I’ve been reflecting on the wellness habits that truly made a difference for me in 2025, and I’ve rounded up the ones I’m intentionally bringing with me into 2026. I have quite a few to share, so this post focuses on the core habits I rely on most—the ones that feel sustainable and make the biggest impact on my day-to-day life.

Morning Light

I’m not perfect at this, but getting early morning light helps set my circadian rhythm and regulate cortisol, which makes me feel calmer, more energized, and helps me sleep better. Basically, I’m more ~regulated~ throughout the day. This is one of those simple habits that nearly every expert agrees is actually important.

Food & Water Before Caffeine

I definitely don’t do this daily, but eating and hydrating before caffeine helps keep my blood sugar steady and cortisol lower, so caffeine feels supportive rather than anxiety-building.

Savory Breakfast

Starting the day with a savory, protein-forward breakfast keeps my blood sugar steadier throughout the day, which means fewer cravings and more even energy instead of spikes and crashes. It’s also great for hormone balance!

Calls & Meetings While Walking

This is a big one for me, since calls and meetings make up a large part of my workday during the week. I think much more clearly when I’m moving instead of sitting and staring at a screen. It’s also far better for my nervous system—I feel completely fried after a full day on Zoom. Everyone knows I’m camera-off unless I’m meeting new people I’ll be working with.

Cooking & Buying Local

I have a busy social life and eat out often, but the difference I feel in my body when I cook at home is massive. I prep a lot of protein, rice, and veggies and freeze everything so I always have something ready to eat. I also buy fresh, local produce and proteins at the farmers market. I’m not militant about food, but I like feeling good—and I feel my best when I’m eating home-cooked meals.

Movement

I’ve always struggled with consistency when it comes to working out, but at 40, it has to be non-negotiable. In 2026, we’re locking it in—who’s with me? My goal is two Pilates sessions and two strength-training sessions each week. Sometimes, discipline is just another form of self-respect.

Reading

I’m pretty good about not mindlessly scrolling too often, but I’m human—I get sucked in sometimes. For me, it just fries my brain, and then I’m not as effective at work or in other parts of my life. Instead of only reading at night, I’m making a habit of reading during breaks instead of reaching for my phone.

Meditation

For years, I meditated simply to feel calm. Now, I meditate to observe the thoughts that shape my reality and to work on my perception and connection to myself and the world around me. Calmness, reduced reactivity, and contentment can be byproducts of meditation, but the real benefit for me is gaining a deeper understanding of what drives me—and the ability to detach from it.

Sauna

Regular sauna use triggers heat-stress adaptations that improve circulation, support cardiovascular health, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, leaving me feeling calmer, clearer, and sleeping better. It also supports muscle recovery and detoxification.

Sleep

One area I don’t struggle with at all is sleep—the best beauty, cognitive, and anti-aging tool there is! Of course, life happens, and sometimes my sleep gets compromised, but I make it a priority to get 8 hours every night.