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More Than a Meal: Cooking, Connection, and Compassion

September 3, 2025 By Dominique Munday

More Than a Meal: Cooking, Connection, and Compassion

In my home, meals mean love, laughter, and togetherness. We gather, share food, try new flavors, and create lasting memories around the table. Cooking allows me to carry that tradition forward and continue building those connections. Cooking has always been more than just preparing meals; it’s a creative outlet and a way to connect with the people I love. I first came across the recipe I’m sharing today while on deployment, and it quickly became a favorite. Over time, I’ve refined it, added my own touches, and it has since become a staple in my kitchen.

Cooking and sharing meals is one of the ways I connect with my loved ones, but it also reminds me of the importance of balance and compassion when it comes to food and health. As a therapist, I’ve learned that not everyone has the same relationship with food. For some, it can be overwhelming, even painful. It’s important to remember that while food nourishes our bodies and our bonds, it can also be a source of struggle. Eating disorders affect an estimated 30 million Americans in their lifetime. They are serious conditions, and too often, society and the media have glamorized them, prioritizing outward appearances over health and true well-being. In reality, these struggles are dangerous, and behind every eating disorder is a person deserving of care, compassion, and healing. With the right support, recovery is possible, and every journey deserves to be met with empathy and understanding. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you are not alone, and help is available.

If you try this recipe, I hope it brings warmth and flavor to your table the way it has to mine. And if you’re facing challenges with food, may this also be a gentle reminder: there is hope, healing, and support waiting for you.

Recipe:

Ingredients

6 grape tomatoes (4 for sauce, 2 for rice)
4 Serrano peppers (charred)
½ medium white onion (divided: ¼ for chicken sauce, ¼ for rice sauce)
4 garlic cloves (3 for chicken paste, 1 for rice sauce)
10 chicken legs (skin-off)
2 limes (juice divided: 1 for chicken marinade, 1 for rice)
2 cups long-grain rice, washed and drained
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cube tomato bouillon
1 cube chicken bouillon
1 small bunch of fresh cilantro (reserve a few leaves for garnish)
1 avocado (sliced for garnish)
4–6 small flour or corn tortillas (optional, for serving)
Seasonings:
- Maggie seasoning (to taste)
- Black pepper (1 tsp, or to taste)
- Ground cumin (1 tsp)
- Dried oregano (1 tsp, rubbed between fingers)
- Salt (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Char the vegetables
Roast 4 grape tomatoes and 4 Serrano peppers until the skins are blistered and slightly blackened and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken legs dry.
In a mortar & pestle (or blender), grind 3 garlic cloves, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp oregano, and the juice of 1 lime into a paste.
Rub paste generously into the chicken, drizzle with Maggie seasoning, and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (longer if possible).

3. Fry the chicken
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan.
Fry chicken on medium heat until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside

4. Cook the rice
In another pan, heat 1 tbsp oil. Add 2 cups of washed rice and stir-fry until lightly golden.

5. Make the first sauce (for chicken)
Blend: 4 charred tomatoes, 4 Serrano peppers, ¼ onion, and about ½ cup water until smooth.
Return chicken to pan, pour sauce over, and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes so chicken absorbs flavor.

6. Make the second sauce (for rice)
Blend: 2 fresh grape tomatoes, ¼ onion, 1 garlic clove, tomato bouillon, chicken bouillon, and about ½ cup water until smooth.
Pour into toasted rice. Stir well.

7. Simmer the rice
Add 3.5 cups of hot water, juice of 1 lime, and a small bunch of cilantro (whole stems).
Season lightly with salt.
Cover with a tight lid and cook on low until rice is fluffy (about 20 minutes). Remove cilantro stems before serving.

8. Serve
Plate chicken alongside rice.
Garnish with fresh avocado slices and reserved cilantro leaves.
Serve with warm tortillas if desired.
This dish is flavorful, comforting, and perfect for bringing everyone around the table.

-Tajana President, Clinical Mental Health Therapist, NCC, APC

You are Enough, Just Because You are YOU!

July 28, 2025 By Dominique Munday

You are Enough, Just Because You are YOU!

In a world that often confuses self-worth with appearance, achievement, or social media “likes,” it’s easy to lose sight of one simple truth: your worth is not defined by any of these things—you are enough, just because you are YOU!

At Manna, we walk alongside individuals navigating eating disorders and mental health struggles through outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization care. Often, we see how distorted beliefs about identity can become deeply rooted. But we also witness something beautiful—how healing happens when people reconnect with the truth of who they are.

What is Self-Worth?

Self-worth is how you perceive your value as a person. Healthy self-worth is knowing that you are precious, not because of what you do or how you look, but because of who you are.

In the Bible, we are reminded over and over again:

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14

You were created with intention. No imperfection, label, diagnosis, or number on a scale can diminish your God-given worth.

Common Myths about Self-Worth

We are surrounded by a culture that tells us we are not enough. Daily, we are bombarded with messages about the need to be more, do more, and be different. But God’s truth speaks louder, if we’re willing to listen. We are enough just as we are.

Myth: “I’ll be enough once I lose weight.”
Truth: You are already valuable. Your worth isn’t measured by a number on a scale.

"Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7

Myth: “If I’m struggling, it means I’m weak.”
Truth: Struggle is part of the human experience, and God helps us and grows us through struggles.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

Myth: “I have to earn love and approval.”
Truth: You are already fully known and fully loved by your Heavenly Father.

"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" 1 John 3:1

How to Reconnect with Your God-Given Worth

When self-worth deteriorates, it is necessary to reclaim the truth about your worth; this is a process that takes time. Identifying, challenging, and changing faulty beliefs about your worth enables you to reconnect to the truth about who you are: you are AMAZING!

Here are a few gentle steps to begin:

Practice self-compassion.
Grace isn't just for others—it’s for you, too. Treat and speak to yourself with kindness and patience, just as you would treat your closest friend.

Renew your mind.
Each time negative thoughts arise, counter them with truth.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

Set healthy boundaries.
Your time, energy, and heart matter. Take time for self-care and do not overextend yourself. No one can pour from an empty cup.

Stay connected to others.
We are not meant to be alone, and healing happens through relationships with safe people and with God.

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2

You are Not Alone

If you’re reading this and struggling to believe you are enough, be encouraged. You are not alone in your pain, and you are not beyond hope. Whether you’re battling an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, or another storm, God sees you and loves you. And Manna is here to walk alongside you on your journey. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder or mental health concern, please reach out to our team. We are here to provide compassionate, Christ-centered care and support.

"For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10

-Christie Payne, LPC, RD, LD

The Importance of Staying Hydrated

May 28, 2025 By Dominique Munday

The Importance of Staying Hydrated

With summer just around the corner, it's more important than ever that we are hydrating our body with the right amount of fluid to keep us cool in the heat. But why exactly is staying hydrated important? How much water should I really be drinking? Can I only drink water to meet my fluid needs? Today we’ll be answering these questions and setting the record straight about hydration misconceptions!

Why Is Water So Important?

Water has a variety of essential functions in our body. Some of which include:

1) Regulation of Body Temperature - Water helps regulate body temperature through sweating and absorbing excess heat.

2) Nutrient and Oxygen Transport - Water helps carry the nutrients we eat and the oxygen we breathe to the necessary cells in our body.

3) Waste Removal - Water helps eliminate waste products through urination, sweating, and bowel movements.

4) Joint Lubrication - Water lubricates and cushions joints, protecting them from damage.

5) Maintaining Blood Pressure – Drinking enough water ensures your blood volume, or amount of blood, is enough, which helps regulate your blood pressure.

6) Digestion - Water is essential for digestion, helping to move food through the digestive system and prevent constipation.

7) Cognitive Function – Proper hydration supports brain function and cognitive ability.

8) Skin Health - Water contributes to healthy skin by keeping it moist and lubricated.

What Is the Right Amount of Water to Drink?

I’m sure we’ve all heard the classic advice of drinking 8 glasses of water/day, and while this is a great place to start, it's important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hydration. Several factors, such as your activity level, the climate of where you live, your individual health conditions, and whether or not you are pregnant or breastfeeding, impact your daily water needs.

Diet and wellness culture like to promote the idea that you can never drink enough water. However, this is not the case! Your kidneys are only able to process 4 cups of water per hour, so anything over this can place you are risk of water toxicity – a life-threatening condition.

Unfortunately, the symptoms of dehydration and overhydration are eerily similar, including headache, fatigue, and dizziness. While you may experience these symptoms and assume you are dehydrated, consider if you may actually be overhydrated before reaching for your water bottle. A good rule of thumb to determine if you are adequately hydrated is peeking in the toilet. If you are well hydrated, your pee will appear light yellow. Dark yellow pee typically means you are dehydrated, while clear pee can mean you are overhydrated.

What Contributes to My Fluid Intake Besides Water?

While drinking water is the best source of hydration, there are other ways to hydrate if water isn’t your jam. Teas, and specifically herbal teas, are great for hydrating and can make meeting your fluid needs more exciting! Most fruits and vegetables have a super high water content and can be a great tool to help you reach your fluid needs. Lastly, try adding fruits, such as lemons or raspberries, or flavors to your water to help boost its flavor. If you find yourself sweating frequently, consider adding an electrolyte packet to your drink!

Working With a Dietitian

Hopefully this blog post helped clear up any questions you had about hydration. If you are worried about the amount of water that you are drinking, and want to work on becoming more hydrated, consider working with a Dietitian who can help you create a plan based on your individual needs!

-Isa Porrazzo, Registered Dietitian

Confirmation Bias

April 3, 2025 By Dominique Munday

Confirmation Bias: “What is That?”

Going into April celebrating April Fools Day is like experiencing biased confirmation. People look to influence our thinking to match what they are saying to us, just to yell ”APRIL FOOLS”!

Confirmation bias means we seek out information that supports/validates our preconceptions based on our current beliefs and reject any information that challenges those beliefs.

There are 3 types of Confirmation Biases:

Biased search for information – We research information that supports our views, beliefs. (I love Google).

Biased Interpretations – We evaluate the data that supports our views differently than the data that challenges our views. (We lie to ourselves).

Biased Memories – We tend to be selective in how we remember experiences that are going to support our narratives. (Keeps stereotyping alive and thriving).

Our biases are influenced by:

Social Media Posts, Religious Practice, Family Patterns, Environment in which we live.

Explore and Learn the implications of how you are impacted!

“Confirmation bias is like a horse running a race with blinders on and slowing down just before the finish line assured that he is winning, just to come in second place.” JB

What are your confirmation biased blind spots?

-Jania Bailey-Boyd, MS

Mental Hygiene: Nourishing Your Mind As You Nourish Your Body

October 28, 2024 By Dominique Munday

In western culture, we often prioritize physical health while neglecting an equally vital aspect of our well-being: mental hygiene. Just as we practice personal hygiene to keep our bodies healthy, we must also engage in habits that nurture our mental health. For many, it may prove to be beneficial if they frequent mental health providers just as much as they frequent medical/physical health providers. Let's take a deeper dive into what mental hygiene is and how you can incorporate it into your daily life.

What is Mental Hygiene?
Mental hygiene can be referred to as "the practices and habits that promote mental well-being and emotional resilience". It involves maintaining a healthy mental state through self-care, mindfulness, positive thinking, and often times mental health treatment/therapy! By prioritizing mental hygiene, we can reduce stress, improve our mood, and enhance our overall quality of life.

Practices for Mental Hygiene

Mindfulness and Meditation: Allocate a few minutes a day to engage in mindfulness or meditation. This can help ground you, improve focus, and promote a sense of calm.
Connect With Others: While moments of being alone can be helpful and necessary, it is important to foster healthy relationships and connections with other people. Sometimes a small hug or a quick high five can end up being the highlight of one's day.
Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise can be a useful tool for mental health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or dancing, physical activity releases endorphins that boost mood and reduce stress.
Connect with Nature: Spending time outdoors can have a rejuvenating effect on our minds. Nature has a calming influence and can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your focus from negativity to positivity, enhancing your overall outlook on life.
Establish Healthy Routines: Create a daily routine that includes time for self-care, hobbies, and relaxation. Consistency can provide a sense of stability and control in our lives.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide valuable tools and support for maintaining mental hygiene.

Conclusion
Just as we brush our teeth, wash our hands, and visit our primary care doctor to maintain physical health, we must also take intentional steps to care for our mental well-being. By adopting practices of mental hygiene, we can cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling life. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body. A healthy mind leads to a happier, more vibrant life. So, start today—you and your mental health deserve it!

-Zemirah Griffin, Primary Therapist

My Extraordinary Journey as an Intern in the World of Clinical Therapy

February 19, 2024 By Dominique Munday

Becoming an intern is an incredible and intimidating experience. After years of studying and accumulating knowledge, everything I had learned suddenly seemed to disappear entirely, and I could feel the dreaded imposter syndrome kipping at my heels. However, completing my internship at Manna Treatment was an incredible spiritual journey and learning experience. I had the opportunity to work with a highly knowledgeable, patient, flexible, and kind treatment team. Every time I had a question, which happened quite often, I was fortunate to have people willing to take the time to teach me what I needed to succeed. I gained practical experience in mental health's legal and ethical aspects, initial client assessments, individual counseling, group counseling, community outreach, direct marketing, different therapeutic modalities, documentation, and crisis intervention.

The moment I stepped into Manna Treatment's doors, the staff greeted me with warmth, respect, and support. The therapists and staff I worked with treated me as part of their team from day one. They allowed me to learn, observe sessions, actively participate in and facilitate groups, and even personally handle client interactions under their guidance and supervision. This hands-on experience was invaluable and allowed me to truly understand the challenges and rewards of being a clinical therapist.

What amazed me the most during my internship was the wealth of knowledge possessed by the staff at Manna Treatment. They had a profound understanding of various therapeutic modalities and remained up to date-with the latest research and practices in the field. Whenever I had a question related to treatment approaches, client considerations, or simply clarifying a concept, they never hesitated to provide detailed explanations and share personal anecdotes that enhanced my learning experience.

It wasn't just their extensive knowledge that made the therapists at Manna Treatment exceptional mentors. Their patience and flexibility in teaching were incredible. They recognized that I was still learning and graciously tailored their guidance to my capabilities. No question was considered insignificant, and they always made sure I understood the reasoning behind their explanations. The patience and knowledge of the staff enriched my confidence and allowed me to grow as a person, intern, and clinical therapist.

Furthermore, the kindness and empathy demonstrated by the staff at Manna Treatment towards the clients left a lasting impression on me. They understood that therapy is not only about treating diagnoses but also about providing a safe space for individuals and families to heal and grow. Witnessing their compassion in action taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of establishing rapport, building trust, and creating a therapeutic alliance with clients. These principles have since become the foundation of my therapeutic approach.

Completing my internship at Manna Treatment was an unforgettable journey of growth and self-discovery. The experience provided me with a solid foundation and a unique perspective on the world of clinical therapy. The exceptional therapists, dietitians, and providers I had the privilege of working with imparted their vast knowledge and instilled in me the values of patience, empathy, and flexibility. I am forever grateful for their mentorship and their positive impact on my professional development. As I embark on my journey as a therapist, I carry with me the lessons and principles learned during my internship, ready to make a difference in the world and the lives of those I will help.

-Tajana Freeman, Therapist

Supporting Someone With an Eating Disorder

August 25, 2023 By Dominique Munday

Supporting Someone with an Eating Disorder

Eating Disorders really suck and are incredibly painful and difficult to navigate. They are not just difficult for the diagnosed individual, but for those around them too. Eating Disorders impact EVERYONE they come in contact with; no one is immune. Family members, friends, significant others, co-workers, roommates, etc. are all affected. I have personal experience to attest to this.

Living with or supporting someone with an eating disorder can be incredibly tough, and also incredibly rewarding as you watch them grow and heal. Hopefully there is a chance for you to grow and heal with them. Having compassion, kindness, and knowing how to help can make a huge difference in the life of your loved one. This blog is meant to help provide understanding and encouragement, as living with or supporting someone with an eating disorder can feel defeating and hopeless at times.

Here are some helpful tips:

1. Talk about it! Oftentimes people shy away from the subject for fear of upsetting their loved one or alienating them. Know that it’s okay to bring it up, ask questions, and talk. Let your loved one know you’re there if they need support or someone to talk to.

2. Encourage treatment. Eating disorders are among the deadliest of all mental illnesses. It is extremely difficult to heal from an eating disorder on your own accord, so encourage your loved one to seek out a treatment team, including a therapist, dietitian, primary care physician, and family therapist. Eating disorders are multi-faceted, and a multidisciplinary team is crucial to provide adequate care. Higher levels of care are also available, including Intensive Outpatient Programs, Partial Hospitalization Programs, Residential Treatment, and Inpatient Treatment.

3. Show them love. Eating disorders can make people feel extremely lonely and scared. Let your loved one know you care for them, no matter what.

4. Do not take over their life. Do not become the food police, the bathroom police, the gym police, etc. Individuals with eating disorders need to learn how to take control of their own lives and cope with their stressors in healthier ways. Doing this for them will not help. Providing accountability in these areas will help.

5. Learn. Knowledge is power. Taking the time to learn about your loved one’s symptoms and etiology shows you care. However, don’t overdo it or assume things; ask questions about their specific issues and struggles.

6. Remove any stigma. Individuals with eating disorders face enough stigma (i.e., why can’t you just eat?). Please do not become a part of it. Learn how to be accepting of your loved one without judgment to reduce their shame.

7. Be honest. People can tell when you’re being fake. If you’re scared, hurt, or worried, it’s okay to talk to your loved one with an eating disorder about it. They are not going to break from talking about feelings.

8. Remember that an eating disorder is not just about the food. Food manipulation or control is a manifestation of deeper, underlying pain and suffering. Although adequate nutrition is absolutely necessary for healing, eating disorders go much deeper than the food piece. It’s important not to only focus on food, but feelings too.

9. BE PATIENT. Eating disorders are extremely complex and therefore can take some time to treat and heal. Please be patient with your loved one and keep faith. Eating disorders are treatable with the right support team! Be their rock and hope when they lose it.

10. Take care of yourself. Last, but possibly most pertinent, is the importance of taking care of yourself in the process. Lean into your support system, practice your faith, continue your schedule and enjoyed activities, and if needed; seek your own therapist or support group.

Manna understands how difficult it can be to navigate these disorders, and we are here to help. Manna offers PHP, IOP, and OP services for the diagnosed individual, and individual, family, and group options for the family members/supports. We wish you all the best as you navigate this healing journey, and are here to help where we can!

-Kelsey Sander, LCSW, Director of Family IOP

LEARN MORE

Join Our Angel Society

December 7, 2020 By Genie Burnett

Join Our Angel Society Manna's Angel Society Of Donors Manna's Angel Society monthly donor program

Manna's Angel Society Of Donors

Manna's Angel Society monthly donor program is the best way to help those who are in need of treatment. With every donation, we are able to provide scholarships and treatment to those struggling with eating disorders and trauma based issues. We work all year long to provide excellent treatment, but we cannot do it without your help.

At just $19 per month, you can help change lives.

Every gift saves lives. Please make a one-time donation if you are not able to make a monthly commitment.

For more information please reach out to marketing@mannatreatment.com

My ED Recovery Mealtime Prayer

November 13, 2020 By Genie Burnett

Lord, thank you for this food in front of me.
May it nourish my spirit, mind, and body.
Relax my tummy and help me to breathe.
Quiet my ED voice, I ask that it leave.
My fullness is ok, my body can be.
My feelings are safe, let them flow through me.
I don't need to compensate, I don't need to move.
You say I'm enough, I have nothing to prove.
No matter my size, my body is a gift from you.
Like Manna in the desert, fill me like you do.

Ways to Donate to Manna Fund

October 3, 2015 By Genie Burnett

Ways to Donate to Manna Fund Since 2007 Manna Fund has been dedicated to "fill the funding gap" for individuals treating eating disorders. Manna Fund is a tax deductible 501(c)(3) non-profit and we focus on those needing the most immediate and critical level of care. Most people are unaware at the costs associated with inpatient and residential treatment. Scroll to see ways you can help.

Inpatient Treatment Costs (average treatment costs, not specific to any hospital)

One Month .... $30,000

One Week .... $7,500

One Day .... $1,000

Residential Treatment Costs (average treatment costs, not specific to any facility)

One Month .... $12,000

One Week .... $3,500

One Day .... $500

Optional Funding Costs (towards other Manna Scholarship Fund costs)

Psychiatric Consultation .... $250

Individual Psychotherapy .... $130

Group Psychotherapy .... $75

Gift Basket .... $50

There are three levels of donation programs available: Individual Sponsorship, Corporate Sponsorship and Manna Sponsorship. To ask questions about these programs please call (770) 495-9775 or email info@mannafund.org.

In addition, there are great ways to support Manna Fund by designating us with companies you use regularly such as Amazon and Kroger.

Amazon Smile - Designate Manna Fund with Amazon Smile and Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase. To register:

Visit http://smile.amazon.com.

Select "Manna Scholarship Fund, Inc."

Shop on Amazon.com (Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase to Manna Fund!)

Kroger Community Awards - Have a Kroger Plus Card (loyalty rewards card)? Support Manna Fund by going grocery shopping at Kroger (Kroger will donate a percentage of your purchase to Manna Fund). To register:

Visit https://www.kroger.com/communityrewards

Existing Plus Card users: "sign-in" with your current card to choose "Manna Scholarship Fund, Inc."

New users: select "create an account" if you are a new Kroger Plus Card user!