About Jill
A Life Nourished by Breath,
Food, and Curiosity
My Journey
My name is Jill, though for more than 20 years many people have known me as The Veggie Queen®. That name came to me unexpectedly—offered kindly during an introduction at a cooking class—and it stuck. At the time, it perfectly captured my work and passion as a registered dietitian, cooking teacher, cookbook author, recipe developer, and lifelong advocate for simple, plant-based food.
For decades, my work focused on helping people nourish themselves through what they eat. I taught culinary classes for 30 years at Santa Rosa Junior College, wrote cookbooks, explored pressure cooking long before it was trendy, and encouraged people to embrace vegetables, beans, and seasonal foods with curiosity and joy.
Just prior to the pandemic, I began a regular breathwork practice—almost by accident. I quickly fell in love with it. When the world
slowed and uncertainty set in, breathwork (along with yoga) became an anchor. It helped me stay grounded, deeply connected to my body, and surprisingly strong—physically, mentally, and emotionally. During that time, I made changes that felt natural and supportive, including giving up drinking and listening more closely to what my body needed.
In 2021, a friend said something that shifted everything: “Jill, you could teach whatever you want. I’m sure you’d be good at it.” That simple encouragement opened the door for me to begin teaching breath awareness. What I discovered was that many people—perhaps like you—were seeking a way to slow down, regulate their nervous systems, and access deeper parts of themselves. Breathwise Health grew from that realization, bringing together everything I’ve learned about nourishment, breath, and mindful living.
Guided by Experience, Curiosity, and Care
My Philosophy
I believe true wellness begins with the breath. You don’t need special equipment, a perfect routine, or even a quiet room—you always have your breath with you. From there, nourishment through food and supportive daily habits help create a foundation for a healthier, more balanced life.
My approach is simple, compassionate, and realistic. I’m not interested in rigid rules or perfection. Instead, I focus on small, meaningful practices that support the nervous system and help people feel more at ease in their bodies and lives. Breathwork, nourishing food, movement, rest, and curiosity all work together.
Think of me as your guide, your coach, and maybe even your friend. I’m here to help you work with your breath, your food, and your everyday choices—so you can feel more grounded, resilient, and fulfilled.
Fun Facts About Me
- I love foraging for mushrooms, sea vegetables, berries, wild weeds, and herbs—especially when I least expect to find them.
- I’ve practiced yoga for about 30 years and still can’t truly touch my toes in a seated forward bend (and that’s just fine).
- I’ve been a yoga model—harder than it sounds, because you have to look good without actually practicing.
- I’m part of the yoga and breathwork offerings at The Sea Ranch Del Mar sessions, something I never expected but deeply enjoy.
- I eat simply, seasonally, always plant-based, and gluten-free because my gut prefers it.
- I love fermentation—especially purple napa cabbage, red bok choy, and anything a little unusual.
- I decided long ago that wearing my natural hair was right for me—and I’ve never looked back.
- I tend to be ahead of the curve, and I’m happy to lead the way, even if not everyone understands it at first.
"You don’t need fancy equipment or a perfect routine. You just need a few minutes, a little awareness, and your breath. That’s where healing begins."
Jill Nussinow, MS, RDN
If you’re here, maybe you’re someone who values curiosity, simplicity, and care—for yourself and the world around you. I hope so. Let me show you how a single breath can help you slow down, reconnect, and support your life in meaningful ways.
