without overwhelming you."

Why Quick Fixes Can Feel Overwhelming
It’s tempting to think we need to change everything all at once. But extreme routines—like intense workout schedules or cutting out entire food groups—often lead to burnout. That doesn’t mean resolutions are bad; it’s about how we approach them. Wellness is about balance and finding what works for your life, every day.


For example, imagine you’re in Italy, enjoying delicious pasta, wine, and cheese. It’s an incredible experience to savor, but would you want to eat like that every day? Probably not. Balance means embracing indulgences when they feel right while also returning to habits that nourish and sustain you long-term.  Each year, I visit the Movara Retreat to reset and realign my habits. It’s an experience that pushes me physically while giving me the space to refocus on what matters most. I leave feeling stronger, both in body and mind, with a renewed commitment to the small, daily practices that help me thrive. That’s what balance looks like to me.

Start Small, Think Big
Real change happens in the small, consistent actions we take daily. Begin with habits that feel manageable and meaningful:
  • Commit to 15 minutes of movement a few times a week.
  • ​Add a glass of water to your morning routine.
  • Practice a few minutes of deep breathing or mindfulness daily.

A wellness lifestyle isn’t about rules or restrictions. It’s about living in a way that supports how you want to feel—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s about enjoying the pasta and wine but also knowing when to return to habits that make you feel your best.

A Compassionate Start to the New Year
As we approach the New Year, there’s no need to overhaul your life in one big leap. Instead, ask yourself:
  • What small change could make a meaningful difference in how I feel?
  • ​How can I build on that habit in a way that feels good to me?

Sustainable habits don’t just create change—they create a lifestyle. And that’s the ultimate goal: a life that supports your well-being every single day.

With Love!
Michelle

Nurse Practitioner & Founder, Magnolia

Michelle's Ride Or Die

Facials & Simple Skincare

Picture
Let’s get one thing straight—taking care of your skin isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Regular facials and a simple, clean skincare routine are my ride-or-die because they keep your skin healthy and glowing. 

Here’s the truth: your skin deserves the same attention you give to your hair, nails, or anything else in your life. Think about it—it’s what you present to the world every day. Yet, so many of us push it to the bottom of the list. One thing I prioritize investing in is facials—here’s why they’re a must for me:


1- Skin Health: 
Facials hit the reset button—removing dead cells, unclogging pores, and creating the perfect foundation for glowing, healthy skin.

2- Anti-Aging Power: 
Derma-planing and peels are game-changers. They smooth, brighten, and soften fine lines, giving you that lit-from-within look.

3- Winter Glow & Hydration: 
Surviving a Minnesota winter isn’t easy on your skin. Facials replenish lost moisture and revive your complexion when you need it most.

4- Self-Care: 
Between work, kids, and relationships, life can be overwhelming. Facials aren’t just about looking good—they’re about carving out time to feel good in your own skin.


​But here’s the catch: even the best facials won’t deliver lasting results without a consistent daily routine. Aggressive treatments like peels and derma-planing can work wonders, but without giving your skin the regular care it deserves, the results won’t stick.

It doesn’t take a 10-step routine or the trendiest products—just keep it clean, simple, and consistent. You deserve to feel radiant, confident, and proud of your skin. Make facials and at-home care your norm, not your exception. Prioritize your face like the powerhouse it is.


Your skin will thank you—and so will your future self. 

Happy Glowing!
Michelle
Book An Appointment
Picture
0 Comments

Metabolic Health Strategies for Women Navigating Perimenopause

12/18/2024

0 Comments

 
This season, Magnolia invites you to prioritize wellness and vitality with strategies that support your body and mind through life’s transitions. From exploring metabolic health during perimenopause to discovering the transformative benefits of the Magnolia 12-Week Reset, our curated insights are designed to empower you!

Thrive Through The Holidays:

Metabolic Health Strategies for Women
​Navigating Perimenopause

Picture
The holiday season is filled with joy, gatherings, and indulgent treats, but it can also bring challenges for maintaining metabolic health—especially during perimenopause, when hormonal fluctuations can impact energy levels, weight management, and overall well-being. Here are six evidence-based strategies to help you navigate the holidays with confidence, balance, and vitality.

Holiday Strategies to Maintain Metabolic Health

1. Embrace Balanced Indulgence
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed—and yes, that includes indulging in your favorite festive treats! Instead of restricting yourself, aim for balance. Pair indulgent foods with nutrient-dense options like lean proteins, healthy fats, or fiber-rich vegetables to stabilize blood sugar and support your energy levels. For example, savor a slice of pie alongside a salad packed with spinach, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette.

Mindful eating is key: chew slowly, savor each bite, and allow yourself to enjoy the moment. Research shows that when we approach food without guilt or rigid rules, we’re less likely to overeat and more likely to feel satisfied both physically and emotionally.

2. Plan Ahead For Success
The holiday hustle can disrupt even the best routines. Planning ahead helps you stay on track without feeling deprived. Start your day with a nutrient-packed breakfast—like a smoothie with protein powder, spinach, and berries—to support your metabolism and prevent cravings later.

If you’re heading to a party, eat a small, balanced meal beforehand to avoid arriving overly hungry. And don’t underestimate the importance of hydration! Dehydration can mimic hunger and exacerbate fatigue, so keep a water bottle handy and consider sipping herbal teas or infused water for variety.

3. Manage Holiday Stress
Stress is one of the biggest disruptors of hormonal balance, and during perimenopause, its effects can feel magnified. Elevated cortisol levels from stress can lead to weight gain, especially around the midsection, and impact sleep quality.

Incorporate stress-management practices into your daily routine. Simple activities like a 10-minute meditation session, a brisk walk in the fresh air, or even journaling can lower cortisol levels and improve your mood. Apps like Calm or Headspace can provide guided meditations, while deep breathing techniques like the 4-7-8 method are quick and effective ways to reset.

4. Move with Joy
The holidays are busy, and sticking to a rigid workout routine might not be realistic. Instead, find ways to move that bring you joy and fit seamlessly into your day. Dancing at a holiday party, walking through a winter light display, or doing a quick yoga session at home are all excellent ways to stay active.

Movement not only helps manage stress but also supports hormonal balance and boosts your mood by releasing endorphins. During perimenopause, it’s especially important to prioritize activities that make your body feel good rather than focusing solely on calorie burning.

5. Prioritize Quality Sleep
With late-night gatherings and busy schedules, sleep often takes a back seat during the holidays. However, sleep is essential for metabolic health, hormonal regulation, and overall well-being. Poor sleep can increase cortisol and disrupt appetite-regulating hormones like leptin and ghrelin, leading to increased cravings and weight gain.

Create a bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. This might include dimming the lights, journaling, or taking a warm bath. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep quality. Aim for 7-9 hours of rest whenever possible to allow your body the chance to recharge.

6. Lean on Support
You don’t have to navigate the holiday season alone. Whether it’s leaning on friends and family for emotional support or joining a wellness program for guidance, having a support system can make a world of difference.
​

Consider enlisting the help of a healthcare professional or wellness coach who understands the unique challenges of perimenopause. They can provide tailored advice and accountability to help you stay focused on your goals. Online communities and local support groups can also offer encouragement and shared strategies to navigate this season with grace.
​

Take the Next Step with Magnolia

If you’re ready to take these strategies to the next level, we’re here to help. At Magnolia, we’re thrilled to introduce our
Hormone Optimization in Perimenopause Program—designed to help you tackle challenges like fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, and insomnia with a holistic, personalized approach.

This program is all about bringing your body and mind back into harmony, with tailored hormone therapy and practical lifestyle guidance to help you thrive—not just through the holidays, but well into the new year.


Want to learn more?
  • Book a consultation today and start prioritizing your health this holiday season & beyond!
  • Not ready to book? Download our free Wellness Reset Guide, for actionable tips you can use right away.
Let’s make 2025 a year of thriving together. Wishing you a joyful, balanced, and meaningful holiday season!
FREE Wellness Reset Guide
Book A FREE Consultation

Michelle's Soapbox

Embracing Joy & Balance this Holiday Season

The holidays are magical—a time for connection, celebration, and creating memories. But let’s not sugarcoat it: they can also be overwhelming. The stress, the over-scheduling, the constant tug-of-war between indulging in the season’s delights and staying true to your health goals—it’s a lot.

Here’s the thing: balance isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional. It’s about finding that sweet spot between saying yes to the joy of the season and honoring what your body truly needs.
​

Our bodies are already doing so much for us, especially during perimenopause—navigating hormonal shifts, managing energy levels, and adapting to the demands of daily life. When you layer on the emotional, physical, and mental challenges of the holidays, it’s no wonder so many of us feel stretched thin. But here’s the good news: we can approach this season with grace, not guilt.

So, what does balance actually look like?
It’s savoring your favorite holiday treats while giving your body the nourishment it craves.
It’s knowing when to say yes to joy and when to say no to preserve your energy.
It’s making rest as much of a priority as gift shopping and party planning.
It’s asking for help—because let’s be honest, none of us are meant to do it all.

Here’s the truth: Health is a long game. The holidays won’t make or break your wellness journey—it’s how you bounce back, reset, and return to your goals that matters most.

At Magnolia, balance is at the heart of everything we do. This holiday season, let’s make space for joy, protect your rest, and honor the incredible work your body does every single day. Because when you show up for yourself, you’re able to show up fully for the people and moments that matter most.
​

With Love!
Michelle

Nurse Practitioner & Founder, Magnolia
Book An Appointment

Michelle's Ride Or Die Product

Prakash Organics Unrefined Brilliant C & E Complex

Picture
Photo credit: prakashog.com

​If I had to pick one product to rave about this month, it would have to be the Prakash Organics Unrefined Brilliant C & E Complex. This little bottle of goodness has become a cornerstone of my skincare routine—and for good reason.

Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
  • The unrefined Vitamin C works wonders to brighten and even out my skin tone, leaving it looking refreshed and radiant.
  • Vitamin E delivers intense hydration, keeping my skin smooth and nourished, especially as the colder months set in.
  • It’s all-natural, vegan, and free of anything unnecessary, which aligns perfectly with my clean, holistic approach to skincare.

I love how seamlessly it fits into my daily routine—no fuss, just results. It gives me that dewy, makeup-free glow that makes me feel like I’m truly taking care of my skin, not just covering it up.

​If you’ve been searching for something to elevate your skincare game, this is it. Trust me, your skin will thank you!


Happy Glowing!
Michelle
Order C & E
Book An Appointment
Picture
0 Comments

    Michelle dewald, np

    Michelle, founder of Magnolia Aesthetics and Wellness, is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in primary care now specializing in aesthetics. Her passion lies in helping women achieve their best selves by enhancing their natural beauty in a realistic and subtle way. She adopts a conservative approach in her treatments, ensuring that the enhancements are organic and understated, helping her clients to look and feel naturally beautiful without appearing overdone. Her commitment extends beyond mere aesthetics, as she is deeply passionate about women's wellness, focusing on the health of their skin to bring out their inner radiance. Michelle is the go-to expert for women seeking to feel confident and naturally beautiful.

    ARCHIVES

    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024

    TOPICS

    All
    Hormones
    Libido
    Medical Weight Loss
    Perimenopaus
    Self Care
    Skincare

    RSS Feed

FOLLOW US
Proudly powered by Weebly
  • HOME
  • WELLNESS PROGRAMS
  • BLOG
  • NEWSLETTER