Barbara Hazelden's interest in healthy living began decades ago, during her high school and college years. Always a non-smoker, she also adopted a vegetarian lifestyle for health and ethical reasons. Today, her dietary regimen essentially remains the same, although she recently banished gluten from her menu as well. Barbara does, however, continue to enjoy her dark chocolate every day. During the past few years, Barbara has also been working to simplify her personal life. She has gradually been gravitating toward a minimalist lifestyle, clearing out excess furniture and dust magnets from her house, and removing mental cobwebs that could keep her from moving forward. As a previous Livestrong.com writer, she welcomes the chance to again contribute to the company's healthy living-focused mission.