Thrive at Any Age
Thriving at Any Age with Nutrition and Yoga: Insights from Persephone Agricola
Introduction to Persephone Agricola and Her Wellness Philosophy
Persephone Agricola is the driving force behind The Plantiful Yogini, where she combines her love for nutrition, yoga, and holistic wellness. Not only does she manage the office, provide nutrition advice, and teach yoga at Boggs Chiropractic, but she also leads her own business focused on helping others live healthier lives. With certifications as a holistic nutritionist, plant-based nutrition specialist, and a certified life cycle celebrant (crafting personalized ceremonies since 2008), Persephone brings a unique mix of skills to her work.
Her approach to wellness goes beyond physical health. Persephone believes life’s purpose is something each person creates, not a fixed destiny handed down by fate. This viewpoint inspires her clients to put meaning and intention into their own lives.
Persephone’s roles and certifications at a glance:
- Office Manager, Nutritionist, and Yoga Teacher at Boggs Chiropractic
- Owner of The Plantiful Yogini
- Certified Holistic Nutritionist
- Plant-Based Nutrition Specialist
- Certified Life Cycle Celebrant
You can learn more about her work and get inspired to start your own wellness journey by visiting The Plantiful Yogini website or following her on Instagram and Facebook @theplantifulyogini.
“I believe we create the meaning in our lives.”
Understanding that wellness is a personal journey shaped by experiences and choices, Persephone encourages living authentically and embracing each phase with openness.
Embracing Age and Life’s Different Chapters
At 49, Persephone feels she is living her best life, a bold statement that challenges common societal expectations. Women, in particular, face constant pressure to look and act younger. The beauty industry and cultural norms often make aging seem like a problem rather than a gift.
During their podcast conversation, Janice pointed to examples like Martha Stewart, who rose to fame at 41, proving that success and influence can come at any age. This challenges the idea that our 20s or 30s are the only times to make meaningful progress. Life is rarely a straight path. Persephone’s own story includes early marriage, divorce, career shifts, and returning to finish her bachelor’s degree at 36.
Lessons from Life’s Stepping Stones
- It is okay not to have everything figured out early on.
- Each job or experience builds towards future opportunities.
- It is possible to live “many lives” through different chapters.
- Adversity often leads to strength and growth.
Societal Ageism Myths
- Women must peak in youth to be valuable or successful.
- Older age means decline without possibility for growth.
- Life’s purpose must be discovered early and remain fixed.
Persephone’s life proves these myths wrong. She embraces ongoing learning, new career paths, and increased self-awareness, showing that age can bring freedom, confidence, and joy.
The Role of Yoga in Persephone’s Wellness Journey
Persephone’s first serious encounter with yoga came around age 30. Back then, it was difficult to find affordable training, unlike today where online options make it more accessible. Yoga became much more than exercise; it was a tool for mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical strength.
Top Yoga Benefits According to Persephone
- Improved flexibility and physical strength.
- Enhanced mental clarity and focus.
- Emotional balance and stress reduction.
Yoga also ties closely with her nutrition coaching. Both practices focus on nurturing the body, improving overall wellness, and fostering mindfulness.
Nutrition as a Foundation for Thriving at Any Age
Persephone’s path toward nutrition began at 21 when she walked into a vegan coffee house and read a booklet titled Why Vegetarian? This sparked an ethical awakening. Growing up in a family involved in butchery and farming, the choice to stop eating meat was not easy, but it felt right.
Her journey evolved as she and her husband opened a vegetarian restaurant in 2008, which quickly shifted to a primarily vegan menu because of demand and her growing understanding. This experience revealed how much she needed to know to serve the vegan community well and deepened her commitment to nutrition.
Science-Based Nutrition Philosophy
Persephone decided to pursue formal studies in nutrition to cut through the myths and conflicting advice often circulating online. Regardless of personal choices, she seeks scientific evidence to guide her coaching. The evidence led her to support a whole foods, plant-based diet as the healthiest option, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and minimal processing.
She warns against “junk food veganism,” which mimics unhealthy eating habits but without animal products. Instead, she advocates for nutrient-dense eating, sometimes called a nutritarian approach, meaning each calorie consumed is packed with nutrients.
There is even a free Daily Dozen app to help track daily intake and make sure you are covering these bases.
Hormones, Aging, and Their Impact on Nutrition
Hormonal changes during perimenopause introduce new challenges to managing nutrition and wellness. Persephone shares her own experience with fluctuating appetite and cravings caused by hormone shifts. Alcohol, for example, can trigger hot flashes differently depending on its type. She notes tequila causes symptoms for her, while bourbon does not.
“Hormones suck, especially when you lose them.”
These changes demand a mindful approach to eating. Awareness of triggers and adjusting diet accordingly helps reduce discomfort.
For a detailed guide on customization and coaching, visit The Plantiful Yogini.
Building Community and Relationships on the Path to Wholeness
Persephone credits much of her strength to the people around her; her husband, friends, and even her cats. As an extrovert, social connection is a vital source of energy and support.
She also stresses the importance of respecting other people’s beliefs and choices. This mindset applies to nutrition, politics, and lifestyle. Listening to understand rather than respond can reduce conflict in a divided society.
Tips for Open Communication and Respect
- Listen fully before responding.
- Accept differences without judgment.
- Recognize everyone has a unique story.
- Embrace empathy even when disagreeing.
“I respect that, mine is different, but I still respect where you’re coming from.”
This approach helps build a healthier environment for everyone to thrive.
Where to Connect and Learn More About Persephone Agricola
To explore more about Persephone’s work and get personalized coaching, visit her website at PlantifulYogini.com. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook @theplantifulyogini for daily inspiration, tips, and updates.
Persephone’s story and approach offer valuable insight into how nutrition, yoga, and mindful living can help anyone thrive at any age. Be sure to subscribe to Media Rebel Unplugged for future episodes where Persephone may share even more about her expertise.
Did you miss the podcast episode featuring this conversation? If so, turn in here.
Media Rebel Unplugged offers honest conversations with leaders and business owners like this to support you on your path to wellness and personal growth. Join us every Tuesday for new episodes.